Review: The Punch Bowl, Crosthwaite (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Review: The Punch Bowl, Crosthwaite

9:02am Monday 20th February 2012 in Leisure By Emma Lidiard, Reporter

PERCHED within the rolling hills of the Lyth Valley the Punch Bowl, at Crosthwaite, is ideally located for keen walkers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Like a lot of eateries located in a rural setting this venue boasts, varnished wooden flooring, low beams, wooden tables, a cosy fire and a general homely atmosphere.

Its structure is divided between bar and restaurant – with rooms branching off to either side, creating a lively mood with diners sprinkled around.

It was really busy when my friend and I arrived, which made finding a seat more difficult. But after popping our heads into two rooms we found a cosy seat by a fire.

Being able to place our order did prove more challenging than finding a seat. After a good 20-minute wait I went up to the bar and told a very friendly young waitress what we had chosen.

For my starter my friend and I shared some whitebait (around £5:50). This was her idea, as I have never trialled this course before, but it is now one of my favourite dishes.

The crispy fish came in a large bowl and was served with a rich garlic mayonnaise that worked really well.

It reminded me of eating a bowl of chips but with the added bonus of the mild fishy flavour.

The venue served up generous portions so there was more than enough for both of us.

I decided for my main meal to go for something light - a smoked salmon sandwich (around £7). Disregarding my general health I ordered an extra portion of chips (£2.50) to go with the meal.

Unfortunately when the cruncky brown bread and finely cut salmon came out it came with crisps so by the time I had eaten the crisps, chips and whitebait I did feel rather over-full.

It was a tasty meal, served in a buzzing environment.