The Velveteen Plum has gained a reputation as a cozy, refined spot offering a unique blend of modern comfort food and globally inspired dishes. Known for its creative menu and charming ambiance, the restaurant appeals to both casual diners and food enthusiasts seeking bold flavors in a relaxed setting. Every dish is thoughtfully prepared with attention to freshness, seasonality, and presentation. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, dinner, or just a small plate with a craft cocktail, The Velveteen Plum delivers a dining experience that feels both inviting and elevated.
Seasonal Starters and Small Plates
The menu at The Velveteen Plum opens with a variety of shareable starters and small plates that emphasize local produce and artisanal ingredients. These selections change seasonally, highlighting ingredients at their peak while keeping the experience fresh for returning guests.
Popular Small Plates
- Charred Carrot Hummus: Topped with spiced seeds and served with warm flatbread and raw vegetables.
- Crispy Mushroom Fritters: Lightly battered oyster mushrooms with a smoky paprika aioli.
- Beetroot Tartare: A vegetarian twist on the classic, served with capers, shallots, and sourdough crisps.
- Lamb Kofta Skewers: Juicy grilled lamb with mint yogurt and pickled onions.
Each appetizer is crafted to spark conversation and curiosity, perfect for guests who want to explore the menu’s variety in smaller portions.
Hearty and Inventive Main Courses
Main courses at The Velveteen Plum reflect the restaurant’s commitment to bold flavors, high-quality proteins, and plant-forward options. Guests can expect a balance between comforting classics and contemporary interpretations of international dishes.
Signature Entrees
- Seared Duck Breast: Served with parsnip purée, roasted plums, and a red wine glaze.
- Grilled Cauliflower Steak: Topped with tahini dressing, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pine nuts.
- Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs: Braised in stout beer and served over creamy polenta.
- Harissa Roasted Chicken: With chickpea stew, preserved lemon, and grilled broccolini.
Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer vegetarian cuisine, the mains are satisfying and thoughtfully composed, combining texture, seasoning, and visual appeal.
Fresh and Flavorful Salads
The salad offerings at The Velveteen Plum go beyond the ordinary. These are full-fledged dishes that can stand on their own or accompany other menu items. Seasonal greens, vibrant toppings, and house-made dressings make these choices both nourishing and exciting.
Noteworthy Salad Options
- Shaved Fennel & Citrus Salad: With blood orange segments, arugula, and honey vinaigrette.
- Warm Grain Bowl: Quinoa, farro, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a lemon herb dressing.
- Roasted Beet & Goat Cheese Salad: Mixed greens, candied walnuts, and balsamic glaze.
These salads are popular choices for lighter meals or as vibrant additions to a more robust table spread.
Creative Brunch Selections
The weekend brunch at The Velveteen Plum is a local favorite, featuring a playful and indulgent mix of sweet and savory dishes. The brunch menu continues the restaurant’s philosophy of using fresh ingredients in imaginative ways.
Brunch Favorites
- Ricotta Hotcakes: Fluffy pancakes with lemon zest, berry compote, and whipped maple butter.
- Smoked Salmon Benedict: Poached eggs, hollandaise, and arugula on toasted brioche.
- Miso Mushroom Toast: Sourdough with sautéed mushrooms, soft egg, and sesame drizzle.
- Crispy Potato Rösti: Topped with avocado salsa, crème fraîche, and microgreens.
Whether you prefer a traditional breakfast plate or something more experimental, brunch at The Velveteen Plum offers variety and quality that keeps customers coming back.
Decadent Desserts and Sweet Finishes
No visit to The Velveteen Plum is complete without trying one of its handcrafted desserts. Balancing sweetness with texture and often including a hint of unexpected spice or salt, these creations are both elegant and comforting.
Dessert Highlights
- Salted Caramel Tart: With a chocolate crust and whipped crème fraîche.
- Olive Oil Cake: Served with citrus glaze, rosemary syrup, and mascarpone cream.
- Sticky Date Pudding: Rich and warm with toffee sauce and vanilla bean ice cream.
- Seasonal Fruit Crumble: A rotating selection topped with oat streusel and custard.
Each dessert reflects the care and creativity that defines the entire menu. Ideal for sharing or savoring solo, these sweet options are a delightful way to end your meal.
Thoughtful Plant-Based Options
The Velveteen Plum makes a dedicated effort to accommodate vegetarian and vegan diners with dishes that are not just substitutions but fully realized recipes. From starters to desserts, plant-based choices are inventive and satisfying.
Vegan-Friendly Menu Choices
- Smoked Eggplant Dip: With toasted pita, fresh herbs, and lemon zest.
- Jackfruit Tacos: Marinated in spices, served with cabbage slaw and lime crema.
- Chickpea & Sweet Potato Curry: Fragrant with coconut milk, turmeric, and ginger.
- Dark Chocolate Avocado Mousse: Silky and rich with almond brittle on top.
These options are crafted with as much care and flavor as the rest of the menu, ensuring that all guests can enjoy a memorable meal.
Craft Beverages and Pairings
The beverage menu at The Velveteen Plum includes a thoughtful list of cocktails, wines, craft beers, and non-alcoholic options. Every drink is selected to pair well with the food or serve as a stand-alone indulgence.
Highlights from the Drink Menu
- House Infused Cocktails: Featuring fresh herbs, seasonal fruits, and artisanal spirits.
- Local Wines and Ciders: A rotating selection to support regional producers.
- Mocktails and Herbal Tonics: Creative non-alcoholic beverages with complexity and depth.
- Hand-Poured Coffee: Featuring single-origin beans and crafted espresso drinks.
These drinks are designed to complement the menu while enhancing the overall dining experience. Staff are always available to offer pairing suggestions based on your order and preferences.
The Velveteen Plum menu is a carefully curated exploration of flavor, comfort, and creativity. From its vibrant small plates to rich desserts and specialty beverages, the restaurant offers something for every palate while maintaining a focus on quality ingredients and seasonal inspiration. Whether you’re looking for an elegant dinner, a lively brunch, or a relaxed evening with shared plates and cocktails, The Velveteen Plum delivers a memorable dining experience with thoughtful service and exceptional taste. For those seeking a restaurant that celebrates both innovation and warmth, The Velveteen Plum continues to shine as a true culinary gem.