The Oak at Hockley Heath
 
I have been watching with interest the work going on at what was once ORO (and before that The Old Royal Oak) over the last few weeks and wondered what changes were in store.  Today I finally had chance to call in and find out.
 
There has clearly been a change of ownership, as well as a name change to The Oak, but the food hall is not dissimilar to the previous one, just smaller and re-arranged.  There is no longer a fish counter, florist or plant seller (although I did spot a few bunches of flowers by the door) but the butcher, deli, veg and cakes remain, albeit in different places, and there is an interesting new cheese counter. Most, if not all, the products for sale appear to be organic or locally sourced. The coffee shop is larger and the restaurant is now bright and inviting in a French country style. No food was bought or eaten (I only popped in out of curiosity after all!) so I am unable to comment further on this.
 
Outside, the seating area has been moved to the back and there is a new pond and country trail. A slightly annoying one way system has been introduced for vehicles which means that you have to drive around the back to get out.
 
Have you visited yet? If so, please leave a comment, especially if you have sampled any of the food in the restaurant or coffee shop, and let others (including me!) know whether it is worth a try.
 
Edit: Since writing this the food hall at The Oak has closed.
 
Update September 2008: After a short period of closure the Oak has recently been refurbished (again) and reopened as a modern restaurant and bar.
 
 
Thursday, 4 October 2007
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