Restaurant Review – Chevin Golf Club
Times change and so that means businesses have to adapt with them. Golf clubs traditionally have been a pretty no go area for members of the public but all that has changed at Chevin Golf Club, and their latest development reflects that refreshing approach. Light, airy and up to date with the emphasise on friendliness, this is the name of the game for 2022.
We were invited by Manager Andy Mellor to sample the new menu and enjoy the updated decor and furnishings. We chose the best day of the year so far. Bright sunshine and a light breeze really highlighted the beauty of the surrounding countryside, with carefully tendered greens rising to the Chevin hills beyond. The Chevin Golf club rests in a sheltered hollow just on the outskirts of Duffield where beyond the trees the little electric train rumbles along adding to the ambience. Situated just off the main A6 it is easily accessible too.
So, what’s on offer? Fairways at Chevin Golf Club provides an excellent food and bar service seven days a week and you can choose to sit outside on the terrace which surrounds the conservatory restaurant, in the cosy Spike bar where walkers (and well behaved dogs) are welcome, or in the bright conservatory restaurant with views over the course.
On arrival we were welcomed by house manager Hollie Pace who has a wealth of experience in hospitality locally and head chef Tom Gaskin, who heads an efficient young team. Tom is a very capable young chef very much in tune with modern dining trends, set to establish a reputation for Fairways for its excellent food.
On our lunchtime visit we enjoyed a pleasant little complimentary appetiser presented on an edible spoon, of crab mousse with dill, and a Mediterranean inspired spinach cone with sun-dried tomato, attractively presented. As asparagus is in season my friend chose this as his starter, with a perfectly poached duck egg smothered in a rich Hollandaise sauce. I don’t quite know why but the distinctive flavour of asparagus is the perfect partner to duck eggs. The addition of slithers of home smoked salmon were very acceptable. My thinly sliced smoked salmon encased a very creamy mousse with dill, a Tempura prawn added crisp texture, and the granary bread a welcome base. The selection of starters can also be ordered as tapas, and the portions reflect this.
From the Gastro mains menu the chef has selected to offer a variety from traditional home-made pie of the day, fish and chips, lasagne: a favourite of my friend and so his choice, to herb topped rack of lamb. The latter was my choice, not the easiest dish as it needs a crispy topping yet succulent pink middle. Mine did accomplish this and I really enjoyed the jug of mint jus and generous swirl of pea puree. The separately served Dauphinoise potatoes were excellent. Sadly the portion was a little too large for me, but far better than being left hungry.
Creative to the finish, our desserts were a picture with surprises at every taste as the pictures will show.For me this is a little hidden gem, somewhere I can come to enjoy a light lunch with friends, or maybe a sandwich with a bowl of chunky chips, a mid morning breakfast or if time is short a coffee and pancake. Or a leisurely evening meal for those larger parties.
This beautiful setting lends it’s self to hosting your special event or function, and the best thing is that you don’t have to be a member, everyone is given a warm welcome, and the same hospitable service is extended to all. Our thanks to all for a most enjoyable lunchtime experience.
To view the menus visit
www.chevingolf.co.uk Chevin Golf Club, Golf Lane, Duffield, Derbyshire, DE56 4EE To book a table please Telephone 01332 840497
