We visit Oulton Broad's latest modern, fresh and inviting restaurant, The Copper Smokehouse.
Food
The menu does exactly what it says on the tin (sorry copper). It's meat, meat and more meat, however vegetarians don't get forgotten.
We noticed the mains were huge, so shied away from starters. I was a bit upset not to be sampling the smoked ham hock croquettes, but maybe next time. My husband was drawn to the Smokehouse Special Burger, topped with BBQ pulled pork, smoked hock, smoked sausage and smoked cheddar. Yes, there's a whole lot of smokin' going on! But for him that's the ultimate burger.
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It was huge and each individual aroma came through, blending together well.
The meat was really juicy and flavoursome. He also opted for a side portion of onion rings, again generous and not at all greasy. Our friend chose the 14oz T-bone Steak. It was the most expensive item on the menu at £28, but one of the best steaks going and was absolutely delectable.
I wanted to try a little bit of everything so shared the Copper Smokehouse Sharing Combo with my friend. A minimum of two people are required for this feast and you have to prepare yourself for a meat overload. Dry rubbed, cooked low and slow from the smoker, it was a feast for the eyes.
Sliced brisket, barbecue ribs, pulled pork, smoked sausage, burnt ends, chicken wings, beans, fries, corn and slaw (starting to understand why I couldn't have a starter?). I couldn't fault any of it. All the meat was succulent, tender and beautifully cooked. It was clear it was smoked yet each piece of meat had a different flavour. My favourite had to be the brisket which melted in my mouth. On par was the smoked sausage. A sticky maple glaze gave it a unique flavour and it was syrupy and smooth.
I'd never had burnt ends, so was excited to try them. They were enjoyable but by no means a show stopper, although ideal for an afternoon nibble with a tipple!
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Probably not. I was extremely stuffed but how can you not give in to temptation?
I'd never tried one and it was the perfect balance of pecans, salted caramel and clotted cream ice cream. I had died and gone to pecan heaven!
Ambience
It was good to see a new restaurant so busy. Upon arrival it was slightly crowded in the entrance. As you walk in the bar is immediately to the right. We found ourselves mixed in with those waiting at the bar, when we just wanted to say we were here for our table, although I would imagine on a quieter night this wouldn't be an issue.
Drink
There's a very accommodating wine list, bottles are priced very reasonably and we opted for the pinot grigio priced at £16.50.
Service
The staff were friendly, inviting and really attentive to begin with, however we could only see three staff members waiting on tables and with two large parties in, as well as many other covers this didn't seem enough to attentively serve tables. We felt a little forgotten after we had been given the dessert menu and it did take too long for us to be served, however it did mean having time to digest my main so this is something I should probably have been grateful for.
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The loos are small but very clean and fresh. there are only two toilets one for men and one for women, so on busy nights, you can expect to queue, nevertheless this is just part and parcel of a smaller restaurant and not something that bothers me.
Location
Set back just past the marina and backing onto the beautiful Nicholas Everitt Park. It's a very charming spot, especially during the summer with views across the marina on the approach. Equally as charming is the view of the park - the focal point for al fresco dining in the large decked out courtyard.
Parking
The restaurant doesn't have a car park, only street parking which is very limited. However the park has a car park, with small charges and after 6pm this is free, it's a stone's throw from the restaurant.
Price
The mains were all reasonably priced and considering the portion sizes it's definitely value for money. Mains range from £10 to £16, unless you opt for the T-bone or sharing combo. I did think £6.50 for the pecan was a little pricey, but definitely worth it!
Highlight
For me the highlight was definitely the sharing combo and being able to sample the majority of what the restaurant has to offer. Perfect for date night or sharing with a friend.
In Summary
The Copper Smokehouse is a great new edition to the Waveney eating list and what's more is that you don't have to venture to the city to find something that's a little different. It's a smokin' meat spectacular that will leave your tastebuds dancing for joy and fulfil your meat intake for the week!
This is an independent review.
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