I EAT: Williams Fish Market and Food Hall

On our first full day in Nailsworth, it rained heavily. Which made the prospect of venturing outdoors dreary and the alternative course of action that much more irresistible. I am, of course, talking about the option to spend the day hopping from warm restaurant to warm restaurant, gorging ourselves on expertly-prepared, locally-sourced goodness. Our feast began at William's Fish Market and Food Hall, a delightful grocery in the front and a no-fuss eatery in the back. 

True to its name, upon entry, I came face-to-face with large pink slabs of freshly-caught fish chilling on mounds of rocky ice. Past the impressive seafood counter lay hazelnut meringues the size of my face and stacked jars of autumn apple chutney, redcurrant jelly, and pear & ginger jam. Everything locally-made, except for the back corner which was crammed with specialty tidbits imported from France and Japan. NOT your typical grocer.

Breakfast kicked off with a freshly-sliced baguette, perfectly warm and fluffy with a crispy crust, served with French butter so tasty I was tempted to shovel it down with a spoon. Disgusting, I know, but well-made butter has that effect on me. William's oysters are famed. And though oysters for breakfast are a bit too rich for my taste, I have it on good authority from A that the accolades are well-justified. I went for the classic smoked salmon and scrambled eggs combo, which turned out to be one of the best renditions of the classic I've ever had. That's saying something considering, in my diet pyramid, smoked salmon might as well be its own food group.

Enjoy the pictures after the jump! And look out for more "I EAT" posts from Nailsworth. The town is foodie paradise.