Opening a new H&C News office in Penarth has given us the pleasant opportunity to explore this vibrant, picturesque town just outside Cardiff. When enquiring about a good restaurant to visit, Pier 64 was mentioned regularly and with much praise. We were also looking for a venue to celebrate both of my brother’s birthdays so a table for 6pm at Pier 64 was booked last Saturday night.
Set on the edge of Penarth Marina Pier 64 projects elegance and is inviting from the moment you walk through the door. We were greeted by a waiter who took our coats and escorted us to our table. We were then given copies of the extensive menu specialising in seafood, the waitress was well-versed in explaining each dish and answered all of our questions knowledgeably. We ordered drinks and sat back to enjoy reviewing what to select from the extensive choice.
We were offered a jug of water and during the evening it was replenished several times. I ordered a bottle of red wine for the table and I opted for house red which was San Perito Merlot from Chile.
I started with the sea salt & dried chilli flake calamari as I felt I need to try at least one seafood dish during this dining experience. I was very pleased I did, the calamari were cooked to perfection with the batter being light, crispy and well-seasoned. The soya sauce accompanying it paired well and after finishing a bit too quickly perhaps, I eagerly awaited the main course.
Enter the beautifully presented 8oz rump of lamb, served with garlic mash, pea puree & red wine jus. I ordered my lamb rare and it was tender, easy to cut, juicy and melted in ones mouth as they say. The garlic mash was also well seasoned and soft and fluffy, the pea puree & red wine jus really bought out the rich flavours of the lamb. A great combination that worked well together.
The starter and main course had been fantastic, and as one of my favourite desserts was on the menu I thought it would be rude not to order it. Apple Tart Tatin, a classic with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, it was delicious.
Pier 64, the first restaurant I have visited in Penarth has set a high standard of dining, attention to detail and customer service. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone visiting the area.
We will be back later in the year for lunch as the restaurant setting in Penarth Marina warrants pictures, lots of them.
By James Sheehan, Editorial Content Manager, H&C News