Citylife in Lichfield September 2023

Oozing with Rustic Charm!
By Kristen Lackajis
Whether grabbing a light bite, or sitting down to a heavier
meal, there’s something about lunch that I absolutely
love! Not too early in the morning, and plenty of time to
recover before evening, it is definitely my favourite meal of the day!
Therefore, I was delighted to be invited along to Thyme Kitchen at
Curborough, on the outskirts of Lichfield, to enjoy a bite to eat.
The restaurant bistro is a delight in itself. Tucked away in a corner of
the courtyard, this converted former barn is full of character and period
charm. Beautiful oak beamed ceilings and brick fireplaces hark back to the
farming era, while contemporary touches such as the inlaid spotlights and
light paintwork bring the eatery bang up to date!
The food itself is a celebration of all things fresh and local, and not only
does it taste incredible, but it looks stunning too! Having stared at the
menu deliberating, supping a glass of Pinot Grigio, and turning the poor
waitress away at least twice while I tried to make my choice, I finally
settled on a dish which has both featured in, and been recommended by,
the Sunday Times Style Magazine. Herby Corn Fritters, accompanied by
spicy tomato jam, Greek yoghurt, coriander and a free range poached egg
just sounded too good to miss out on. Add bacon? Of course I did! Plus,
a portion of chorizo for good measure!
Totally divine, incredibly moreish, and just the most delightfully pretty
plate I had ever seen (edible flowers!), this really hit the spot.
My guest was equally bowled over by his choice of a Breakfast Naan,
which arrived bursting with all our morning favourites of sausage, bacon,
fried egg, and spicy tomato jam, but also had Greek yoghurt, coriander
and nigella seeds to give it a refreshing twist. And yes, more beautiful
edible flowers here too!
To say we were stuffed to the gills by the generous portions was an
understatement, however we boldly soldiered on and decided that the
only way to round off such a wonderful lunch out, was with a cinnamon
swirl bun! Soft, sweet and spicy all at the same time, topped with oodles
of frosting, we made light work of it, savouring every warming bite – the
perfect autumnal treat!
Thyme Kitchen at Curborough Countryside Centre serves breakfast,
brunch and lunch from 10am-3pm Tuesday to Saturday, cakes and coffee
from 10am-4pm Tuesday to Sunday, and on a Sunday it offers brunch from
10am-12.15pm, and a Sunday roast from 1pm-3pm.
If has a fully licensed bar area, a takeaway option for its cakes and
pastries, plus there is a beautifully decorated private function room
available for special occasions.
Every month, Thyme Kitchen hosts Sauce Supper Club - a guest chef pop-up
event which features some of the UK’s top chefs.
Find out more at www.thymekitchen.co.uk or find it at Curborough
Countryside Centre, Watery Lane, Lichfield, WS13 8ES.
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