You will find Tierra Kitchen hidden away down a pretty backstreet in Lyme Regis. An unassuming little cafe type frontage and an understated interior belie what is probably one of the best vegetarian dining experiences that you will find in Dorset.
The restaurant is a dedicated vegetarian restaurant, which is such a welcome treat to a vegetarian, they offer a fantastic choice of dishes and there is no need to worry about asking what the ingredients are or what type of cheese they use - everything is suitable! The menu also caters for vegan and gluten free diets, both of which are indicated on the menu.
We had a booked a table for four for an evening meal. We were glad we did as space is very limited and every other table was full. Once shown to our seats by friendly staff we were offered bottled water and bread with olives. The water is filtered and chilled in house and although there is a small charge for this the restaurant donate the money to the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust. The bread was a delicious selection of handmade focaccia and artisan breads.
The evening menu offers a great range of dishes that I don't think you will find anywhere else, each dish is finished with a unique touch, served with delicate sauces and garnishes that make each one just that little bit more special. Although the menu is not extensive each thing is done to a very high standard, it would cater for most tastes, and it is probably sufficient for the size of the restaurant.
Starters include sweet corn and cashew croquettes with fine beans and mint jelly, and feta, raspberry and hazelnut salad - we shared these two between the four of us, so as not to ruin our appetites for the main course - and both were exquisite. The combinations of flavours worked wonderfully, and they were beautifully presented.
From the main course menu we chose: Applewood Cheddar Tarte Tatin, which was a puff pastry case filled with butternut squash and cheese, served with sauteed pak choi and a plum dressing; one of my party had the Spinach, Ricotta and Buckwheat Cannelloni, served with cheese, pickled cucumber, baby carrots and pineapple; and the other two opted for the Sweet Potato, Khol Rabi and Pine Nut Tortilla. We all ate every last drop on our plates - the finely paired combinations with individually prepared garnishes to complement each dish was a joy. It was all beautifully presented, absolutely delicious and a sheer delight to eat.
The wine and drinks menu gives a good choice with all wines being suitable for vegetarians, and some that are also suitable for vegans.
With a bottle of wine between us the bill worked out at around £25-£30 per head - main courses average at around £12, with starters at about £6. It was a little more expensive than we had expected, although by no means over-priced and, in my opinion, definitely worth it. The lunchtime mains are a little more reasonable and they offer a choice of omelettes, falafels, hummus, veggie sausages and sandwiches for around £7-£8.
The restaurant itself has a pleasant and relaxing ambience, with simple and subtle decor, and windows overlooking the river that runs through the town. Although it is quite small, this gives it quite a personal feel and makes you feel that the staff have time for you. The staff are friendly and helpful, but also leave you alone to enjoy your meal.
All in all it was a delightful dining experience and a very special treat. I am looking forward to my next visit - I might try the lunch menu next time.
The Dorset Vegetarians star rating: *****
Details: Tierra Kitchen
1A Coombe St, Lyme Regis, DT7 3PY
Tel: 01297 445189
Website: http://www.tierrakitchen.co.uk/
Thanks for sharing.
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