## Starling Restaurant Review: A Culinary Journey with a Touch of Magic in Esher, Surrey
If you’re searching for a dining experience that’s both innovative and enchanting, look no further than Starling, the newest culinary gem to grace the landscape of Esher, Surrey. This restaurant, which opened its doors in August, is a symphony of earthy elegance and mouth-watering creations that will leave you wanting more.
At the helm of this culinary masterpiece is Chef Nick Beardshaw, formerly of London’s acclaimed Kerridge’s. Beardshaw brings his award-winning talent to Starling, showcasing his signature dishes and innovative culinary vision. The menu is a testament to his skill, offering a delightful journey through flavors and textures that will captivate your senses.
My recent Sunday afternoon visit to Starling was an absolute delight. My boyfriend, Owen, and I were warmly welcomed by general manager James Shaw, whose knowledge of the menu and impeccable service set the stage for a memorable dining experience. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in an ambiance that felt both sophisticated and inviting. The restaurant’s décor is a blend of rustic charm and modern elegance, creating a space that is both cozy and stylish.
Our culinary journey began with a selection of tempting starters. We shared the steak tartare hash brown with black garlic, a symphony of textures and flavors that danced on the palate. The crispy exterior of the hash brown gave way to a luxuriously dense interior, topped with whipped bone marrow and thinly sliced steak. This was followed by the truffle cheese crumpets, which were an absolute revelation. The irresistible aroma of truffle, the crispy exterior, and the dense crumpet were a perfect combination of savory and decadent. We couldn’t resist finishing the entire plate.
We then moved onto the Pigs Head, which was far from the traditional roast hog. This dish was a symphony of pulled pork, with a crispy outer layer that yielded to a surprisingly smooth and almost creamy interior. It was a dish that left us wanting more.
Naturally, we couldn’t leave without trying A Moon Shaped Pool, Chef Beardshaw’s signature dish that has earned him accolades on the BBC’s Great British Menu. This dish is a visual and culinary masterpiece. The pearly surface is melted away with a Thai sauce, revealing marinated cucumber and hand-dived Orkney scallops underneath. The scallops, adorned with Exmoor caviar, were unbelievably fresh and wonderfully spongey. This dish is a perfect example of Chef Beardshaw’s ability to create a dish that is both intricate and comforting. The futuristic presentation hints at the complexity of the flavors, while the use of familiar ingredients ensures a sense of comfort and familiarity.
Our main courses arrived next. Owen chose the Himalayan salad aged beef rump, served with Yorkshire puddings and horseradish cream. The beef was perfectly seasoned, with thick, sizzling fat on each slice, and the Yorkshire puddings were light and fluffy. My dish, Creedy Carver duck with neatly dolloped cherry ketchup, was equally impressive. The duck was perfectly cooked, melting in the mouth at the first bite. The duck croustillant added a satisfying crunch, while the cherry ketchup provided a burst of sweetness and tang. We also indulged in a generous selection of side dishes including large roast potatoes, garlic roasted hispi cabbage, and cauliflower cheese made with Westcombe cheddar. The garlic roasted cabbage was a standout, with a crisp outer layer drizzled in garlic sauce that added a delightful flavor to the dish.
For dessert, I couldn’t resist the iconic Balloon Girl dish, a clever and playful interpretation of Banksy’s famous artwork. The sweet cheesecake was light and fluffy, complemented by a slightly sour, glossy exterior. The chocolate torte girl silhouette was a delightful touch, and the unexpected surprise of popping candy added a fun twist to the dessert. We also sampled the strawberries and cream choux bun, encased by strawberry and champagne jelly. The jelly was wonderfully natural and flavorful, pairing perfectly with the light yet crispy bun, filled with cream and berries.
To conclude our culinary journey, we enjoyed a ‘Freezer’ Gin Martini, featuring Hampton Court Gin and an olive nestled at the bottom of the glass. This sophisticated slow sipper was the perfect way to end our meal.
The Starling experience was truly unforgettable. This unique bistro is a must-visit for anyone looking for a culinary adventure in Surrey. With its innovative dishes, enchanting ambiance, and impeccable service, Starling is a shining example of what fine dining should be. Make your reservation today and discover the magic of Starling for yourself!