The Geese & Fountain

It’s more than two years since I last wrote about the Geese & Fountain in Croxton Kerrial. However, on reflection, it seems we behaved precisely the same on this visit as on our previous one.

Nestled in a particularly rolling part of the Leicestershire countryside, just beyond the Rural Capital of Food, Melton Mowbray, the Geese & Fountain is a welcoming pub. Well kept beers, a jolly landlord and comfortable accommodation awaits. A particular commitment to local sourcing means both the bar and the menu hold a treat in waiting for the dedicated foodie.

A Fine Leicestershire Pub

As per our last visit, we all eschewed the tempting sounding menus in preference of the burger special. A nettle pasta, evening pizza menu, ‘Trishcake’ fishcake served with a Pernod cream and tomato salsa all turned my head. The slow roasted duck leg and beef stroganoff with orzo each held the promise of significant culinary charm. But when presented with a Dexter beef burger as a ‘Sloppy Dexter’ topped with homemade chilli, jalapenos and a crisp slice of deep fried mozzarella one finds it impossible to resist.

So four burger specials for table 4 it was. We ruminated over the menu whilst enjoying a pint of Brewsters’ delicious Krafty Kiwi pale ale out in the extensive grounds of the pub. We soaked in the golden rays of the last of the Leicestershire sunshine, but were then assailed by fruit flies with whom we were unwilling to share our beer.

Back inside we waited for our food and were considering a game of darts. However we were pipped to the oche by members of the local darts team. So we remained seated, shooting the breeze with Nick and Kate, the dynamic duo behind this wonderful pub.

The Sloppy Dexter

Before our meals arrived we were treated to delightful warm homemade bread and a bowl of marinated olives. Quite frankly, one hunk of bread is never enough. This is even though I knew that my main course would be more food than one should sensibly eat in one sitting.

And sure enough, this great glory of a burger was a behemoth of flavour and texture. Exquisite duck fat chips and a simple but pleasing side salad accompanied this giant burger. A well made semi-brioche bun had enough structure to hold The Sloppy Dexter together. The deep fried mozzarella was served, incredibly sensibly, on the side so that the crisp panko breadcrumb was not besoddened by the rich and tangy chilli. It was absolutely glorious. I would possibly go so far as to say it’s the best burger I’ve had since I was in California. The home of the undisputed burger masters in my humble opinion.

Can’t keep away

I promise that have managed to order something different on other occasions at The Geese & Fountain. I heartily recommend the homely Sunday lunch. Some of it is made with produce that can be seen wandering the fields next door.

In fact I heartily recommend a visit to this wonderful pub full stop. Foodies, beer lovers, lovers of live music and more besides are catered for in this lively heart of its community. Over 90 gins, and even a Perseid Meteor Shower Watching Party in the gardens are on offer. And of course, today it has been shortlisted for a Great Food Club Award. Richly deserved. Although they find themselves against stiff competition I hope that the nomination will gain them the recognition they deserve.