The Encore Festive Launch Event

When you're a foodie like me Christmas is definitely the best time of year, so when I was invited by The Encore to review their festive menu I jumped at the chance! They are a local pub to me in Stratford Upon Avon right by the river avon and one I have actually reviewed before when they had an amazing refurbishment last year. This time the decor was extra glamorous with the addition of twinkly lights and a Christmas tree.


The evening kicked off at 7pm with an exclusive Christmas cocktail - festive Sipsmith Bramble Royale (£8.50), which is a spiced bramble gin drink topped with prosecco which is always my drink of choice when I go out for dinner. I weren't sure what gin and prosecco would taste like together but I can confirm it was delicious. They also had other festive drinks including a spiced mojito, festive pornstar martini, or espresso martini and mulled wine or cider all under £9 which i think is really reasonable for limited edition drinks.


We were then taken to our table where we were treated to the ultimate three course classic festive dining experience (£27.95). The tables were all set for Christmas with crackers, little xmas trees, candles and santa hats a plenty.

Along with the three course classic menu, The Encore offer a four course indulgent festive menu, with a glass of prosecco on arrival, a choice of premium dishes and luxury chocolate truffles to finish for £34.95. And for an extra £15 you can also upgrade to their five course extra special festive menu, with a glass of MoÑ‘t & Chandon Champagne on arrival, rustic breads and olives, a choice of premium dishes and a cocktail of choice.


For starter I opted for the deep fried brie in panko breadcrumbs with a spiced fruit & sloe gin chutney and my fiance Blake chose the seared scallops served with crisp pancetta and minted pea purée. Both were very delicious and the cheese for me melted in my mouth. And I know that will not be the last bit of cheese I eat this Christmas because I love it!


For main I couldn't wait for Christmas day to have turkey and luckily for me it was on the menu, served with fluffy beef-dripping roasted potatoes, a honey mustard duvet and pork & clementine stuffing. Plus not forgetting the red wine gravy, vegetables and bread sauce.

Blake had the maple pork belly and pig cheek, served on dijon chive mash, cavolo nero, crisp prosciutto and a red wine & sage jus. 

Both dishes were a decent size and tasted amazing, I even ate my sprouts which makes a change for me.


Even though we were both super full after two previous courses we couldn't say no to dessert which included caramel creme brulee for Blake without the biscuits as he is gluten free and warm chocolate brownie with Belgian chocolate sauce, honeycomb ice cream and a brandy snap crumb for me. Both were the perfect desserts to round of a lovely three course christmas meal at The Encore.


If you want to try out The Encore's festive menus they are available until 30th December so there is still plenty of time to try out their wonderful festive food and drinks.

What do you love most about Christmas food?

Liz x

*The meal and drinks were gifted free of charge but I was in no obligation to post.

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