been woefully underserved when it comes to quality eateries. No longer, it seems.
I’d heard great things about this place since the new owner took the reins in January, so was looking forward to seeing what all the fuss was about. My dining partner and I were immediately struck by the buzz of happy drinkers and diners when we walked in, and impressed by the stylish new-look interior. With huge squishy leather sofas, oak flooring and a cool, shabby chic vibe, any slightly iffy connotations this venue may have had in the past are now a distant memory.
Now, with Mike Champion – former operations manager behind the Black Bull in Balsham and the Red Lion in Hinxton – at the helm, The Carpenter’s looks every inch the upmarket gastro pub.