A taste of Proven̤al will arrive in the home counties later this month will the launch of La Rive in Cobham, Surrey. It takes over the former site of La Capanna (RIP), an Italian restaurant better known for its charming medieval setting Рwhich vaunts a delightful terrace and beautiful riverside location Рthan its haute cuisine.
That may be about to change though as the venue has been bought by Simon Rand and chef Eric Payet, a duo who may not be known to many – yet. They have found success locally with The Hare Bar and Grill in nearby Lingfield which they launched at the end of last year and Payet’s impressive CV and French training lead us to hope the Provençal cuisine will have a smack of authenticity. He has cheffed at Club Gascon, Clos Maggiore, Arbutus and the late Putney Bridge (among other Gallic institutions).
On the menu: Rabbit and black pudding coulibiac with mustard mousseline and breakfast radish; and Provençal beef tartare, parmesan meringue and confit hen yolk; poached fillet of red mullet in saffron, squid ink bow pasta and vegetables confetti; honey glazed pork belly on the bone, braised endive and chantenay carrots; half roasted guinea fowl, sweet corn with Parisian gnocchi and radicchio; baked lemon tart, blackcurrant & tamarillos sorbet; and vanilla panna cotta, ginger crumble & plum compote with red wine sorbet.
As well as views of the River Mole, La Rive offers a selection of dining spaces including the gallery, the dining room and the conservatory, totally 124-covers. The 40-seater terrace will be heated for year-round al-fresco eating.
