Fox & Willow
Al Fresco Dining
46 Carrick Rd, Ayr KA7 2RB
For the ultimate boutique gastropub experience, The Fox and Willow, situated in the leafy suburbs of Ayr, is the place to be. Whether brunching in the bright and airy terrace, lunching in the relaxed restaurant space, enjoying a couple of drinks with friends in the garden area, or cosying up in one of the domes which offers a unique and private dining experience, there’s a place and a menu for you. Food aside, The Fox and Willow also boasts two unique bars: The Fox Bar which serves everything from classic cocktails to craft beers, and the more flamboyant Peacock Lounge where you can relax and enjoy a chilled, private club atmosphere with friends.
When it comes to food, though, British classics and global influences can be seen across the different menus, delivering stylish dishes that are thoughtfully prepared. It’s worth noting that the vegan menu offers a particularly inspired selection of dishes which are significantly better than many of the alternatives nearby. Embracing the growing interest in plant-based food, the Fox and Willow has hosted sell-out vegan tasting nights which highlight the talent in the kitchen and showcase some of the tastiest meat free dishes in town. They’re one of many special events hosted to offer customers something new and exciting with Boozy Brunches, Tex Mex BBQs and Reef, Beef and Bubbles all set to sell out fast over the summer months too.
What’s refreshing about the menus on offer is the inclusion of dishes which are just a little bit different. On the breakfast menu, for example, you can find firm favourites such as Eggs Benedict, the Fox grill (what a feed) and cinnamon French toast, but you’ll also find more inspired offerings such as the toasted Greek Pitta bread which comes topped with smashed avocado, crumbled nduja sausage, poached eggs, tzatziki and pickled red onions.
Similarly, on the all-day menu, you’ll see many familiar dishes. However, they’re delivered with a creative twist, influenced by far flung cuisines. You can have fried chicken for starters but it comes Korean style with a fresh ginger spiced marinade, gochujang, spring onions, sesame seeds and fresh chilli. Likewise, you’ll find a pork fillet on the menu, but it’s filled with blue cheese, wrapped in Parma ham and served with a potato and celeriac rosti with a wild garlic aioli. It’s true gastropub food at its best; hearty, well-executed and utterly delicious.
thefoxandwillow.com
