Located on the fifth floor of the Abode Hotel in Chester, Michael Caines is a name distinguished for creating the finest of fine dining. Having visited several of his restaurants we were excited for the evening ahead and arrived with high expectations. We were seated at a wonderful table next to the window which offers some stunning views over Chester. The staff certainly understand the meaning of service here and we cannot fault it. The cuisine was no disappointment either, we enjoyed every course from our tasting menu.
To begin, we enjoyed Roasted Scallops, with Leek, and Chicken Jus. Scallops can easily be over or under cooked, but this dish was just a delight. It was paired with a glass of 2014, Finca Los Prados, San Rafeal, Argentina. A pleasant wine that delivers a bouquet of fruit aromas with a clean and crisp taste.
Our next dish was the Duck Liver Parfait, with Blood Orange Marmalade, Endive Salad, and Toasted Brioche. The Duck Liver Parfait was smooth and had a lovely texture and flavour. We enjoyed this with a glass of 2014, Escale Pinot Noir, South West, France. A light and elegant wine, with a silky tannin structure.
“A journey of excellent cuisine, each individually crafted and designed.”
Next we sampled the Stone Bass, with Bourguignon Sauce, Crispy Parsley, and Pomme Aligot. The Stone Bass was delicious, it’s was perfectly prepared and delivered on flavour. We had a glass of 2015, Yealands Estate Pinot Gris, Marlborough, New Zealand. A wine with an intense citrus flavour, perfect with fish dishes.
Moving on to the next course, we had the Daphnes Lamb, with Chickpea, Salted Lemon Puree, and Dukkah. We continue to be impressed with every dish leaving the kitchen and this was no exception. The Lamb was incredibly delicious and well-seasoned and the Salted Lemon Puree was a wonderful marriage of flavours. With this dish we enjoyed a glass of 2010, Arienzo de Marques de Riscal, Riojo, Spain. A dark, smokey wine with forest fruits and spicy notes.
Up next was the rather refreshing Blood Orange Salad, with Blood Orange Sorbet, and Orange Crisp. This was beautifully presented and tasted divine.
Finally, we were served Banana Parfait, with Sweet Popcorn, and Salted Caramel Ice Cream. A delicious dessert and perfectly paired with a glass of 2012, Montes Late Harvest Gewurtztraminer, Valle de Curico, Chile. A rich, golden yellow wine with tropical aromas and floral notes.
The tasting menu at Michael Caines takes you through a journey of excellent cuisine, each individually crafted and designed. This is a must visit for anyone visiting Chester.
The Bill: £100 per head
