Review: The Winter Garden

Review

THE WINTER GARDEN

The Style of Wight team entered new popup concept The Winter Garden in Cowes not sure what to expect, but we were instantly enchanted

Owner Jack Anselm established Cowes-based Captain Takeout, including Captain Pizza and Captain Doughnut, during the summer. Expanding on this takeaway success, he and partner Miriam Simpson have now created a magical environment on the waterfront at the Island Sailing Club. Here, groups of up to six can relax in safe, cosy cabins, beside giant trees and underneath a starry sky of fairy lights. The food is served in boxes, making it easy to take away if you can’t finish everything. From a tempting range of homemade sourdough pizzas, we chose the very tasty, and slightly healthier Dolce Vita ‘cut it out’, with salad replacing the pizza’s centre. Their sourdough and tomato sauce are made fresh daily using local ingredients, and child-size, vegan or gluten-free options are available. Designed to share, the winter grazing boxes are ideal to pick at over a glass of wine. The Christmas box contained delicious homemade ham hock terrine, pigs in blankets, cheese, Christmas chutney and many other goodies. The meat and special sausage mix come from The Butcher Shop in Cowes, and there’s also Charcuterie, Isle of Wight Cheese, and Vegan boxes. For pudding, the Sweet box didn’t disappoint, filled with plenty of treats including fresh warm doughnuts, cookies, mince pies and macaroons to indulge in. The wine menu is extensive, and during the festive season children can join Father Christmas at the Christmas Grotto, while adults enjoy a mulled wine. Open daily from noon to 10pm, The Winter Garden is a space where you can forget about the world outside, and just enjoy good food and quality time with friends and family. Plan to pop in soon, the experience will bring a welcome sparkle to any winter’s day.