Autumn 2020

35 Nov19020 Finessed Fusion A quiet village in the heart of Cambridgeshire might not seem the natural place to establish a Mediterranean Fusion restaurant, but the Belle has made its name from it. Leaving no one behind, the team have created a place which all can enjoy, bringing the old to life and making it new again. With such delicacy and grace, the team’s success in 2019’s Food and Drink Awards, where they were named Best Mediterranean Fusion Restaurant – Cambridgeshire is no surprise. We looked more closely to find out more. Nestled in Bassingbourn, a village community situated in South Cambridgeshire, the Belle has been part and parcel of life for decades. It has a history all its own. Named after the B-17 Memphis Belle that was stationed in Bassingbourn during the Second World War, this delightful restaurant and bar has proven to be a hub for those wanting to find something a little different from the norm. Famed for its fusion, combining Mediterranean style with a typically English palate, the Belle has gone from strength to strength. At the heart of the menu, like all good restaurants, is the food. Carefully cooked in a simple fashion, the tastes and flavours of locally and sustainable sourced ingredients are brought to the fore by delicate cooking. The exceptional Head Chef ensures that each part of every meal is perfected, with only the best meals possible making their way to diners. The menu is adjusted regularly, adapting to what the season supplies. While a fusion restaurant, the team still serve an extraordinary Sunday Lunch, something which must be tasted to be believed. With such a variety of choices, there’s something to please everyone who comes to visit the Belle. Of course, while the food is key, so is the bar and this aspect is well- stocked indeed. An endless list of gins, spirits and exotic cocktails make this the perfect place to relax on a Sunday afternoon, to celebrate a special achievement or to host the party to end all parties. In the comfortable surroundings of a refurbished public house, the atmosphere is homely and warm. Charming examples of wall art surround you, with quirky furniture that brings the traditional environment to life. Instead of a place that is dark and dingy, the vibrance of the location encourages friendly chatter and polite conversation. It’s no surprise that the Belle has become firmly established as one of the heartlands of the local community. So, to those wanting to relax and take in what the Belle has to offer, there is plenty of time. With two bars on hand, and a private dining room, guests are invited to sup a beer or taste one of the splendid wines, to settle into an armchair with friends or appreciate the fresh air in the Pinkster garden. Like all restaurants, the Belle is currently closed because of COVID-19. When the virus passes and the pandemic abates, however, it will still be there. Attentive staff will be on hand to serve the delicacies that have made this eatery one of the foremost in the area. Customers will once again sit back on comfortable sofas and patrons will tuck into delicious courses of fusion cuisine. Change comes slowly to village life, and the Belle will soon take its place at the heart of Bassingbourn, once again. Company: The Belle Contact: David Catling fe