After getting his hands dirty and roping in family and friends to give the pub a much needed refurbishment, Dom is firmly back in the kitchen doing what he does best and the doors are now open.
The project is a true labour of love for Dom and opening The Blackbird has seen him accomplish a life-long dream of owning his own restaurant, having previously worked with the likes of Tom Aikens, Anthony Demetre and Adam Byatt.
His approach to the menu is ‘back to basics’, ingredient-led using seasonal, locally sourced produce and classical techniques.
“I am dedicated to doing everything as perfectly as possible,” Dom explains. “My cooking is about keeping things simple, focusing on flavour and using the techniques I’ve learnt to get the best out of ingredients. You won’t see me messing around with gels or fermenting everything just for the sake of it.”
The food offers diners an authentic British gastro-pub experience; wholesome, honest cooking at affordable prices made memorable with unique ingredients sourced from an excellent network from local suppliers.
Inside, the pub has many of its original features, including wood and tile flooring, complemented by antique furniture, an ornate working organ and two roaring fires. Dom has injected colour into space with red walls in the dining room and a vibrant yellow bar, and with unique pieces of art; from landscapes of the local area, to street art prints and even a large canvas decorated expressively by his two young daughters.
Exposed bricks and contemporary filament bulb light fittings add to the rustic feel of the space, while a shabby-chic theme continues with vintage crockery, glassware and table linen used throughout.
