As the golden hour settled over the idyllic countryside just outside Bath, we arrived at the Homewood Hotel & Spa, nestled in the charming village of Freshford. After winding through lush, green country roads, we stepped into a serene world far removed from the city’s hustle.
Homewood, a four-star retreat renowned for its spa facilities and stunning views of North Somerset, was hosting a unique dining event called La Taberna—an intimate, Mediterranean-inspired fine dining experience set inside a festival-style marquee.
Our arrival was greeted with glasses of champagne and an invitation to relax in an outdoor lounge space that opened onto the enchanting grounds. Vibrant feather flags fluttered gently, a playful bear-shaped hedge added whimsy, and a tree canopy lent the setting a magical, festival-like atmosphere.
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La Taberna distinguishes itself by being more than just a meal—it is a social journey. Sharing this experience with other guests, including a warm family from Iowa, quickly felt like joining a convivial community.
The highlight begins before dinner is served: a guided tour of the garden where much of the evening’s ingredients are cultivated. Chef Matthew Bramley leads the way, sharing the story of how the garden started with just five plots in 2020 and has been flourishing ever since.
Guests sampled ripe strawberries, wandered through wildflower meadows, and learned about the sustainable “no-dig” gardening method used to protect the soil, along with an organic, pesticide-free approach that ensures the freshest produce.
Back in the marquee, fresh-picked wildflowers adorned beautifully set tables, some even attracting curious bees, adding a touch of nature’s whimsy to the scene.
One side of the marquee is open, allowing guests to watch the chef’s artistry—the dance of fire and smoke, the precise preparation of each course—turning dining into a captivating performance.
The meal began with a beautifully arranged Charcuterie board featuring fresh vegetables, cured meats, and courgette flowers. The courgette flower, tender and lightly battered, revealed a delicious surprise of ricotta cheese, transforming vegetables into a tempting treat.
The main course was a joyful celebration of Mediterranean flavors: fragrant paella, butterfly sardines served with a spicy tapenade, and incredibly tender pork that became the unanimous favorite. A fresh cheese and courgette salad provided the perfect, cooling counterpoint for the summer evening.
For a spice-sensitive diner, the zing of the sardine’s peppery tapenade was a daring but delightful new taste experience. Curiosity led to a playful question about whether the sardine tails were edible—an example of how approachable and communal the atmosphere felt.
Dessert was a luscious meringue floating in a thick berry compote, adorned with redcurrants, blackberries, and chunks of crystalline honeycomb. A birthday guest was honored with a special plate of truffles, a sweet and personal touch from the chef.
The evening closed with a “cello”—a tart, concentrated shot of vodka offered in lemon, lime, or orange flavors. Selecting lime, I savored the final flourish as twilight deepened and we reluctantly made our way home.
La Taberna is more than just dining; it’s an immersive culinary adventure. From touring the garden plots to chatting with the chef, tasting fresh strawberries, and recognizing the flowers on your table, the experience is a richly woven tapestry of nature, craftsmanship, and conviviality.