Sun, Sangria and Spanish Tapas
This weekend we uncovered one of Cheshire’s beautiful gems; The Lilac Cottage. Though I wouldn’t describe The Lilac Cottage as a completely hidden gem, as it’s on the main road passing through Prestbury village. It is however understated and under explored. It’s a restaurant that hasn’t quite hit the foodie circles, and we are so excited to have been able to unearth it.
Lilac cottage is a family run Spanish Tapas restaurant. Owned and run by Haseena & her Husband, Felipe. First owned by her close friend Yasmin, who had a vision for an authentic tapas restaurant with live Spanish music. A place for the community to enjoy being together. A place where she too would be able to support local produce and business, to help each other thrive.
After the passing of Yasmin, The Cottage was acquired by new owners and slipped into disrepair. It became a place that people would go to drink, was dark and soulless. Looking at the place now, I cannot see how that would be possible. During lockdown, this treasure has been dusted off and given a new lease of life. There are lilacs draped around what was once a dingy corner. Flowers and twinkly lights covering the pillars and walls throughout. The tables are beautifully adorned with stencil art from a local artist. Upstairs holds a hidden Snug bar; soon to be a rum bar(See you there!). An outdoor courtyard with even more twinkly lights and seating. There is even a bowl for local businesses to drop their cards in to help spread the support for one another. It is very clear Haseena is proud of what she and the team have achieved in such a small amount of time. She should be. Its marvellous.
As we announced our arrival on Instagram (you know a queen loves to make an entrance) our (Free!!) Sangria was on ice waiting for us with our olives to nibble on when we got there. While scouring the menu, happily dancing in my seat, as if by magic, we had some homemade hummus and warm flatbreads brought to the table without even having to say anything! Beautiful touches like this really made your experience extra special.
Now, I’m not going to sit here and recite what we ordered and talk you through each dish. Not only because its embarrassing to talk you through the 27 dishes, but I’d rather let you browse the photos. I will however tell you each dish was beautiful. The ingredients were fresh. Dishes were cooked to order so no reheated mush. The Mussels are a showstopper. Huge and meaty (No smut please). That glazed pork belly – My. God! So tasty. I will also tell you, I’ve recommended The Lilac Cottage to family and friends already, so I have no hesitation in recommending you go too. Tell them Lost in Cheshire sent you!
Shortly after finishing we were sat enjoying the atmosphere, happy to be out again, wondering how I could do my top button up, Haseena pops over to tell us we NEEDED to try the Churros.. I could barely breathe, but because we’re such nice people we happily ordered their warm Churros with chocolate sauce, cinnamon and brown sugar. They were the perfect end to a perfect dinner.
This casual dining experiences is meant to be enjoyed by your whole family. It’s laidback and vibrant atmosphere will put you right at ease, and what’s even better – Kids under 5 eat for FREE at lunch times. Under 12s can get a smaller size portion with fries or rice… Making your children eat healthy has never been easier (unless using bribery of course, haha).
Thank you for having us Haseena & Felipe, it was an absolute delight to finally meet you!