As autumn paints Eastbourne shades of gold and amber, our kitchens are getting ready to savour the season through unforgettable dining experiences. In the elegant Mirabelle Restaurant, warming dishes crafted from the finest local produce capture the comforting flavours of autumn. Meanwhile, The Garden Room offers a relaxed setting, the perfect backdrop for leisurely Sunday lunches or sunset suppers. We catch up with Executive Head Chef Hrvoje, who shares his inspiration and insights as he prepares to showcase the very best of seasonal dining this autumn at The Grand Hotel, Eastbourne.
Which seasonal ingredient are you most excited to showcase this autumn, and why?
My favourite ingredients are root vegetables, pumpkin and squash. This will feature across our autumn & winter menus, as they are at their best at this time of year. They add so much depth of flavour and colour to any dish.
Can you tell us about a new autumn dish on the menu, that you are particularly proud of?
The Venison & Herb Scotch Egg, with Dijon Mustard Hollandaise. We use the finest venison sausage meat from Sussex, and it sums of the season perfectly - warm and comforting, while still luxurious.
Are there any traditional autumn flavours or dishes that you've reimagined with a modern twist?
A traditional feather blade steak is popular at this time of year. We have reimagined it into a comforting and warming pot pie!
How does the change in season affect the way that you design the dining experience?
I think when autumn comes, people look for filling and hearty dishes. We aim to create meals that will warm your soul and leave you feeling cosy.
What wine pairings do you recommend with your new autumn dishes?
The Braised Feather Blade Steak Pot Pie would go wonderfully with a good rich red wine, something like a Rioja or Malbec.
For guests looking to create some autumn flavours at home, do you have a simple seasonal cooking tip or ingredients to recommend?
Using a slow cooker - these can elevate your dishes to the next level. Think of squashes in a curry, stew or a nice hearty soup - yum!