Taunton’s beloved Castle Green welcomes the revamped Mackenzie’s, breathing new life into the historic site of the Winchester Arms. The rustic yet swanky ambiance sets the stage for a laid-back dining experience, inviting patrons to relax and indulge in a leisurely afternoon.
Three years since its reopening, I ventured in to put their promise of casual dining to the test. As I settled at a cozy table, the warm and friendly atmosphere embraced me, welcoming both old friends catching up over a meal and colleagues engrossed in confidential conversations.
Embracing their commitment to “great gourmet burgers,” I opted for the Mackenzies Classic, a prime beef burger adorned with a slice of tomato and Monterey Jack Cheese. The presentation wowed with a generous portion of perfectly cooked fries sharing the plate with the substantial burger and a side of mixed salad.
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Taking on the sizable burger, I marveled at the well-cooked and flavorful six-ounce beef patty complemented by the cheese, tomato, and salad. A true delight, the burger showcased simplicity done to perfection, leaving me contemplating a return for a more adventurous selection—perhaps the tantalizing Firehouse burger.
While the burger shone, the skin-on fries left some room for improvement. Slightly undercooked, they could benefit from a touch more crispness and flavor, easily remedied with an extended cooking time and a dash of seasoning. The accompanying salad, however, left no room for complaint.
As I savored the delightful burger in the midst of work distractions, I couldn’t help but acknowledge the potential for Mackenzie’s to elevate their fries, akin to KFC’s successful revamp. Despite this, my experience left me willing and eager to revisit in the future.