The Butcher’s Tap and Grill by Tom Kerridge

The last time I visited one of Tom Kerridge’s establishments, I gave it the lowest score since I started the channel back in November. This time, I visited his Butcher’s Tap and Grill in Marlow, Marlow is such a beautiful town, incredibly picturesque. The open-plan kitchen instantly caught my eye, showcasing the impressive selection of meats that made my mouth water.

Though the bar area was smaller than I expected, the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Plus, I was grateful for the complimentary tap water to keep me refreshed.

I loved the variety of starters on the menu, from creamy mac and cheese to zesty chorizo and crispy chicken wings. However, I set my sights on the main event—the “meat locker” section, which boasted an array of steaks, chicken, pork, lamb, marinated skewers, burgers, and even hot dogs. After much deliberation,

I ordered a bavette beef steak, cooked medium rare, with a drizzle of chimichurri sauce, paired with a portion of fries. The steak weighed in at 280 grams for £16.35, while the minted lamb skewer was priced at £12 which is quite a way above the average you would see.

I also ordered the Ed Gamble Comte burger, featuring a double beef patty topped with creamy Comte cheese, pickled red onion, crispy Parma ham, and black garlic ketchup, all for £18.50. The menu offered a range of draft beers, spirits, and wines, adding to the vibrant dining experience. Although I noted that the prices were a bit steep, I felt they were justifiable considering the quality and location.

When the food arrived, I admired the presentation. The bavette steak was beautifully seared, served alongside the vibrant chimichurri sauce, caramelised onion, and a crisp lettuce wedge. While the steak was tender and flavourful, I did find it slightly chewy— a characteristic of the bavette cut. The minted lamb skewer, on the other hand, was cooked to perfection, bursting with flavours that beautifully complemented the juicy meat.

I couldn’t wait to dig into the Ed Gamble Comte burger. The juicy patty paired with the rich cheese and the distinctive black garlic ketchup created a symphony of flavours. The toasted bun and crisp fries were the perfect accompaniments, making for a satisfying meal.

Reflecting on my experience, I felt that the prices matched the high-quality food and attentive service. I would rate the bavette steak an 8 out of 10, the lamb skewer a solid 9, and the Ed Gamble Comte burger an 8.5. My total bill came to £55, and I left feeling thoroughly satisfied, knowing I would happily return to this gem of a pub.