Gastro-pub fare on track with GNER

Two of the country's top gastro pubs are getting a burst of publicity across the length of the UK since their menus began appearing in the dining rooms on long-distance trains.

GNER, which operates trains between London and Edin-burgh, recently updated the menu for its restaurant cars to include dishes from well-known food pubs, such as the Anchor & Hope near Waterloo, London, and the Blue Lion in East Witton, North Yorkshire.

Although the pubs are not paid to have their meals included, there are definite benefits in terms of publicity.

"The advantage for us is in marketing," said Anchor & Hope manager Rob Shaw. "People would see our menu while they are on the train and also read about it in the [GNER] magazine."

A spokesman for GNER said: "This collaboration recognises the rise of the gastro-pub phenomenon and celebrates the fact that pubs are now offering some of the best food in Britain.

"In true gastro-pub style, the new menu presents updated versions of much-loved classics as well as some imaginative, modern British dishes."

Far from the usual train food fare, items from the Anchor & Hope menu include chicken and bacon terrine with shallots, wrapped with Savoy cabbage and served with sweet chutney. This is followed by baked duck leg, and crème caramel made with Sauternes pudding wine for dessert.

The Blue Lion menu features poached haddock on sliced potato with oyster mushrooms, plus leaks grilled with mature cheddar cheese as starter; beef and onion suet pudding cooked with herbs and Guinness for the main; and baked apple crumble dessert.