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Punch Bowl Inn
(off A5074, 3 miles south of
Windermere, Cumbria) (01539) 568237. This pub is quite easy to
find. Crosthwaite is near Kendal and Windermere. The revitalised Punch Bowl Inn
stands on an unclassified road between Kendal and Windermere. The area around Crosthwaite
is delightful, the Lyth Valley is particularly beautiful during damson blossom time.
Inside, there is an endless number of rooms which includes a balcony. There is
wall-to-wall carpeting adding a touch of luxury to what might seem rather Spartan
surroundings. Framed and signed menus from some of Europe's top chefs suggest that
something gastronomically serious is going on here. The real ales are good and plentiful,
on at the time were; Theakston Best, Jennings Snecklifter and Black Sheep Special Bitter.
The chef/proprietor Steven Doherty once worked at Le Gavroche which makes his cooking
wonderful. The prices are not too steep either and you don't have to wear a tie to get in.
The Punch Bowl Inn is a very easy-going pub. The food is rustic but sophisticated.
Dishes available at the time were garbure béarnaise, cod bonne femme and chicken
schnitzel. There is hot goats' cheese salad and roasted beetroot and button onions,
roasted tuna steak cooked in sesame oil with a soy and ginger sauce accompanied by
whole-wheat noodles. Desserts range from tarte Tatin to expertly crafted floating islands.
Food is served 12-2 & 6-9. On Sunday there is a special lunch menu which provides
outstanding value for two or three courses. There are also 20 wines available. There is
particularly good wheelchair access. For summer there is a patio and a no-smoking area.
Music is off too. There is accommodation here; three smart rooms with all facilities @
£23 - £30. Rating.
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