On To Something Good…
Tedd Walmsley meets up with chef Nigel Haworth to discuss the ever-evolving menu at the fabulous Three Fishes.Photography: Andy Tighe
It’s just over six months since our good friend Nigel Haworth re-opened his beloved Three Fishes and I thought it long overdue to catch up with him to see how it was all going and if he’s on track.
There was so much hype and expectation for this re-opening with Nigel returning to The Three Fishes 18 years after a hugely successful first incarnation in 2004. Annoyingly, a delay due to Covid and the Government restrictions meant a quiet opening became inevitable. Since then, things have gone from strength to strength.
Nigel was keen to show me around the incredible one-acre garden, which has fulfilled a lifelong dream of creating and sustaining his farm to fork philosophy with a collection of selected heritage seeds grown specifically for the ultimate taste. Also, in the 30 metre polytunnel, there was an abundance of vegetables, salads and micro herbs it was literally overflowing with produce.
Nigel wanted me to be clear that the perma-culture, no-dig approach, protects and enhances biodiversity, which is so important in the world now and for the future. The gardens were designed by Bunny Guinness, and we also feature her as our lead editorial in this issue.
Nigel is producing the finest vegetables and salads, harvested and picked to order each day. He explained that not everything can be grown on site – the sourcing of complementary products is hugely important and the selection of partners, for example in meat, game and fish, has taken time as each must share the same ethos and passion for an organic sustainable future.
So, what does all this mean when it comes to the dishes Nigel continues to develop in what is now an ever-increasing set of choices for diners at The Three Fishes?
Nigel’s cooking style, which earned him his Michelin star many years ago, is centred around an incredible attention to detail and precision. The use of the finest of ingredients and a mix of contemporary and classic British cooking to the highest order is evident across the menus.
The amazing new summer menu has just been launched offering excellent value with a four-course seasonal lunch at £39 and £50 for five courses. The menu has a delightful summer feel, with everything seasonal. Over the last few months Nigel has developed a special menu for those looking for something lighter or to choose their own dishes, allowing for more flexibility whilst dining. These include the option of enjoying Carlingford oysters and champagne on the beautiful terrace. The menu currently includes Hebridean scallops, wild seabass, skate, Dover sole, shrimps and much more from Morecambe Bay, along with perfectly cooked and locally sourced free-range chicken and rare breed beef. There is also an impressive array of plant-based options.
The Three Fishes has been lovingly restored and developed – set in the beautiful village of Mitton, the outdoor space has been dramatically increased, a seated area at the front, with the terrace around the back of the building, which is perfectly suited for both drinks and alfresco dining, and the newly created BBQ menu, every Friday.
As you can imagine this is no ordinary barbecue and a selection of perfectly grilled meats and fish are served alongside organic salads, a signature coleslaw and in-season Jersey Royals. If you’re looking for the perfect Friday night, look no further than The Three Fishes.
Nigel told me it’s going to be a very busy summer and I know his ever-growing team of like-minded professionals in the kitchen and front of house are looking forward to welcoming you. Look out also for some mid-week collaborations with Nigel opening his ‘black book’ of TV chefs and friends. Specialist fish evenings are also planned so keep checking social media and the website for further details. I left Nigel in his garden looking happy and content – he’s on to something good. Let’s support him by paying him a visit soon.
The Three Fishes
Mitton Road
Mitton BB7 9PQ
01254 826666
thethreefishes.co.uk
