Did someone say rum and reggae? The Embankment in Bedford enticed a huge crowd of locals in last Friday with the promise of some ‘jammin’ and an exquisite Jamaican themed menu. So how did it taste?…
As soon as we arrived you could hear the sounds of Jamaica bursting through the doors and a Huge Crowd of people standing outside the venue (always a good sign). The Embankment is a much-loved spot in the very heart of Bedford, plus the location is divine as it looks out onto the River Great Ouse (but the clue is in the name).
The Embankment Hotel was built in 1891 and was renovated to reflect its heritage, but also to create a bubbly, inviting pub ambience. The atmosphere was great on the night with lots of dancing, drinking and the staff on hand were extremely attentive and friendly.
The normal menu was on offer which showcases: British meats from Aubrey Allen, Cotswold free-range white chickens and native fish options. They really do serve the good stuff!
To start I chose the warm crispy camembert with tomato chutney and rocket – let me just say WOW! I’m an avid cheese fanatic and can be quite fussy when it comes to an ‘acceptable’ camembert, but this was a HUGE portion and the taste of the tomato (obviously home-made) chutney and the stringiest cheese I’ve ever ate were simply beautiful (JA-MAKIN-ME-HUNGRY!).
For the main we opted for the Jamaican ‘special’ menu (especially as we’d come out for the occasion), this menu consisted of: saltfish and chilli, mutton and rice and my personal favourite – Native Lobster stuffed with corn.
As you may have guessed I opted for the native lobster which was delicious and cooked exactly to my taste. This is something that The Embankment are cooking specially throughout August on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturday – so get in quick! The lobster came out of the shell without any difficulty and simply melted in the mouth. It came alongside sweet potatoes and a tomato salsa. All of which complimented one another perfectly.
The Embankment is open Monday to Friday from 7am for breakfast, weekend breakfast service starts at 7.30am. Lunch is served from noon and hot food available all day. So whether you pop in for a prosecco or two, a lunch date or a special occasion, you won’t be disappointed.
For more information visit www.embankmentbedford.co.uk
