The Taste Trekker

Welcome back to our cosy internet corner where we dive deep into our most recent eateries and attractions! Whether you’ve been away for a while or just eagerly awaiting our latest post, we’re thrilled to have you here. Our community thrives on your insights and enthusiasm, so grab a cup of your favourite beverage, settle in, and let’s explore the fascinating finds and hidden treasures on the Isle of Wight.

1. Bonchurch Inn
“Step into the enchanting village of Bonchurch, nestled just east of Ventnor, and discover a pub that’s a true hidden gem on the Isle of Wight. As you wander into the sun-dappled courtyard, you’ll be greeted by the tantalizing aromas of authentic Italian cuisine—a rare find in such a quaint setting. This isn’t your typical village tavern; it’s a place where the classics step aside for the extraordinary. Since the Besozzi family took the reins in 1984, they’ve been serving what many call the island’s finest Italian fare. And let’s talk about their lasagne—it’s not just food, it’s an experience! Dubbed “life-changing,” it’s a dish that will make lasagne lovers swoon with delight, and the portions are as generous as the flavours. Don’t forget to pair it with their legendary garlic bread, which is just as remarkable. It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary adventure that awaits at this unique Isle of Wight pub!🍝“

Head to their website at: https://www.bonchurchinn.com/

2. The Garlic Farm
“Embark on a sensory journey to the Isle of Wight and find yourself at the doorstep of The Garlic Farm, where the air is rich with the heavenly scent of garlic—a gourmand’s paradise. From the moment you arrive, the farm shop beckons with its cornucopia of garlic-infused delights. Imagine tasting your way through an array of exquisite condiments—the robust garlic tomato sauce, the creamy garlic mayonnaise, and the fiery garlic chilli jam—all vying for your palate’s approval.

Venture further, and you’ll discover a trove of local artisanal creations, from handcrafted ceramics to the finest spirits, each telling a story of the island’s rich heritage. Around the corner, a quaint cafe offers respite with its aromatic coffee and the unexpected pleasure of black garlic chocolate ice cream—a bold fusion of flavours.

But the heart of the Garlic Farm is its restaurant, a culinary haven we returned to thrice, each visit more memorable than the last. Breakfasts here are a revelation, featuring garlic sausage nestled in a garlic ciabatta, smothered in garlic tomato sauce—a garlic lover’s dream. The full English breakfast, the fiery chilli con carne with Garlic Vampire Relish, and the garlicky chicken Caesar salad are just a few of the standout dishes that will leave you craving more. As for the accommodation, it’s a flawless retreat—a spacious cottage that welcomes you with garlicky treats and for an added extra, a fridge stocked with a loaf of irresistible garlic bread, perfect for a cosy night in. The Garlic Farm isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an experience, a hidden gem that promises to make your Isle of Wight adventure unforgettable. 🌱

Head to their website at: https://www.thegarlicfarm.co.uk/

3. Goddard’s Brewery
Step into the world of Goddards Brewery, a recent architectural marvel where tradition meets modernity. As you wander through the pristine spaces, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of excellence. The brewery’s heart beats with a high-tech pulse—16 interactive touchscreens unfold the rich tapestry of Goddards’ heritage, their artisanal brewing secrets, and a kaleidoscope of beverages.

Ascend to the Firken Deck Restaurant and bask in the culinary heights where gastronomy and brewery charm intertwine. A warm welcome by the staff sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Choose your adventure: a £5 day pass unlocking the wonders within, or seize a lifetime of memories for just £12.50, complete with a signature glass and a trio of beer tasters.

Indulge in the culinary craftsmanship of the create-your-own omelette, or the daily soup paired with a toasty delight. Each encounter with their team is a brush with hospitality at its finest—engaging, insightful, and always inviting. Finally, for the beer aficionado, a smorgasbord of beer-infused delicacies awaits, like beer sausage! For those in pursuit of the quintessential brew, Wight Squirrel and Barista stand ready to captivate your palate. Combine this with their exquisite fare, and you’ve found a slice of paradise at Goddards.

Head to their website at: https://goddardsbrewery.com/

4. Mermaid Bar
Discover the Mermaid Bar, a treasure nestled within the Isle of Wight Distillery, a stone’s throw from Pondwell’s serene shores. This enchanting locale is a sanctuary for spirit enthusiasts and the birthplace of the legendary Mermaid Gin. For a mere £9, embark on a tasting odyssey featuring the classic Mermaid Gin, the citrus-infused Zest Gin, the blushing Pink Gin, the robust Spiced Rum, and the crystalline Salt Vodka, not to mention the formidable HMS Victory navy strength spirits.

As a teetotaler, I found myself captivated by the symphony of flavors, with the Mermaid Spiced Rum and tonic striking a particularly harmonious chord, while my companion was charmed by the delicate allure of the Mermaid Pink Gin. The experience was heightened by the panoramic windows offering a voyeuristic view into the distillery’s heart, where alchemy becomes art.

The Mermaid Bar is more than a distillery; it’s a haven where local libations and beloved classics fill the shelves, and a restaurant promises gastronomic delights like homemade pizza—a wish for our next visit. In the venue’s cozy corner, a boutique shop offers bottled masterpieces and an array of merchandise, from stylish tees to beach-ready towels and elegant tumblers. For those who revel in the art of fine spirits and the joy of a delectable meal, the Mermaid Bar awaits to weave its magic around your senses, much like the enchanting Goddards.

Head to their website at: https://isleofwightdistillery.com/

Behold the Isle of Wight’s four culinary treasures, each a beacon of gastronomic delight and libationary pleasure. We urge you, intrepid explorers of taste, to embark on this epicurean quest and discover these hidden sanctuaries for yourselves. As you chart your course to this enchanting Isle, let the anticipation build for the forthcoming tales of our own gourmet odyssey. Keep your eyes peeled and your palates ready, for our in-depth reviews of these exceptional havens are soon to follow, chronicling every sip and savour of our unforgettable staycation. 🌟🍴🍷