It was always going to be a good idea. Take an established venue, bring in the team from a super successful local rival and turn the whole thing around to make it zing! And that is just what has happened with Flourish at Farleigh Road, just off the A36 between Bath and Frome.
For anyone who has visited Flourish at Glenavon Farm in Saltford, you’ll be used to the excellent products, top level service and very tasty meals on offer, as well as regular events that help to make the venue such a success.
Well some of the Flourish magic dust has now been sprinkled over its new venue at Farleigh Road, meaning that it now offers the same warm welcome, top products and excellent meals. It’s no wonder that the car park was almost full during our midweek visit for lunch!
There have been some mighty impressive changes to the interior at Farleigh Road, which means that the kitchen and dining area is way bigger than before. During our visit, this was just as well, as the dining area was busy with visitors of all ages, including several tables of mums and children, with one even taking the chance to celebrate a 40th birthday with friends.
With the grey, drizzling ghost of winter paying a visit outside, it was lovely to be seated close to the venue’s log burner fire, which helped to keep the whole place just the right side of toasty. With no time to wait (how is it that when you’re with children, there’s always somewhere else you have to rush on to next?), we were soon comparing the Today’s Special menu with the regular offerings.
For me it had to be the chicken, spinach and smoked bacon linguine, served in a rich cream sauce and topped with parmesan (£18.50). My wife, meanwhile, prefered a hummus, roasted Mediterranean vegetables, pesto and rocket sandwich, with a side of coleslaw, salad and crisps (£12.95). As for drinks, I’ll leave you to guess who had the small glass of Malbec and who preferred the cup of tea…
While the food was being prepared, Farleigh Road bubbled with conversation, while old friends caught up and mums expertly kept their toddlers entertained with one hand while negotiating a caramel latte with the other. Fortunately, high chairs are available.
When the food arrived, I immediately knew that I wouldn’t need dinner that evening. The linguine serving was big enough for two, with a gorgeous smoky aroma making it immediately enticing. And how right I was, with the rich cream and perfectly prepared pasta making an excellent backdrop for the chicken breasts and bacon. Winter food par excellence.
My wife’s sandwich, meanwhile, was impressive – really the epitome of bread-built royalty. Each part was so clearly super fresh and top quality, while most importantly, it tasted so good.
Despite the buzz and popularity of the place, the busy staff were just wonderful – attentive and keen to help out, while remaining relaxed and engaging.
When we had clearly finished our meals, the waiter seemed quite concerned that I hadn’t finished off every mouthful, asking if everything was OK. It was all excellent, I replied, I just wanted to leave a little room for a pud.
And I’m glad that I did. My chocolate chip cookie dough sundae, served with warm vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce (£7.50) was one of those puddings that is bound to bring a smile to your face. Presented in a pint glass complete with a handle, it was served complete with a long spoon so that you can scrape around the bottom to get every bit of goodness out.
All-in-all we really enjoyed our visit to Farleigh Road. With plans afoot for events and activities coming later in the year, it could soon become another local favourite.
