Shillingfords at the Quay

Shillingfords at the Quay in Sudbury, Suffolk, has proved popular not only with theatregoers but also with those keen to experience the taste sensation that Michelin-trained chef Carl Shillingford has to offer.

Open on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6pm–11pm, the restaurant offers first-class dining in the informal setting of the top floor of the Quay Theatre. The emphasis is very much on ‘wild food’ and all dishes are prepared with foods foraged by Carl himself, paired with locally sourced ingredients.

As you’d expect the menus are seasonal and changed every two weeks. Expect fresh fish dishes such as ‘River Trout on a Seagrass Trio’ and unusual meat delights like ‘Wild Boar Loin with hopshoots, and hogweed buds’.

Dishes are large-starter sized, reasonably priced at £5-£8, so you can easily try as many as you wish without spending a fortune. There’s also the option of board menus, each has three meat, three fish and three dessert options, with wines to match.

Carl and his wife Beth, who hosts the restaurant, will give you the warmest welcome at Shillingfords, just ensure that you book well in advance as their growing popularity and rave reviews have meant they are about five weeks ahead in bookings.

By Rebecca Twiss, Suffolk editor