Tasting the menu at Memsahib Gin & Tea Rooms

Claiming to be the Worlds first Gin and Tea Bar, this truly delightful restaurant is situated at the end of the regency grade listed buildings at the back of the long garden along the Promenade. 

Entering via the steps into a World of style, with comfy antique arm-chairs, ornate wood panelling and flashes of coloured walls showcasing the historical stories of Cheltonian women and their connections to India and the tastes of the English Raj.

The staff are all friendly, extremely knowledgeable and nothing is too much trouble. We went for a girl's afternoon for the first time to truly indulge ourselves in the exotic gins and tasty appetisers that we had heard so much about. Upon sitting ourselves down we had a leisurely read about all of Memsahib Gin & Tea Bar's seasonal teas and their own crafted Gin with natural botanicals which also included the extensive range of Gins from the UK and the Gin and Tea Tasting menu. Not only did this keep us enthralled for quite a few minutes the unanimous thought was we needed to return for the gin and tea tasting menu.

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Returning a few days later with partners in tow we were presented with an aromatic tea and the most delicious Bombay mix which had fresh pomegranate, puffed rice and bhuna Masala in it, whilst awaiting the first drink; Cucumber Gin Teapot. Served in an elegant glass teapot the drink was refreshing and could only be described as cleanser on the palate, accompaning the first dish of the tasting menu; 'Samosa and Chutney' which melted in the mouth and was set on a home-made flavoursome chutney.

Tray two featured an Asian Ginger Chai Gin & Aromatic Tonic – this had a warming flavour which was paired with a soft sea bass fish set on a delicious salad with an exotic mayonnaise which made us all feel very inspired. By this stage we are all commenting on the fact that each drink and dish is totally unique and every flavour recognisable and all truly delicious.

The Bombay Presidency Punch had arrived served with Chicken Tikka and immediately transported us all to a beachside bar. Releasing our buttons a little looser we decided to have a little rest before the finale, we were all in raptures about the flavours in the gins, food and presentation. We all loved the fact that the team at Memsahib Gin & Tea bar brought the dishes to us in traditional indian wicker baskets. 

Resuming with the centre of the show; the Indian Masala Gin and Pink Pepper Tonic which looked and tasted immense. This came with the best Beef Keema and petit pois & baby potatoes you could imagine. The meal finished with Lady Sophies Martini which was described by my lot as a dream martini that was definitely shaken not stirred and expertly blended with a Fig and Coconut crumble.

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The whole experience was one to savour and delight in, the entire team felt completely spoilt and took away an exceptional evening of master food pairings and spices that transformed our Worlds. The Memsahib Gin & Tea Bar highlights itself as one of the true gems of Cheltenham, we can't help but feel lucky to have them so close to home for whenever we feel like popping in for another gastronomic experience or special night out.