A VILLAGE pub restored to its former glory has won recognition on an exclusive list of the nation’s best.
The Roebuck Inn has been named in this year’s Estrella Damm Top 100 Gastropubs – for the third time.
The Grade II listed inn dates back to 1708 and is the only pub in Cheshire featured on the prestigious list.
The esteemed awards celebrate the highest calibre ingredients, culinary excellence and innovation.
The Mobberley pub in Mill Lane was transformed by husband and wife Tim Bird and Mary McLaughlin after being closed for four years.
“We wanted to create a petit hotel and bistro in an old English inn,” said Tim.
“It had been closed for four years and had a history of bedrooms in the 1900s. We took it back in time.”
An Estrella Damm spokesman said: "This is a fantastic pub set in an amazing area and led by a breathtakingly talented group of people and owners.
"The pair focused on creating a petit hotel and bistro atmosphere within a classic old English inn."
In 2016, the couple breathed new life into the 300-year-old property, adding six boutique bedrooms, each one named after their favourite grapes, Grenache, Picpoul, Pecorino, Bobal, Malbec and Verdejo.
Their bistro menu features a mixture of Eastern and European dishes as well as traditional British favourites.
“We serve classic bistro food that is comforting,” said Tim, who believes the recipe for success if that staff work together as a team.
“Our chefs have cooked with consistent intensity and style for years.
“We have a great team of chefs who work brilliantly with front of house and that harmony makes it special.
“It’s about coming up with dishes that intrigue on one hand and delight on the other.
“The flavour of the food must stand out.
“Our best seller is tempura monkfish.”
Spiced lamb meatballs, sauteed king prawns pil pil and wild mushroom ragout are just some of the sumptuous little dishes on offer.
Slow cooked venison bourguignon and truffle and artichoke ravioli are among bigger meals to tempt your tastebuds.
“We offer small plates and main plates,” said Tim.
“Some people like to share six or seven small plates in a tapas style environment. Others prefer a small plate and main plate each.
“The nice thing is there are no rules, you can mix it up and just enjoy food that comes out of the kitchen.
“The menu offers a fusion of classic bistro dishes and innovative dishes.
“We’ve got a team that has been solid for a long time. They’ve done a great job.”
A ‘pub hub’ shop set up to support the village during the pandemic is still as popular as ever.
Staff provided food and drink, plants, a bakery, wine shop and hamper store throughout all three lockdowns.
“The shop is very important to us to look after the Mobberley community” said Tim. “We’re still doing everything including festive hampers.”
Takeaway fish and chips are served on Fridays and ale, beer and wine are available every day.
Winning this top award means a lot to the team.
“We are really delighted," said Tim.
"It’s a hell of an achievement to be recognised and be the only pub in Cheshire in the top 100.
“It’s amazing.”
For more details visit roebuckinnmobberley.co.uk
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