Pad at Celtic Manor Resort: Larkin Cen's stunning menu
Set in the airy conservatory at the Manor House at the resort, Pad offers a relaxed atmosphere, friendly and helpful staff, and a culinary experience you have got to try if Asian food is your thing – or even its not.
We were even lucky enough to get to chat to the chef to find out about more about his concept for the menu and his delight at being back at the Celtic Manor.
Starting the evening with a couple of signature cocktails, including a fruity Singapore Sling, we sat is the big bay window of the bar and watched the world go by – which this particular evening meant watching guests gather in black tie and some fantastic gowns for event at the ICC Wales.
We decided to go for the Imperial tasing menu option (£48 pp) which was packed with delights including Korean Pork Belly Bites, Roasted Duck Massaman and a Whole Seabass with Soy Dressing and Herb Salad.
(Image: Jo Barnes) (Image: Jo Barnes) (Image: Jo Barnes)
Kicking off with Shrimp Crackers we knew we were in for a treat – each dish was just bursting with flavour.
The tasting menu is designed to share and made for a wonderfully social meal as we dipped in and out of the bowls with our chopsticks (not in any way expertly but we managed).
To accompany the food we asked for a bottle of sparkling water and were delighted to be offered a range of options to flavour the water – these included a slice of root ginger or lemon grass among others. The ginger added an extra dimension giving the water just a slight hint of the taste – I may well be trying this at home.
We also decided on a bottle of Hutton Ridge Shiraz from South Africa which turned out to be the perfect choice – delicious but not too heavy to drown out any of the delicate flavours coming from each of the dishes.
Tasting menu done, it would have been rude not to sample a dessert.
The Mochi Selection (£8.50) included Coconut, Passion fruit and Mango, and Strawberry and Cream, was yummy.
(Image: Jo Barnes) (Image: Jo Barnes)
The Passion Fruit Panna Cotta (£7.50) with Mango lassi was a revelation and beautifully presented.
The menu also offers small plates, bao and dumpling options, larger dishes including steak and a selection of Asian curries and wok dishes.
To find out more and to book go to the Celtic Manor website.
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