A charming inn filled with lip-smacking dishes and enchanting interiors, writer Camille Allcroft enjoys dinner at The Boxing Hare in the idyllic Cotswolds
Nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds surrounded by picturesque countryside, The Boxing Hare is a cosy inn serving fresh and seasonal menus from experienced restaurateur Antony Griffith Harris, his partner Stacey Elder and their chefs, husband and wife team Nick and Kate Anderson.
We went along recently to sample the menu, firstly settling in for a pre-dinner drink in the intimate bar area, where a wood burning stove and plush velvet sofas create a welcoming ambience.
The Boxing Hare prides itself on an extensive selection of fine wines, craft ales and gins and we sipped a rose Collagin and tonic by the fire before our meal.
The Food & Drink
Beyond the bar area lies the restaurant, where a candlelit table awaited us and we perused the menu before settling on a starter of twice baked cave aged cheddar soufflé which packed a punch of rich cheese, while spinach added a lighter element.
On to main courses and there is a choice of comforting classics such as the dry aged steak burger, alongside fine dining inspired dishes including local venison with salt roast beets and port jus.
I settled on the monkfish scampi, an appealing twist on the pub favourite of scampi & chips, served with heaps of fresh salad, string chips and sauce gribiche.
Fans of steak will be right at home, they take their steaks seriously here and there is a dry – ager onsite, where beef is aged to perfection for 70 days. Choose from 10oz Rib-eye, 8oz Fillet or the 30oz Cote de Boeuf to share – served with a choice of sides including triple cooked chips and tempura onion rings.
We declined dessert on this occasion, despite the temptations of iced peanut butter parfait and warm chocolate fondant, but we extended the meal with a coffee to soak up the atmosphere for a little longer.
The Wordrobe Verdict
Visitors to The Boxing Hare can expect to be charmed by the excellent food, warm hospitality and relaxed atmosphere – in the winter take a seat by the fire and in summer opt for the garden, to enjoy sweeping vistas of the Oxfordshire countryside.
Make it happen
Where: The Boxing Hare, Banbury Rd, Swerford, Chipping Norton OX7 4AP
How: Please phone 01608 683212 or visit theboxinghare.co.uk to make a booking.
Words by Camille Allcroft, writer.
