The Woolston Hop (Twisted Hop)

Mushroom Risotto

This month's outing (which is actually February's one, but with a short month we encroached on March) took us to the Twisted Hop - Woolston, or the "Woolston Hop" as it's referred to on the web.  The original Twisted Hop, of course, was in Lichfield Lane, now long gone after the earthquakes.  Envoking the rule to support re-opening venues, we turned up at the Woolston Hop at 12.30pm for a Saturday lunch. 

Garlic Prawns

Lovely airy space inside, with panels for soundproofing/acoustics, the new Hop has a nice vibe about it.  We decided, despite the grey day, to sit outside - which wasn't a bad choice given the sun started to come out and it wasn't cold.  There is a nice big gas fire out the back for winter nights in the outside seating.  There is also an upstairs seating area which is a nice option if you want to dine at night away from the noise and hustle of the main bar.

The menu is very concise - yet had enough choice on it.  2x Market Fish of the Day (served with morrocan spices, sauce and a chickpea salad), 1x Lamb Salad, 1x Mushroom Risotto and 2x Garlic Prawns were subsequently ordered.

Lamb Salad

Most of the table went for a cider accompaniment, although a Twisted Hop Pilsner was also ordered to go with the food.

Fish of the Day

The food was absolutely delicious.  I had the Lamb Salad which had a mediterranean feel with the salad, but the coated crunchy almonds were flavoured with star anise and added quite a different edge to it.  I would give it a good 4.5/5 for flavour.  Serving sizes were also substantial.

Service was excellent, with our host being very informative, helpful with pleasantly friendly demeanor.

Chocolate & Raspberry Torte

The desserts were enquired about and two partook in full dessert, with another two having ice-cream.

Funknstein Tart

All in all a very pleasant way to spend the afternoon of the  first Saturday in autumn, with a leisurely 2.5 hours of dining and chat.  I'll definitely go back.  The Twisted Hop also hosts numerous events, including a quiz, and upcoming events included a Jazz night and a Beer & Cheese evening.  I do feel with places like this, and The Brewery (part of the Hop family) in Wooston, the area is going to surpass Addington with venues.  

Well done to the establishment!