The Erskine Arms in Conwy was not what I expected

Rose Hill St 

Conwy

LL32 8LD

ANOTHER lunch hunt, this time in Conwy, brought me to the Erskine Arms - where I found much more than I was expecting.

In need of sustenance after a long drive I headed into the building opposite Conwy Visitor's Centre expecting to find the usual pub grub offering to get me though.

What I found was hearty, flavoursome food combined with delicate flair.

Having been told that tables for lunch were first come, first served I grabbed a spot next to the roaring fire to take a look at the options.

While my choice of seat may have been a mistake - it wasn't that cold on this fine autumn day - my choice of pub was certainly not.

I love a simple pub lunch but this went a few steps further. I started with Welsh beef meatballs in pancetta and roasted tomato ragu with parmigiano shavings and fresh gremolata.

Welsh beef meatballs in pancetta and roasted tomato ragu. (Image: Alec Doyle, Newsquest)

The beef had a rich, almost gamey flavour that burst out and the ragu was sweet and fresh. The only way they could have improved it was if there were more meatballs.

And if the starter was fantastic, the main only got better.

I went for a salmon fillet with lemon, dill and parmesan pearl barley risotto with anchovy butter and baby capers.

If the meatballs left you wanting more, the risotto left no room for seconds. The serving looked perfect, but once I dug in I realised I was really getting my money's worth.

Salmon fillet with lemon, dill and parmesan pearl barley risotto. (Image: Alec Doyle, Newsquest)

The chunky salmon fillet was perfectly cooked and the risotto brought all the flavour together.

Gorgeously salty without being overpowering, this was a big bowl of comfort food I never wanted to end.

In fairness at one point I thought it never would, there was no scrimping on portions.

The quality of food and the relaxed, friendly service make the Erskine Arms somewhere I'll definitely be heading back to again.