Review: The Bowling Green Inn, Ashbourne
by Andy Darlington
If you fancy a bit of a Highland fling with some fine food, you should look no further than the Bowling Green. The pub restaurant has been given a steakhouse makeover and a subtle Scottish theme by its team of staff from across the border.
Tartan runners, granite placemats and candles adorn the tables and the menu features dishes such as Chicken Balmoral, and haggis as a side order. Parts of the pub date back to the 17th century and my friend and I were wooed by the oak beams, real fire and soft music, adding up to an atmosphere of pure relaxation.
Marston’s Pedigree was among the real ales on offer and it hit the spot as we ordered. My thick Scottish fillet steak was cooked just how I like it – well done yet tender and bursting with flavour. And the chips were the finest I have tasted – fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, rather like potatoes which have been parboiled before roasting.
My friend opted for the fish, chips and mushy peas. Fish is delivered fresh daily and tonight’s catch was haddock – thick, moist and fried in a crispy ale batter.
* The Bowling Green has two-for-a-tenner deals each weekday between noon and 5pm and serves Sunday roasts until late. It also has a beer garden and car park.