The newly refurbished French Pantry
French flavours are well represented right here in our foodie haven of Ludlow with two restaurants and a French baker. A few months ago, the French Pantry on Tower Street underwent both new ownership and a refurbishment.
Its new owners locals, Habib Malik-Mansell and David Newbold, added their own touches to the spot already known for its French cuisine. Speaking about his vision, Habib says, “David and myself have worked in the hospitality and catering industry for a few years – but this is the first business which we have owned ourselves. It’s been a really positive start and our changes to the business appear to have been well-received by both new and former customers, which is great to witness.” The pair have extended the restaurant’s hours from breakfast through to dinner and remain open for coffee and drinks in the afternoon. They are also putting the finishing touches on to a walled courtyard garden which will provide additional seating.
Malik-Mansell speaking of the new venture said, “We prefer a small menu…it changes daily according to what myself and David decide to cook each morning! We are continuing to offer the best of traditional French classics – such as French onion soup, confit duck and coq au vin, plus much more.”
French pastries
Matty at his market stall in Ludlow
Meanwhile we have French pastries to savour in Ludlow thanks to Mattieu (Matty) Wojas, who hails from France. Matty offers the best croissants and a selection of French pastries at the Ludlow Market on the Square. His stall, Matty’s Délices, is available on selected days throughout the week or you can find his pastries at Broad Bean on Broad Street.
Matty makes every single delicious item on his stall which he has only recently set up. His background in patisseries isn’t formal, he simply loves baking. He says he remembers time spent with his grandmother playing with fresh pastry as she prepared lunch but his skill has developed through reading and experimenting with different pastries.
Right now, he is in the midst of learning how to make lovely entremets such as bavarois, fraisie and foret noire which we cannot wait to sample. According to Mathieu, what drew him to Ludlow is its market and wonderful scenery, plus, he says it is reminiscent of French market towns in a Georgian way. Whatever it is we’re grateful Matty has found in Ludlow a place to call home.
…and, a French Bistro
Elliott’s at Dinham Hall is a new Brasserie style French Bistro headed by French Chef Olivier Bossut. Truly one of the Returned, Bossut headed up the kitchens two decades ago and came back to revive the restaurant.
Bossut is renowned for his interpretations of French dishes. A fine dining experience is to be expected with a menu that includes the classics and more modern twists. It’s on our to-do list at Let’s Go Ludlow and the last review that could be found about Elliott’s and Bossut was glowing.
Sharon Walters of Shropshire Star declares: “Olivier is renowned for his interpretation of French dishes with delicious twists on the classics. Dining at Elliotts in Dinham Hall continues his reputation. Without a doubt one of the best culinary experiences I’ve had recently. And I don’t give praise all that easily.”
There you have it, easy-to-find French experiences in Ludlow.