The Rusty Keg has relocated recently and the food certainly lived up to its beautiful new surroundings
Sheena is the Editor of Belfast Live and was one of the first reporters recruited for the launch of the brand in 2015.
Cookstown has never been short of great places to eat or drink for a night out, and now the choice has expanded further with the opening of new eatery The Rusty Keg. Technically, it’s not entirely new and has relocated from the nearby village of Pomeroy to take up residence in what was once the well-known Gaslight Bar.
Having heard rave reviews about The Rusty Keg, we decided to give it a go and see what the fuss was about. As it was the weekend, we heard it was important to pre-book, so we chose 6pm, and I couldn’t get over it when we arrived, the place was pretty full with a mixture of smaller groups, couples and even some larger party-size tables.
The interior was beautiful and homely, and a cool layout with tables on a split level. When handed the menu, the first thing that struck me was the choice and variety; I literally couldn’t decide, as so many of the dishes sounded incredible.
What we ordered:
Drinks: A Passionfruit Martini for me and Coca-Cola for the designated driver.
Starters: Breaded Mushrooms
Salt and Chilli Chicken
Mains: Open Steak Sandwich with garlic cubes
Hog and Heifer Burger with Sweet Potato Fries
What we liked: The Salt and Chilli Chicken starter was an early winner for me. I can’t usually pass this on a menu as it’s always tasty and a nice starter, but most of the time, they are very similar. On a few rare occasions at other restaurants, the salt and chilli chicken pieces have resembled something from the frozen section, but not at The Rusty Keg. The long strips of hand-battered and seasoned chicken had just the perfect blend of crisp and tenderness; they were incredibly moreish. I can see why these are also an option as a main course because I could have easily eaten more of them. The side salad was also a lovely accompaniment to take the heat off the spice.
My husband said his Breaded Mushrooms were also really tasty and not greasy, as some can often be. He also praised the side salad and garlic dip.
I chose another firm favourite, the Steak Sandwich, for my main course, and the staff and chef were very helpful when I was awkward and asked if I could have the regular fried onions replaced with tobacco onions, which was an excellent substitution in my eyes as they were plentiful, just how I like it!
The garlic bread on which the tasty steak strips were served was covered in melted cheese and accompanied by a large portion of peppered sauce. The bread was amazing. I like my Steak Sandwich not too crispy on the bottom, and this was melt-in-your-mouth amazing, and easily cut through with a knife.
My husband, who admittedly said he’s not ‘usually a burger person’ when dining out, said the Hog and Heifer was incredible. A juicy steak burger served with pulled pork on top, loaded with cheese and tobacco onions. It was a big ask, but he devoured the lot.
What we didn’t like/would change
Honestly, it’s hard to find something I wasn’t happy with during this meal. It’s probably more a matter of personal preference, but perhaps less cheese on the Steak Sandwich. It slightly overpowered the garlic bread but it was delicious nonetheless..
My husband couldn’t find anything he didn’t like about his starter or main; it was clean plates for him.
My only regret is not having time for dessert, we had planned to see a show after our meal so were a little tight for time, but we will be back. The variety on the menu, not to mention the high quality of the food, will ensure we are definitely returning customers.
How much it cost: Our bill came to £74.30, and that included one Passionfruit Martini and a soft drink. I thought the price was pretty spot on in terms of value.
Overall thoughts and rating: 4/5 stars
Since we dined here a few weeks ago, I’ve found myself mentioning it to people I’ve met whenever the conversation turns to food. We also loved the overall atmosphere in the place. The interiors are gorgeous, and it’s so central if you’re heading to a show at the Burnavon Theatre afterwards, the cinema, or even for a drink down the street in one of the bars. Put this one on your list to visit, I promise you won’t be disappointed.
#spoilt #choice #popular #restaurants #location
