The county of Berkshire is a foodie gem with a host of fantastic restaurants, bistros, cafes and pubs and here are some of the best places to eat. In 1972 Michel and Albert Roux opened The Waterside Inn on the banks of the Thames in Bray. Cliveden in Taplow, meanwhile, is one of England’s most beautiful stately homes, where chef André Garrett has his modern French restaurant. Everyone has heard of Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck on Bray’s High Street, but did you know he also has two pubs, The Hind’s Head and The Crown, in the same village?
There’s a few decently-priced eateries in Maidenhead – try the Strawberry Grove Café, or Coppa Club (also in Windsor) which is great for a brunch or burger; Bistro Story is an excellent Polish restaurant; and Miyazaki offers very good Japanese dishes. Lemon Grass, Emperor of India and Ghandis are outstanding Indian restaurants. In Windsor, everyone is raving about Oxford Blue right now. It has been a pub for more than 100 years and, after being acquired in 2015 by chef proprietor, Steven Ellis, it now offers traditional English food with a sophisticated touch.
Our picks
The Fat Duck
High Street, Bray, Maidenhead SL6 2AQ
Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck offers diners ‘a fairytale journey back to childhood’ – the team will actually call you in advance of your booking to ask about your memories to personalise your dining experience. The resulting cuisine is phenomenal, with dishes planned to the smallest details, executed to the highest standard, focusing on flavour sensations that are simultaneously familiar yet often completely unique. This is a must-visit for any discerning foodies, and is often a bucket-list item for many. Visit website
The Newbury
137 Bartholomew Street, Newbury RG14 5HB
The Newbury is an imposing Grade 2-listed gastro pub in the centre of Newbury. It is a multi-award winning venue which prides itself on its exciting British a la carte menu, a great selection of ales, an extensive wine list and fabulous service. The terrace has a relaxed, cool vibe to it with vibrant flow, providing a stylish and sophisticated sanctuary, offering a unique al fresco venue for spring and summer wining and dining. Visit website
L’Ortolan
Church Lane, Shinfield, Reading RG2 9BY
Relax in the luxurious and timeless setting of Reading’s only Michelin-star restaurant, L’Ortolan. Located only five minutes from junction 11 of the M4. Indulge yourself with one of Tom Clarke’s tasting menus, sample unique wines from a great selection, witness first hand the performance of the team from the Chef’s Table or have a private party in one of the function rooms. Visit website
The Elephant at the Market
8 Market Place, Newbury RG14 5BD
Located in the beautiful Market Place of Newbury, The Elephant at the Market is proud to serve a seasonally-changing menu with highlights including Josper oven-cooked steaks, wood-fired pizzas, hearty Sunday roasts and expertly-crated drinks, every day of the week. Visit website
Al Fassia
27 St. Leonards Road, Windsor SL4 3BP
Al Fassia is a traditional Moroccan restaurant in the heart of Windsor. The beautiful Amina Lounge is located upstairs and can accommodate up to 40 guests. The large room is adorned with hand-made carpets and drapes from Marrakech, making for a warm setting evocative of traditional Moroccan dining. Visit website
