Detailed Review: The Two Brewers

We recently went for a meal with friends at The Two Brewers, not having eaten there since it changed hands some 16 months ago. We were looking forward to it, having heard good things from visitors on our Two Brewers reviews page..

One real benefit of gastro-pubs, is of course the pub part – you can enjoy a relaxed drink before the meal, and it makes it simple for members of a larger group to meet up beforehand.  On that count the Two Brewers is a real winner- the pub part is small, but cozy in the extreme! Of course, there’s every reason to visit just for drinks – there was a good atmosphere around the bar which transferred to the adjacent restaurant section.

My starter was a Crispy Duck, Chorizo and Bacon  Salad – a combination that intrigued and did not disappoint.  Portion size was generous too, something that I noted amongst other starters – the Scallops consisted of 4, whereas plenty of other places you get 3 (this is the sort of thing I notice!) – and the Risotto portion was huge.   Starters on average cost £7-£8.

Main courses cost in the region of £14-£16, except for the fillet steak. A few of us on the table went for Roast Rump of Lamb, with Fondant Potato – cooked perfectly well, and good portion sizes again.   The Fillet Steak was another favourite, with triple cooked chips (a Heston Blumenthal classic – I wonder if he has been in to try?)

Desserts we tried included Brioche and Marmalade Pudding (ie posh bread and butter pudding) , which tasted just as good as it sounds – and Chocoloate Box, a house speciality which was certainly very rich in it’s chocolateness!

There is a decent wine list – about 20 whites, 20 reds,  3 rosés, champagne and prosecco if you fancy some fizz on a budget.  Costs  from about £16 a bottle, with about half the selection being available by the glass.

Service at the bar and in restaurant was very good, informative and attentive.  It is clear that the owner Antony Burnham cares passionately about what he is trying to achieve at the Two Brewers.  The combination of traditional pub atmosphere and high quality food he seeks has been achieved.

We were left with empty plates and smiles on faces all round,  and the Two Brewers has certainly made it back onto the roster of places we will visit regularly.

Their website www.twobrewersmarlow.com has online menus, including the current Christmas Party menu.