The Kings Arms – Abergavenny

I had a three day week this week, and it was a dream. On Monday I spent the morning shopping with friends, evening having a barbecue and, in between, trying somewhere new for lunch – The Kings Arms in Abergavenny.

The pub is just opposite the Post Office right in the centre of Abergavenny, so it's perfect if you're having a wander round town and decide you want something good to eat for lunch. There are plenty of cafes in Abergavenny, but sometimes something a little more upmarket is needed, and The Kings Arms certainly delivers on that front. 

Flowers on the table tell me the place I'm eating at cares about their image as well as your experience with them, and that mutual feeling of having a good time is a must for me when I go out to eat.

The menu was varied and unique. There were lots of things I fancied, for example, the beetroot and goat's cheese salad, but I was drawn to the asparagus, soft boiled duck egg and toasted soldiers.

It's not often this happens, but this dish was perfect in every single way. I loved all of it, and I knew straight away I would be coming back to the Kings Arms for food again. It was the best asparagus, the best egg and the best soldiers I had ever had. Everything was seasoned to perfection, and the dressing was oily and slightly citrusy, which just made the dish for me.

Sarah ordered the air dried Welsh beef, rocket, parmesan, capers and lemon. It reminded me of posh beef jerky and the flavours worked brilliantly together.

Everything was beautifully presented, and the setting was relaxed and homely. The staff were friendly and attentive – I can't recommend this place enough if you're ever in the area. It was on par – if not better – than the food served at The Angel Hotel just a few minutes' walk down the road, and if you know Abergavenny, you'll know that sort of comparison is unheard of. So, well done to the Kings Arms – they have knocked The Angel off the top spot of where I most like to go to eat in Abergavenny!

Have you been to the Kings Arms for food before? Where's your favourite local pub/restaurant to eat? I'm already looking forward to my next visit here – that egg was AMAZING.

Turning Twenty Two

On Saturday it was my birthday. I had a lovely day, spent with friends eating and drinking lots of good food and drink, and even getting a little nap with my best friend Bethan while watching a cheesy film. My family came over to celebrate on Sunday so the fun was extended over the bank holiday weekend which was lovely.

Everyone is smitten with baby Olivia. On my 21st Birthday, she was just a tiny dot in Emily's tummy, and now she's all big and cuddly and it makes me so broody! She wore a very special party dress with rabbits all over it ♥

She even wrote a little message for me in my birthday card.

For my birthday meal I asked for my faaaaavourite – chicken in oatmeal. It's basically fried chicken in an oaty coating, served with a lemony, creamy, mustardy sauce, potatoes and vegetables. Sarah calls it a beige meal, but I love it.

Napkins – Tiger, Cardiff.

My mum makes a beautiful fruit salad.

Then it was time for cake, made by Emily.

It was speckled mocha cake, and it was absolutely divine. The best mocha cake I have ever tasted. It's a Mary Berry recipe, and definitely one to keep for other celebrations.

I was so spoilt with lots of lovely gifts – it was a birthday weekend to remember. I feel fortunate to have had two brilliant weekends in a row and I hope it's a sign of many more to come. I'm kind of glad to leave twenty one behind, and I can't wait to see what twenty two has in store. Thank you to everyone who made my day special ♥