New Autumn Menu at The Maynard

[AD] The Maynard is a beautiful boutique hotel that marries contemporary sophistication with the relaxed, rustic charms of a traditional country hotel. This Thursday they launched their new autumn menu, full of fresh, seasonal flavours. I was delighted to be invited to the launch evening, along with a number of other local food bloggers.

I’d previously reviewed their delicious Sunday lunch menu so knew I was in for a treat. However, I hadn’t been back to The Maynard since they’d had their refurbishment so was intrigued to see what had changed.

The refreshed décor provides a real sense of place. There’s an abundance of rural charm and the cosy, comfortable restaurant reflects The Maynard’s dedication to showcasing the best of the Peak District, as does it’s new menu that continues to support quality local suppliers.

New Autumn Menu

Bursting with fresh, seasonal flavours, The Maynard’s new menu begins with a tantalising range of starters, including twice-baked cheddar cheese soufflé served with Hartington stilton sauce; hot smoked salmon mousseline with celeriac remoulade and pickled cucumber or pheasant and chicken terrine with prosciutto and spiced blackcurrant chutney served
with seeded bread.

However, (having clocked the dessert options) we proceeded straight to the mains. I’d never tried pheasant before, but as soon as I saw the description for The Maynard’s version, I knew this was the place to try it.

I wasn’t disappointed. A generous portion of pheasant, tightly wrapped in deliciously salty pancetta served on top of the most divine truffle celeriac purée, accompanied with grilled leeks, braised red cabbage and a rich blackberry pheasant jus. Oh my days – it was incredible!

My plus one opted for home-made venison ravioli with chorizo and sage sauce and grated parmesan, a dish that has been so popular it’s been on the menu ever since The Maynard opened in 2020.

For dessert I chose peach and ginger cheesecake served with raspberry sorbet. I love ginger in any shape or form, but it worked exceptionally well in this dessert, its warmth and hint of spice perfectly balancing out the sweetness of the peach cheesecake. Absolute perfection!

Since it was her birthday, (and on recommendation of Executive Chef, Adrian Gagea) my companion indulged in the Grindleford Gourmand, a delightful selection of miniature desserts from the menu, served with either an espresso, a glass of fizz or dessert wine. I’d done the same on a visit to the sister venue, The George – it’s the ultimate treat and an excellent way to deep dive the dessert menu. We all heartily recommend!

Something that stood out for me on the menu was the breadth of choice for vegetarians, vegans and gluten free options with allergy information being marked really clearly on the menu.

Incidentally, both of my choices were gluten free. The Managing Director, Rob Hattersley, is coeliac, so not only are allergies taken especially seriously by the team, but many of the dishes have been adapted to be naturally gluten free without impacting the flavours and textures to those who aren’t.

Executive Chef Adrian Gagea

After dinner we had the pleasure of meeting Longbow’s Executive Chef, Adrian Gagea. It was fascinating hearing his backstory, from professional sportsman to climbing the ranks through his culinary career which includes working under Raymond Blanc.

Gagea’s passion for quality, seasonal and local ingredients was evident. All the produce is fresh and sustainably sourced from trusted local suppliers. For instance, meat is sourced from New Close Farm in Over Haddon, less than nine miles away, where they raise and nurture their own livestock through traditional farming values.

I loved hearing the stories behind the menu development. In addition to this warming autumn menu, the Christmas celebrations sound really very special indeed.

In short, The Maynard is a gorgeous place to relax and enjoy some exceptionally good food and drink in the heart of the Peak District. It’s exactly the sort of place my husband and I would choose for date night – or the perfect place to catch up with friends and family.

Go for:

Exceptionally good dining with great, friendly service in a prime Peak District location. The autumn menu is an absolute feast for the senses, showcasing warming, seasonal ingredients prepared with passion and flair. What’s not to love?

Find out how to get 20% off the new autumn menu for a limited time.

Details:

The Maynard, Main Road, Grindleford, Hope Valley, S32 2HE

Private car park (enter registration number at the tablet at reception) or Grindleford Station is a short walk away.

Dog friendly in the bar area. Water bowls and treats available.

Several sets of steps to navigate. Leave the pushchair in the car. Baby changing facilities are at the top of the stairs next to the Chatsworth Suite (accessible by lift).

Longbow who own The Maynard also have a sister venue, The George in Hathersage. Although both venues have successfully retained their unique charm, if you enjoy one, you’ll love the other! Look out for the Ashford Arms opening early next year.

What else is there to do in the local area?

The Maynard Grindleford is perfectly located for exploring Padley Gorge and the Longshaw Estate both of which are managed by the National Trust and both lovely places to hike, bike or climb.