THE CAPTAINS WIFE | FOOD REVIEW
Beach Road, Swanbridge, Penarth. 029 2053 0066 / www.vintageinn.co.uk
The Captains Wife was, in centuries past, called Sully House and owned by a sea captain. Legend has it that when his wife died, her body was kept in a box, which was mistaken for treasure and stolen. Well, given it’s on the coast and has easy access to the channel, it may well be true! In its 21st century incarnation, The Captains Wife is a typical country pub and restaurant, with plenty of charm, with manager Richard ensuring that it maintains its rustic charms.
Anyone who lives locally to this inn has probably been going there for years, as it’s renowned for its freshly prepared daily fish and chips and steak. There is an extensive menu offering hearty pies, homemade favourites plus special platters on certain nights.
On our recent visit, we went for the fish of the day choice, pollack and chips, plus the daily special: homemade shepherd’s pie served with ‘special’ chips or mash, obligatory mushy peas, and a heap of onion rings. As per usual, there was splendid service by lovely staff, and of course the food was great. Plenty of space inside, but with cheeky little cosy nooks and crannies to sit in, you can easily lose a few hours chatting, eating and chilling out.
Not overly expensive, The Captains Wife is a midweek special treat that’s affordable enough to do most weeks. With such a picturesque location right next to the beach, it’s a perfect place to relax on a summer’s evening watching the sun set.
words ANTONIA LEVAY
