and chop sticks. The food certainly was not going to disappoint going by the jovial atmosphere of fellow diners as we took time to divulge the extensive wine list and menu catering for Peking and Szechuan cuisine but including all the traditional favourites. There were many large groups of diners in the conservatory area which is filled with bright sunlight in the summer.

We chose an inexpensive rosé and shared crispy duck, tender and delicious, and of course coming with all the trimmings of fresh pancakes, cucumber, spring onion and divine tasting hoisin sauce.

For the mains we decided to fill the table with a mixed selection of fish and meat dishes with rice and noodles. As each dish emerged we were captivated by the tempting aromas adding to the sights and smells from neighbouring tables in this tightly compact venue.

The sizzling lamb appeared, still frying on a hot skillet with spring onions in a spicy Szechuan sauce. Lightly fried squid was deliciously prepared with tiny cuts to absorb the black bean sauce, the unique tastes marvellously complementing each other. The chilli beef was finely shredded and fried in batter and served with masses of chopped carrots. The rice and excellent fried noodles with generous amounts of bean shoots completed a fine feast.

We decided to aid digestion with herbal tea served with matching crockery and a large teapot ideal to share and refill our cups.

Despite the marvellous food the service was slow on a busy Friday night, plates were not served pre-warmed and there were no heating devices on the table. However these are minor complaints for a mecca for Chinese food which is often filled with regulars and attracts diners from as far away as Newmarket to a venue easily accessible just off the A14.

Since becoming a restaurant the Phoenix is one of many rural pubs that has been re-invigorated by offering good quality Asian food in tranquil surrounds. Its well-known reputation for serving quality food in a friendly atmosphere amongst well-heeled clientele will only improve and will add to this popular trend in out of town dining.