Set in the heart of the idyllic Essex countryside, I wondered whether we would get lost en route. Just a short drive from Chelmsford, through the meandering back roads of the Rodings, we arrived with no difficulty and no Sat Nav in sight!

We were greeted warmly by staff at The Spotted Dog, who made us feel welcome and comfortable from the moment we stepped through the door. Our table awaited us, so we sat down and began to nose through the delicious menu. I was surprised to see the restaurant was nearly full, considering it was a Thursday evening and we were out ‘in the sticks’. Then again, when it comes to good food…

The restaurant itself is classy and charming with an intimate, cosy feel about it. Everything within its stylish parameters has been created with thought and passion, from strong wooden features, complementing its neutral tones, right down to the distinctive silverware and thoughtful gesture of putting cushions on the seats – what a lovely touch.

With a delightful array of mouth-watering starters and mains to choose from the greedy devil in me was rearing its ravenous head. We opted for the Thai-style fishcakes served with cucumber, shallot, mango and mint salad along with the pigeon and black pudding combo to get our taste buds going. I wasn’t letting any of mine go to waste. Each mouthful was a treat and I couldn’t wait for my main meal to arrive.

I thoroughly enjoyed my choice of pork medallions with mushrooms, red wine and ementhal sauce, as my friend savoured her red mullet dish, accompanied by aromatic saffron tagliatelle.
The talent and effort of the chef were evident with the presentation of our meals and the wonderful, harmonizing flavours that encapsulated each bite. I was pleased, also, that our food was accompanied by a grand bowl of fresh and tasty veggies, cooked to perfection. If only I could make vegetables taste so good.

All the while, the table service remained attentive, yet discreet, allowing us to truly relax and take pleasure in our surroundings. After a few moments of allowing our stomachs to have a short breather, it was time to check out the desserts. We were full to the brim but couldn’t leave without sampling the sweet stuff. Naughty Simon and Anita had done it again – how could we ever choose? Bread and butter pudding with clotted cream (my favourite), coffee and Tia Maria cheesecake with Chantilly cream. My friend decided on the Baileys pannacotta while I could not escape the calling of the dark chocolate parfait with hazelnut ice cream and mascarpone mousse. Just perfect! The parfait was rich and chocolatey enough to satisfy my sweet tooth and light enough that I didn't need to undo my top button for extra room.

With two more satisfied and full-up customers, keen to return. The Spotted Dog has a dish to suit everyone’s palate, with extremely reasonable prices. The gracious staff and picturesque setting make The Spotted Dog a wonderful dining retreat for family, friends or to take that someone special. I am looking forward to the next visit.

www.the-spotted-dog-bishopsgreen.co.uk