Ashley G.
Yelp
Having being to Nomad twice before (one #norules, one regular menu) me and the wife had very high expectations for The Wilderness (on our 5th anniversary - clang). I'm delighted to report that the quality has actually stepped up a level and this is definitely Nomad 2.0.
Alex is a legend - I'm always proud when a local chef does something incredible. Tough times recently, first with the Tripadvisor issues at Nomad, then the legal battles, and now the no shows for #norules. But he still executes dishes perfectly, with a smile on his face!
There's more consistency with the menu now, rather than changing every few days (as Nomad previously did) and I think this helps the development and quality of the dishes.
Decor is stunning - proper tables and chairs! The lush greenery gives you that element of escapism, which I imagine is what The Wilderness is going for.
The rest of the staff are awesome, a French waiter who was very friendly and engaging and another guy who was extremely knowledgable about the dishes being served.
See my photo for the menu - the first 5 courses escalated in deliciousness as we went on, culminating in the lamb which was one of the best lamb dishes I've ever had, with a perfect accompaniment of green beans, a midget tree and a smooth pea purée. The lamb itself was melt in the mouth, perfectly pink and seasoned to perfection. Special nod to the crispy chicken skin, and the ash on the sea bass - both mind-blowingly tasty.
And also a word for the ant dish - whilst the theatre of the ants is certainly very cool, the actual dish itself is totally gorgeous. Cheesy, gooey with a bit of crunch and sharpness from the shallot. I recommend mixing the ants on the plate into the dish as it gives it a lovely citrus hit as you're eating.
Also went for the drinks flight - not a standard wine flight (bonus) and included vodka and tonic, green gimlet (one of my fave cocktails) and the most incredibly delicious dessert wines ive ever tasted.
Overall a complete experience for the senses and one I'll be rushing back to try again when the Autumn menu is ready!!!