Flying High With Flavour
Kate Bowyer drops in to relaunched favourite The Pickled Goose at Barton, just north of Preston on the A6, celebrating its vibrant relaunch after the twin challenges of lockdown and the cost of living crisis. Photography: Michael Porter
Following an extended post-Covid pause, it’s clear the revitalised Pickled Goose is once again flying high. The comfortable-luxe ‘wow factor’ comes from its £300k refurbishment, and its finishing touches overseen by local interior designer Victoria Bailey.
Sitting down with new general manager Jamie Hall, my tastebuds are tingling after just one look at the all-new menu, which has been creating a buzz since the Goose’s October reopening.
“The whole team are passionate about our new chapter,” explains Jamie, as I tuck into delicious homemade goats’ cheese gnocchi and salt and pepper squid. “Fresh, locally sourced produce which celebrates this area’s food heritage remains at the heart of the menu, but served in relaxed, tapas-inspired style. This maximises freshness and smooth service, with a greater choice than the standard starter-and-main format.
“Customers are already telling us they’re enjoying comparing and sharing a wider variety of flavours through our multiple-dish choices, while traditional Sunday roasts are of course on offer every week, with a choice of meat and veggie options and all the trimmings.”
Jamie is also keen to put his cocktail expertise and enthusiasm to good use: “Complementing our great range of food and beers, wines and spirits, we want to establish a vibrant drinking environment that invites the local community to call in for a catch up with friends or to share a bottle of fizz during one of our live music nights.
“Victoria’s gorgeous designs plus this style of menu, blend eating, drinking and relaxing perfectly. From foodies to the social diner, those with a lighter appetite or just popping for a drink and nibble, guests are discovering a much greater choice, in a welcoming atmosphere.”
Whilst Jamie treats me to the temptations of a classic lemon baked Alaska, I can see how inviting the abundant sharing party menu will be for Christmas groups. Plans for 2024 include an expansion of the outside areas, longer opening hours, and regular live music events.
“This is just the beginning,” confirms Jamie, “Building on an awesome start, our goal is to make The Pickled Goose a real community hub pub and destination restaurant.”
The Pickled Goose
807 Garstang Road
Barton
Preston PR3 5AA
01772 802280
thepickledgoose.com
