The Fox at Willian - Review

A Sunday roast is a tradition that holds a special place in many hearts, mine included. As the days get cooler and evenings darker, nothing brings a more comforting smile than the thought of a Sunday roast. It's a time for comfort, for indulgence, and for enjoying the pleasure of comfortable surroundings and engaging company. It was with these high expectations that I found myself at ‘The Fox,’ a popular gastro pub nestled in the heart of Willian.

The fox is one of the establishments owned by Anglian country inns. Boasting a country pub in the picturesque village with 8 accompanying and stylish rooms to match. With a seasonal and sustainable approach to their menu, and a proclaimed "impressive" wine list we were eager to try.

We booked our table for the early lunch period and Upon our arrival, we were warmly welcomed by the front of house staff. This warm reception set the stage for what was to be an afternoon of culinary delight and relaxation.

The interior décor of 'The Fox' was a breath of fresh air, with a gentle colour palette of sage greens and softened oranges. It was as if they had managed to bring the tranquillity of the outdoors inside, creating an environment that was light, airy, and invigorating, yet simultaneously cosy and inviting. The pub was buzzing with a gentle hum of conversation, creating a busy but calm atmosphere that added to the overall charm of the place.

Our gastronomic adventure began with two small plates: a serving of Calamari (£9) and a dish of Homemade Hummus with Flatbreads (£6.50). The calamari was a testament to the kitchen's attention to detail, perfectly cooked to a tender, golden crispness that was a delight to bite into. The hummus, on the other hand, was a creamy concoction of flavours that paired beautifully with the warm, fluffy flatbreads. Each bite was a symphony of textures and tastes that set the bar high for the dishes to follow.

For the main course, we decided to dive into the Sunday roasts. One of us opted for the pork (£21), while the other chose the beef (£23). To accompany our meal we chose a bottle of their Chilean Merlot wines (£28.50). The wine list was indeed impressive with bottles ranging from £24.50 to £120 a bottle, along with a choice of 5 wines by the glass. It was also nice to see a couple of English sparkling on the list from west Sussex.

The portions were plentiful and hearty, just as a Sunday roast should be. The pork was succulent and tender, its natural flavours accentuated by the simple, yet effective seasoning. The beef was a carnivore's dream, rich and cooked to perfection, with a pink centre that was a joy to behold. Accompanied with well cooked vegetables, roast potatoes and of course the token Yorkshire pudding meant you we left full and satisfied.

The wine was robust in flavour, with subtle hints of spice from the chilli that added an extra layer of complexity to the dish. It paired wonderfully with our roasts, the rich flavours of the wine complementing the hearty meats and adding to the overall dining experience.

The staff were attentive without being intrusive, always ready to assist and ensure we had everything we needed. Despite the busy atmosphere, they managed to maintain a calm and relaxed environment, contributing to the enjoyable buzz of the place.

In conclusion, our Sunday at ‘The Fox’ was more than just a meal; it was a culinary enjoyment that ticked all the right boxes for a relaxed Sunday meal. From the welcoming staff and tastefully designed interior to the delicious food and the excellent service, it was an afternoon well spent. If you're ever in Willian, do yourself a favour and book a table at 'The Fox.' It's not just a gastro pub; it's a place where food is celebrated, service is prioritised, and customers are valued. And trust me, you'll leave with not just a satisfied palate but memories of a splendid dining experience.