The Old Spot, Gloucester

This restaurant must be a gift to the handsome city of Gloucester containing as it does all the ingredients for a cracking venue. cis a chef with real lineage, has sunk his own money into this venture and chosen a memorable location.

The view of Gloucester Cathedral, handsome Mediterranean hued dining room and framed menus from the chef's previous employers provide a fine setting for high quality Franco Italian provincial cooking.

Lunch is offered as a set menu. A generous and seasonal starter of Wood Pigeon Salad with beetroot and walnuts scored highly whilst a Bruschetta of Aubergine with Ricotta Herbs and chilli jam was well presented but was overwhelmed by a heavy hand when applying the sweet chilli condiment.

Mains of Chicken Fricasse with sorrel bacon and tarragon dripped savoury flavour whilst a dainty little Leek and Montgomery Cheddar Pithiver proved the point that the very best vegetarian dishes are those where the lack of meat is an irrelevance.

The meal concluded with a fine Orange Cake with citrus fruit, mascarpone and Panna Cotta with Rhubarb and pistachio Biscuit.

This was our second visit, our first having been aborted once the 4 year old with us was refused any off menu choice more suited to a childs palate. This minor gripe aside The Old Spot offers genuine West Country fine dining at a regional price.