The Oarsman Marlow: A Review

The Oarsman Marlow is a well-known little gastropub in the town centre. I wanted to see what all the hype was all about and, my goodness, did it live up to the reputation. Here is my review of this Buckinghamshire gem.

The Oarsman Marlow Atmosphere

We arrived at the Oarsman Marlow at around 18:00. It was relatively quiet and we were greeted by our waitress. She led us to our table, which was right by the window that led to the Deck, which looked really cool and perfect for summer drinks!

The interior was a fusion of French Bistro and a New York industrial style. There were khaki booths with navy panelling above, making the atmosphere moody yet exclusive. I also really loved the artwork and flooring styles; it really added to the overall atmosphere.

With a gin and tonic in hand and a few little bar snacks (see below), I could not have been happier. I immediately felt pampered and at home and could tell I was in for a night to remember.

The Food: Barsnacks

When we sat down, our lovely waitress brought us the menu. With so many options for the barsnacks, we just had to ask for her opinion. Apparently, the parmesan and black truffle gougère is legendary amongst regulars and we just had to try it. Also, I’m a sucker for olives, so I ordered them too.

The gougère and olives arrived shortly after ordering them. It looked like a profiterole and a cheese scone merged into one. On top of it was a cheesy crown that just begged to be eaten. I broke into it and saw a creamy cheese filling, all encased in a choux pastry casing. It was divine and, at just under £2.00, was an utter steal. As far as I’m concerned, I would go back for this alone, not to mention the other amazing food.

The olives were also very tasty and covered in a slightly spicy tomato sauce. They came in a generous portion too and were perfect for nibbling whilst we waited.

The Food: Starters

Time for the second course now and on to the Starters. My husband’s eye had caught the buratta, served with raw red cabbage and Glasgow honey. I however was tempted by the Porchetta Tonnato,a cold cut pork dish.

They arrived in style and were wonderfully presented. My dish looked almost like slightly pink ribbons, with tiny specks of greens. The meat was extremely light, slightly salty and very tasty. The meat was just so easy to eat and I really enjoyed it. There was also a subtle oily sauce with it, which made the moistened and seasoned the meat.

The buratta was very special. When you think of cheese with raw cabbage, it shouldn’t work. But with the Glasgow honey, it was transformed into a truly magical dish. The chef is clearly a wizard as the combination here was just perfect. I was left thinking, if this is the starter, what on earth will the main be like?

The Food: Mains

Now onto the main event! We opted for the sirloin steak dish to share, served with onion rings, sauces and fries. Our waitress suggested that we also add in the crispy potato, ‘nduja and garlic. Apparently this side is a core dish of the Oarsman Marlow and is extremely popular.

The large steak arrived wonderfully decorated and perfectly pink. There was a feast in front of us, with a plethora of onion rings and fried potato – yummy! We also had three sauces brought out. We were treated to the classic peppercorn and béarnaise, but talso a creamy sauce with a spicy sausage topping.

I am amazed that we ate all of it. The meat was perfect and succulent and I could not get enough. The crispy potato was an amazing choice and, with the spicy sausage sauce, made for an irresistible side. Even the fries were incredible. I am however most surprised that, whilst I was full, it was not uncomfortable, which is always a good sign. It shows that the food was an optimum portion, but that I also had time for dessert…

The Food: Dessert

With room in our bellies still, we were ready for dessert. Whilst I was tempted by pretty much everything, we decided to go for our two favourites and share. First up was the warm chocolate mousse, served with praline and vanilla ice cream. I however had my eyes on the almond clafoutis, which also came with vanilla ice cream. Each clafoutis is made to order, so there is a short wait with each one.

We were treated to a lovely coffee whilst we waited. This came in a gorgeous ceramic mug, which I am determined to buy in the New Year.

Shortly after, our desserts came. My clafoutis was served in a charming little rustic frying pan. It was so light and fluffy and was the perfect way to end the meal.

The chocolate mousse was rich and creamy and had a nutty taste to it. Both of the desserts lived up to the Oarsman’s high standards and it was a shame that our experience had ended.

The Service

I actually want to shout-out the staff at the Oarsman Marlow. Our waitress, who served us most of the evening, was just excellent. She was warm and friendly, but also highly knowledgeable and professional. Everyone else we met there also offered the highest possible standard of service. It just added to the luxurious atmosphere that we had experienced throughout the evening.

The Oarsman Marlow: The Verdict

When we arrived, we were told to sit down, relax and enjoy the food and atmosphere. To say that we did that would be an understatement. This charming little gastropub offers something truly unique and special in Marlow. It would be lying if I said that it wasn’t one of the finest culinary experiences I’ve ever had.

Now just to book my table again for the next birthday…

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The Oarsman Marlow: A Review