THE GREEN DRAGON, Wymondham
This beautiful pub has been at the heart of Wymondham hospitality for at least 600 years – and is still delighting diners.
Visually, it’s a gem both inside and out, with an atmospheric and cosy interior with beams and fireplaces and an attractive raised garden tucked away in its large leafy courtyard – complete with some covered options ideal for autumn evenings.
We sat out beside a bijou herb and vegetable patch brimming with garden-grown delights. They wouldn’t be enough for the entire menu but I like to think the chefs might pop out to cut a garnish, and they add to the sense that local, seasonal food is important here.
The menu runs through the day from noon to late, so the individual tapas which might make a light lunch are also ideal evening starters – or a meal in themselves if you choose several.
I went for breaded halloumi bites with a soured-cream sauce, devilled whitebait with tartare sauce and a plate of olives, hummus and warmed breads, served with balsamic vinegar and extra virgin rapeseed oil.
Together, the crispy fish and succulent cheese (there’s a vegan cauliflower florets option too), with crusty warm bread and a fabulously creamy hummus dip, were a delicious and satisfying meal. It all looked wonderful too, with each dish accompanied by a flourish of vibrant salad. My husband very much enjoyed his Cromer crab salad and generous portion of new potatoes.
The Green Dragon was taken on by the landlords of The Cellar House in Eaton, Norwich, and the Old Ram in Tivetshall St Mary, and judging from our visit the venerable old inn is obviously in excellent hands – so much so that my husband was back for dinner, with a friend, a couple of days later.
It had been hard to choose from a menu packed with good things and this time he went for the crispy aubergine katsu curry with steamed rice and pickles. It was so good there are plans to return, and desserts of sticky toffee pudding, cheesecake and chocolate brownie are three more reasons to linger.
norfolkgreendragon.co.uk
