The Perfect Start: A Closer Look at Our Favourite Starters

Here at The Black Bull in Tarbolton, we believe that every great meal deserves a perfect beginning. While our main courses might often steal the show, the opening act – our starters – play a crucial role in setting the tone for your dining experience. They're not just about satisfying initial hunger; they're about awakening your taste buds, offering a glimpse into the quality of our kitchen, and preparing you for the deliciousness to come.

We’ve carefully crafted a selection of starters designed to complement our main courses, using fresh, quality ingredients and a touch of culinary flair. From comforting classics to vibrant, modern twists, there’s something to kick off every meal just right.

Let's take a closer look at a couple of our current customer favourites and why they've become the ideal way to begin your meal at The Bull.

1. Crispy Tempura Halloumi with Strawberry Chilli Jam

This dish has quickly become a standout favourite on our menu, and it's easy to see why. It’s a brilliant example of how simple, high-quality ingredients can create a truly memorable flavour experience.

What makes it special?

• The Halloumi: We start with premium halloumi cheese, known for its unique, slightly squeaky texture and appealing saltiness. When cooked right, it offers a satisfying bite without being rubbery.
• The Tempura Batter: Forget heavy, greasy batters. Our tempura is designed to be incredibly light and airy, creating a delicate, crisp shell that encases the warm, soft halloumi. It provides that irresistible crunch without overwhelming the flavour of the cheese.
• The Strawberry Chilli Jam: This is where the magic really happens! The jam offers a fantastic counterpoint to the savoury halloumi. It’s a delightful balance of sweet, fruity strawberry notes with a subtle, warming chilli kick.

It's salty, sweet, a little spicy, and wonderfully textured – a fantastic way to wake up your palate. This starter is a hit with vegetarians and cheese lovers alike, proving that a starter can be both comforting and exciting.

2. Classic Atlantic Prawn Cocktail

Sometimes, you just can't beat a classic, and our Atlantic Prawn Cocktail is a testament to that. It’s a dish that evokes a sense of nostalgia and comfort, done exceptionally well. We believe in honouring the timeless appeal of this favourite by focusing on fresh, quality components.

What makes it special?

• Plump Atlantic Prawns: The star of the show. We use generous, succulent Atlantic prawns, ensuring every mouthful is packed with that fresh, sweet seafood flavour.
• Crisp Iceberg Lettuce: Provides that essential fresh crunch and a cool, clean base that complements the richness of the prawns and sauce.
• Our Signature Marie Rose Sauce: The creamy, tangy heart of any good prawn cocktail. Our Marie Rose sauce is carefully balanced, perfectly coating the prawns without overpowering them.

It's a refreshing, elegant, and satisfying start that’s light enough not to spoil your appetite for the main course, yet rich in flavour and perfectly balanced.

The Art of the Appetiser

Choosing a starter is a key part of the dining experience. Whether you're in the mood for the classic, refreshing taste of our Prawn Cocktail or the exciting, modern twist of our Tempura Halloumi, we've designed our menu to have a perfect beginning for every meal.

Next time you visit The Black Bull, take a moment to explore our starters – you won't be disappointed.

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