WHAT? WHERE?

A gorgeous gastro pub that sits rather prettily just outside of Rye making it a mini rural retreat for foodies with a menu primarily featuring British produce and ingredients from local suppliers. What that really means is The Plough Rye ensures they source the absolute best of the best. And it’s us, the lucky diners, who benefit. There’s a large beer garden which can proudly boast of having incredible sweeping views of the Brede Valley where you can quite easily spend an entire afternoon looking out with a glass of English sparkling, if you’re that way inclined. Which Muddy very much is! 

THE VIBE

Patrons repeatedly comment on the warmth and friendliness of the staff, and it was no different on Muddy’s visit – you’re made to feel like a local even when you aren’t. Inside there’s every element you’d want from a cosy country pub – think log fires, beer tankards hanging from the bar and so on.

The colour palette features rich earthy tones, warming bronze, olive green and lots of natural materials. While beautifully comfy, there’s also plenty of light let in and when Muddy was there, the inside dining area was flooded by sunshine. Just the way we like it. 

SCOFF AND QUAFF

Just like its sister restaurant, The Union Rye, the pub is dedicated to fresh, local and British ingredients – considering Muddy’s raison d’etre is supporting local – this is music to my ears. Speaking of the senses, the menu was a feast for my eyes, oh ok and my stomach too! It offers inventive, modern dishes and changes every week so you’ll be sure to have the freshest ingredients.

There is however, dining for all tastebuds and ages – classic pub favourites such as fish and chips and burgers make an appearance but the team are more than happy to give every table extra attention and talk you through the choices with enthusiasm and expertise. It’s easy to tell here how much the team love their jobs and food, every part of the dining experience is executed with finesse. 

To commence, Muddy and my plus one ordered starters to share. First up were the smoked ham hock and Ashmore croquettes with garlic and soy mayonnaise, which were fluffy and full of flavour. Ensuring we kept to our five a day, (wine also counts, right?) we opted for the charred baby gem with soy mayo and crispy onions – simply delicious.

I couldn’t resist ordering mussels which were served exactly how I like them – in white wine, with garlic, parsley and lemon: a complete classic. Oh wait, they of course came with salty, crunchy fries – the ideal companion to dip in the sauce. I was in heaven. 

My guest went for the Caesar salad with buttermilk chicken (yum), baby gem, crispy bacon, white anchovy and a poached egg. He was suspiciously quiet which means it was good, make that very good.

To end things on a sweet note, we shared the vanilla panna cotta with confit orange amaretti with all the wobble we wanted, and we very much had to fight over it, after all it was spectacular. 

OUT AND ABOUT

The historic town of Rye is a short drive away where you can explore the cobbled streets and head for yet more delicious food at The Union Rye. Just 15 minutes away are the sand dunes of Camber Sands beach as well as the High Weald. Award-winning vineyards Oxney Organic and Tillingham Wines are both close where you’ll want to do a tasting day.

THE MUDDY VERDICT

GOOD FOR: Anyone after incredible food in stunning surroundings. You won’t want to miss the roasts! It’s dog friendly and families will enjoy being here too.

NOT FOR: If you’re in the mood for sharing plates head to sister venue, The Union Rye a short drive away.

The Plough Rye, Udimore Rd, Rye TN31 6AL