The Waterside Inn

Considering that the Waterside Inn is something of a national institution – it’s been around for a remarkable three decades & held three Michelin stars for nearly two – you might expect it to have a slightly aloof, temple-of-gastronomy air about it. But absolutely none of it; from the warmest of welcomes to the pitch-perfect service, this sumptuously furnished yet homely restaurant offers one of the most cosseting dining experiences you could hope to find. ‘Quite simply the best’ is the verdict of an array of fans of this ‘idyllic’ Thames-side restaurant & its very exceptional food. Pan-fried lobster medallion with a white Port sauce & ginger-flavoured vegetable julienne is a deliciously decadent concoction, while roasted Challandais duck to follow is an equally well-judged creation, served with potato & garlic mousseline & cut through by an entirely complementary lemon & thyme jus. At dessert, the renowned warm raspberry souffle doesn’t disappoint – ‘we ordered dessert twice, they were that good’. Unsurprisingly, the wine list is French-leaning & the over-all experience an expensive one – but it’s also one to remember long, long afterwards.