Last week marked my 21st birthday, which coincided nicely with being around a week after all the pubs and restaurants started opening up again in England! Whilst I didn’t get to celebrate in the way that I wanted to exactly, I did jump at the opportunity to finally step foot in a restaurant again…
I decided that it was best to go somewhere local, wanting to avoid travelling long distances or having to go on any public transport. I thought that the Baraset Barn near Stratford-upon-Avon would be a good choice; we have visited before as a family and have always been delighted with the service, food and atmosphere!
Having not been to a restaurant in almost four months, I was over the moon that I chose the Baraset Barn as the first place to visit post-lockdown. Coronavirus-wise, it was extremely safe, clean and prepared without feeling pressured or uncomfortable. We went on a Monday lunchtime so obviously not peak time, but the precautions were there and I can see how they would work well even if the restaurant was at top capacity.
Tuna tataki starter 
Crispy duck salad starter 
Crispy pork belly skewers
Slow-braised pork belly with rice noodles and a spiced broth
Dark Chocolate fondue with profiteroles, churros, raspberry marshmallows and strawberries
The food was truly delicious, and I can’t wait to visit again soon to try some of the other things on the menu (I had major food envy of the lamb which was so tender!) For starter I had a crispy duck salad, for main I had pork belly with noodles in a spicy broth, and for dessert we shared a chocolate fondue. We were all too full for dessert really but as it was my birthday, it would’ve been rude not to!
I would definitely recommend the Baraset Barn for something to eat if you find yourself in Stratford-upon-Avon and would like somewhere nice. We will definitely be returning again soon!
I’d love to hear anyone else’s experience with eating out post-lockdown, have you ventured out yet or waiting a bit longer? Let me know in the comments!
Bethan x
