The Raby Hunt - Darlington

Amazing experience and the best tasting menu we've ever had . Wine pairing from and excellent sommelier topped off the evening .

We’ve driven past the sign for this place 100’s of times over the years, never took any notice until someone mentioned what it was. We’ve been lucky enough to visit some fabulous places for taster menus and got to say this one is now our joint first with midsummer house. The place itself is very quirky with the decor, the rooms were beautiful and absolutely spotless. Lots of lovely big towels in the bathroom and toiletries, comfy bed and pillows, well stocked mini bar, kettle and coffee machine and the most wonderful smelling reed diffuser. We pulled in to the car park and someone came out immediately to take our bags and greet us. We had a rather special glass of champagne before our taster menu started. We were shown to our table and the next couple of hours were phenomenal, every single course was truly delightful, as was the wine flight. There was also a little footstool to put your bag on. Every single member of the team were friendly and courteous, brilliant explanations of each dish and wine, absolutely stunning. Breakfast was a help yourself to fruit, the most amazing tomatoes that were thinly sliced with just a bit of salt and pepper on, cheese, home cooked tasty ham, smoked salmon, pan au chocolate, jams etc. choice of tea or coffee, grapefruit or orange juice, fresh water and a glass of champagne. Then bacon with either fried, poached or scrambled eggs on sourdough toast plus fresh toast on a separate plate. The young lady who served breakfast was such a lovely lady and even took the trouble to write down various recommendations of places to stay in Italy. We truly had the most amazing experience from start to finish, would definitely highly recommend. Nothing was too much trouble, staff fantastic, huge talent on the food and wine side. We would love to go back when the menu changes. Simply one of the best

My family and I had a wonderful dining experience at this restaurant. They were able to accommodate all six of us, making it a special meal for my birthday. The food was delicious, with each course being a flavorful delight. The attention to detail in the ingredients, flavors, and presentation was exceptional. I am amazed at the amount of effort and time that must go into preparing each dish. I highly recommend this restaurant for a unique and unforgettable dining experience. I truly enjoyed it.

We dined at the kitchen table so did battle with high stools as seems the norm everywhere. The food was really excellent. You cannot really see the kitchen due to the way it’s set up so you really only see them do some of the plating. And maybe you get a bit more info than if you were in the main restaurant. We would have liked a bit more interaction with staff though but it was not really on offer.

Amazing as always! Our first time at the chef’s table. My daughter and I love this restaurant and it’s a treat twice a year for us. It’s impossible to single out one course as the best as they are all brilliant! We spend the next...