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In a nutshell
A sizzling summer menu, stylish setting and sensational selection of cocktails all offer a great experience at Chaz Mal Brasserie in Cheltenham.
The review
A Cheltenham gem
Nestled in the heart of Cheltenham, Malmaison’s Chez Mal Brasserie is certainly dressed to impress. Housed in a stunning Regency building, there’s the wow factor even before you’ve entered the building.
From the period features to perfectly-styled interiors, the venue exudes a boutique charm. In the light-filled restaurant area, contemporary furnishings, a partially-open kitchen and colourful artwork all create a pleasant, vibrant atmosphere.
Sitting down and feasting our eyes on the summer menu, my husband and I were excited to discover whether the brasserie could deliver on substance as well as its style… and the menu certainly raised our hopes that both boxes would be ticked.
A set menu featuring a host of enticing choices, the selection of seasonal dishes sing of summer; from the refreshing salad starter, to the decadent dessert of poached English strawberries with Champagne and mint jelly.
A slice of summer
After some delicious deliberating and with appetites whetted by tasty olives, our starters arrived. My husband opted for the charred mackerel with heritage tomato ceviche and coriander; a light dish that suits the season, it was the perfect introduction to the meal.
For myself, the grilled vegetables also proved a great summer starter; tasty without being heavy, the selection of peppers, onions and courgette even looked the part – a plate full of colour, the presentation certainly made me happy to dive right in.
The main event
A true meat lover, my husband couldn’t resist Chez Mal Brasserie’s sticky barbecue rack of pork ribs, served with pickled vegetables, roast sweet potatoes and chipotle mayonnaise.
Glazed with sauce and falling off the bone, the meaty meal is certainly one for carnivorous eaters. The rich ribs were complemented by the accompaniments; pickled veggies added a little zing, while the sweet potato chunks were juicy and succulent.
Meanwhile I fancied a taste of Morocco, choosing the squash and red onion terrine with coriander and apricot couscous.
Hearty without being too heavy, the tagine delivered a tasty balance of Moroccan flavours which, combined with the couscous, was everything you’d expect of the traditional dish.
Surprisingly full after two courses, we didn’t let our eyes be bigger than our bellies. Although if you’re after a sweet treat, the Valrhona chocolate truffle torte with crème fraiche and fresh raspberries could be for you…
SoGlos loves
The prix fixe menu allows diners to enjoy a three-course meal, without breaking the bank. With a good choice of dishes for each course, the only problem for diners could be choosing what to go for!
What’s more, away from the set menu, Chez Mal Brasserie’s à la carte menu is brimming with delicious temptation. Highlights include pan-seared scallops with red pepper purée, tapenade, samphire and sauce vierge; sesame-crusted Ahi tuna steak with bok choi, chilli, ginger and miso dressing; and the Ayrshire bacon and Gruyère cheese burger.
Top tip
A visit to Malmaison isn’t complete without a cocktail (or two). The Malchemy drinks menu offers classics and unique tipples from Malmaison’s master mixologists. From Mojitos and Martinis to the tempting Gin Mule, even the most discerning drinker will be in cocktail heaven.
What next?
For more information, see Chez Mal Brasserie, call (01242) 370655, or visit malmaison.com directly.
