Venney’s at the Granby ‘bringing touch of Kensington’ to North Thoresby – review

Every visit to Venney’s at the Granby in North Thoresby is a celebration.

Whether it is for the excellent meals, outstanding service and the friendly atmosphere or, in our case, an anniversary meal, the venue is a must for those seeking the ultimate in eating out.

The new menu at Venney’s at the Granby is a feast of satisfaction to please everyone.

The choice of mains ranges from traditional fish dishes of seabass, halibut, haddock and scampi, through to steak and ale pies, sausage or steaks.

There is also an appetising range of lasagnes, stroganoff, a chicken tagine or Katsu curry that cannot be missed.

The stunning transformation of the former Granby Inn, which was the Halfway House for many years, is remarkable.

It has brought a touch of Kensington or Chelsea to the village, but at half of the price and even more of an excellent dining experience.

There is more to come too with the opening of The Granby Grill, shortly, so watch out for more news.

A visit to Venney’s at the Granby is a salute to owners Sara and Peter Venney for starting up their business in the existing economic climate. They are flying the flag for true entrepreneurial spirit and started their first venture in the catering industry with astonishing and well-deserved success.

The achievement is measured by the number of returning visitors and those, like us, who are first-timers, since opening in June.

The reason is quite simple. The food is brilliant and the service excellent, in superb surroundings. And it is all at a reasonable price.

I had a delicious starter of smoked salmon from Grimsby’s Alfred Enderby with sauce gribiche (£8.95). It was lovely and won the day over a choice of ribs, fried pigeon breast, prawns or goats cheese croquettes all around the same price.

My partner’s chicken tagine, with dried fruits, steamed rice and mini-poppadums (£18.95) was fantastic. The spices had quite a kick to them complemented by the dried fruits and mango chutney. She thoroughly recommended it in between enjoying a lime and soda. The drinks came with crushed ice, which is a classy touch and came with plenty of lime, unlike other watered-down versions at other venues.

My beef fillet stroganoff with chestnut mushrooms and spinach and rice (£17.95) was a joy from the first mouthful to the last, and filling.

Scores of other diners looked impressed with their meals from the new menu and there was a lovely atmosphere to the plush and spacious venue.

The owners have taken on around 25 new staff and they all have a cheerful and friendly way, giving an added sparkle to the restaurant.

It is spotlessly clean and the facilities are first class. The patio area and corridors are elegantly lit and introduce visitors to a special place which has all the highest of standards of Lincolnshire’s finest eating out places.

There was a pleasant break before the biggest thrill of the evening, the homemade desserts. Take a bow ‘Little Chef Lily’, daughter of chef Ant Cron, for the best selection of desserts the county has to offer.

Dark chocolate tart with raspberry sorbet, fresh raspberries and clotted cream, cinnamon creme brulee, with cookie dough ice cream and homemade biscotti and the sticky toffee pudding looked magnificent.

My partner chose the Biscoff tart with caramel syrup, crushed Biscoff and salted caramel ice-cream. She raved for a long time about its perfection. My lemon curd posset was equally perfect.

The blueberry sauce, crushed pistachios and homemade shortbread on top made it heaven on a plate. They tasted even better at £6.50 each.

The restaurant has a private dining suite for use for conferences and meetings or parties.

Here’s to many more anniversaries at Venney’s at the Granby.

The venue is open 11am to 11pm Monday to Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 9am to midnight and Sunday 9am to 10pm. Booking is advised on 01472 514838 or check out venneysatthegranby.co.uk.