Two Exmoor restaurants have been named in today’s announcement by Michelin Guide to have retained their stars.
Congratulations are in order to Mark Dodson and his team, amongst them Olivier Certain, at the Masons Arms in Knowstone who held their star yet again – 17 years, and not out!
(Photo by Andy Francis)
MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View
Husband and wife Mark and Sarah Dodson run this pretty thatched pub in a secluded little village. It was built in the 13C by the masons who constructed the nearby church and exudes plenty of rural charm. Have a drink in the cosy beamed bar or lounge then dine beneath a Grecian ceiling mural in the bright rear dining room, where the views over Exmoor’s rolling hills are fantastic.
The food is more sophisticated than you’d expect to find in a pub, with a concise seasonal menu of attractively presented dishes firmly rooted in British and French classics. Cooking is refined and flavours are pronounced and assured; Mark has plenty of experience and employs the finest local produce to full effect. Service is charming and attentive and a perfect match for the food.
Congratulations are also in order to Thomas Carr who retained his star at 1837 in Ilfracombe.
MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View
Thomas Carr is a skilful and experienced chef who understands his guests and the area well. Local fish is his forte and he serves it in a multitude of different ways, carefully selecting the accompaniments to enhance rather than dominate the star ingredient of each dish. The well-judged, perfectly balanced menu reflects both the region and the seasons: you might find mackerel, monkfish or bass alongside juicy Creedy Carver duck, with some playful desserts to follow.
The building, in the heart of town, was formerly a police station, and the restaurant’s name is a nod to the year it was constructed. Dark colours and an impressively high ceiling set the tone and the exposed stone walls are hung with seafood prints; there’s also a sweet little anteroom. Endearing service completes the picture.
Exmoor Food Fest 