Affectionately known as The Dirty Duck by its loyal legion of local visitors, The Black Swan is a friendly village pub located in the heart of the historic Bristol suburb of Westbury-on-Trym. With the Wickwar Wessex Brewing Co. at the helm, The Black Swan’s new offering of wholesome British fare and real ale is sure to entice regulars and new visitors alike. We were delighted to be invited to sample the new menu that chef Liam Pitts has put together.
Upon arrival we were greeted by the friendly team and showed to a cosy table in the venue’s secluded dining area to the rear of the pub. As we ordered refreshing pints of Dartmoor IPA, we were pleased to overhear that the brand-new food offering has been well-received thus far. The pub previously only served meals at lunchtime and it’s clear that Liam’s hard work has paid off.
The new menu didn’t disappoint; each dish was homemade, attractively presented, packed with flavour and generously proportioned. The menu was concise and unpretentious, featuring flavoursome starters such as pork, apple and sage sausage roll with balsamic onion marmalade and a buttery mini pasty filled with meltingly tender beef and Bob ale, served with meaty gravy and garnished with dressed rocket and sundried tomato salad.
We also sampled the chilli cheese chips: a devilishly generous portion of crunchy steak-cut chips topped with sumptuous slow-cooked beef and pancetta chilli and melted cheese – the perfect side for those with large appetites, or an epic accompaniment to a couple of pints of an evening.
Whatever you choose to eat, you won’t go hungry. If you’re after a challenge, The Dirty Duck burger is something else. As it comprised all of my favourite burger toppings in one, I simply couldn’t resist. Think two 8oz beef patties stacked high with chilli, bacon, blue cheese and onion rings. For many, the measure of a good pub is its fish and chips. Boasting beautifully crisp Wickwar beer batter, the fish was soft and flaky, the chips well seasoned, and the accompanying crushed garden peas had the perfect hint of fresh mint. This is traditional pub food at its best.
The team ensures that everything is sourced locally where possible and the menu is due to change regularly to make the most of seasonal produce.
From the 9th of April 2018 the team will be launching a weekly Monday night curry club, with one of three homemade curries for £7.50 including naan bread and rice; every Tuesday you can enjoy a burger and a drink from just £10. Both offers are available between 5pm and 9pm. A fantastic Sunday lunch is available between noon and 4pm.
To stay up to date with the latest menus, offers, and events visit The Black Swan’s Facebook page.
