Gentleman’s Day at Brighton Racecourse

Nose Bag

Gentleman’s Day at Brighton Racecourse was a fun affair, what’s not to love about the buzz of a race meet, a few drinks and a few bets, especially if you happen to pick a winner. I loved the combination of those serious punters and those of us who were simply there for fun, and it is fun.
We certainly backed a winner by dining in Silks restaurant. There were plenty of options on the course of course and it was quite fun seeing ladies in posh frocks and fascinators tucking into giant burgers and sausage and chips. Up in Silks Restaurant the scene was far more elegant. First I would like to say that the service is exemplary, the waiting staff that work these affairs are real professionals, they know exactly what to do and how to behave, they are friendly and efficient and I tip my hat to them.
The food was good too. I loved my deconstructed smoked haddock tart, it was delicate in texture and full of flavour. Mr S chose a terrine and was equally impressed by his dish which was tasty and stylishly presented.
Moving on I chose the pulled pork bon bon with braised pork belly and a black pudding puree. It was a hearty plate of food, generous in size and in flavours. The potato fondant was good too and so too the strangely cuboid carrot. There were broccoli florets, not so exciting and a good apple sauce that I would have liked more of.
Mr S chose the stuffed chicken supreme and enjoyed it too, and cleaned his plate which is always a good sign. And whilst dining the nice Tote lady explained how the betting thing works to him as he was a race meet virgin.
When it came time to choose dessert I was very tempted by the cheese, tempted until I read that it included a smoked cheese, a flavour I have never come to terms with – so I chose the cherry chocolate bombe. This included a trio of choccy delights, one of which was a scary sounding, but delicious tasting white chocolate smoothie.
Mr S chose the gooseberry meringue tart and polished off the lot, he has a hearty appetite to say the least. I have to say that I looked on with envy, I love meringue and I love gooseberries.
We drank a bottle of very good Picpoul, sensibly priced and finished with coffees before heading down to the track to watch some of our chosen nags stagger in last. Truth is I did have one winner on the course but I had several winners in the restaurant.