Chilterns Food & Drink Guide 2015-2016

a n n u a ledition

C H I L T E R N S

A comprehensive guide to eating out in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire

R e s t a u r a n t s • C a f é s • B a r s • P u b s • H o t e l s

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9th

OPEN

• Mon-Sat Lunch noon-2.30pm Dinner 6pm-10.30pm

• Sun Lunch noon-2.30pm

OLD WELWYN

• 28 High Street, Old Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9EQ

• 01438 716322

www.aquaristorante.co.uk

A modern classic Italian

in the heart of Hertfordshire

• Aqua’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly staff make it the perfect place to celebrate birthdays, weddings and Christmas parties •

Welcome

Chilterns Guide 2015 1

Chilterns Food & Drink Guide 2015

www.facebook.com/foodanddrinkguide

111 Victoria StreetBristolBS1 6AXt: 0117 927 7167f: 0117 933 8193 e: [email protected]: www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk

Editor Sally Webb

Deputy Editor Michelle Grady

Graphic Designers Holly Bradford, Morag Davidson

PR & Marketing ManagerJennifer Merrikin

Digital Content ManagerEmma Cullen

Editorial Assistants Dominic Stroud, Maddie Bowman, Hannah Burton, Siân Griffiths,Jessica Roberts

Photography Jon Hurst (www.jonhurstphoto.co.uk),Leon Day (www.leondayimages.com)

Contributors Catherine Thomas, Jo Cooper, Katy Dynes, Max Caldicote,Michele Tichen, Roger Ennals,Jenny Beale, Chris Lennon,Kris Cannon, Claire Norbutiene,Susan Bicknel, Denise Denial,Janet Middleton-Stewart

Project Manager Joe Packer

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Published by Food & Drink Guides Ltd

Publisher Sam Collins

Designed & Produced by Visit Contract Publishing

Managing Director Robin Fry

Milton Keynes

Newport Pagnell

BedfordSandy

Biggleswade

Ampthill

DunstableWinslow

Buckingham

Luton

Hitchin Buntingford

Letchworth

Stevenage

Hertford

WatfordHigh Wycombe

Marlow

Amersham

Aylesbury

St Albans

Hemel Hempstead

Cheshunt

Bishop’s Stortford

Royston

Riseley

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EHSH

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NC

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Foreword ......................2Fine Dining ...................3Modern British ..............7Modern European ........14Greek ..........................18Gastropub ...................19Bar & Restaurant ........25Bar .............................27Bar & Grill ..................27Brasserie .....................28

Delicatessen ................28American ....................29Italian American .........30Italian .........................31French ........................36British & French ..........38Tapas ..........................38International ...............40Vegetarian ..................40

Traditional ..................40Thai ............................50Indian .........................51Indian & Bangladeshi ...59Far Eastern .................59Chinese .......................60Oriental .......................61Chef Profi les ...............61Index ..........................64

Milton Keynes

Bedford

North Hertfordshire

East Hertfordshire

South Hertfordshire

West Hertfordshire

North & Central Buckinghamshire

South Buckinghamshire

Central Bedfordshire

Hertfordshire

Bedfordshire

Buckinghamshire

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WH

MK

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Contents

You’ll notice that some restaurants in the guide have an 084 telephone number – this allows you to make reservations from anywhere in the UK while only being charged the standard local call rate (calls to 084 numbers are charged at local rates from landlines, but may cost more from mobiles).

Just like the weather, ownership, opening times and prices are subject to change throughout the year. Have a look at our website – www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk – to see reviews of restaurants nationwide and to request other regional Food & Drink magazines.

Many of the reviews include a price tab. This is the typical cost per person you can expect to pay for two courses from the à la carte menu, plus a drink (unless otherwise stated). This is for guidance purposes only and prices may vary.Restaurants featuring this symbol have both disabled access and a toilet suitable for wheelchair users (this information has been provided by the restaurants in question and should be confi rmed prior to visiting).Restaurants featuring this symbol have accommodation.

£25to

£30

Welcome to the Chilterns Food & Drink Guide 2015. On the following pages you’ll fi nd a wide range of options for eating out in the region. To help you make your selection, each review features a coloured tab to denote the restaurant’s location – just reference the map and key below.

The cost of producing this guide has been met by advertising revenues from the restaurants featured within. We only include restaurants that we know, from either experience or recommendation, provide a quality service, and our journalists review the majority of the establishments. However, some reviews are supplied by third parties, and no review in this guide should be taken as a direct recommendation by Food & Drink Guides Ltd. Printed February 2015.

Chilterns Guide 20152 News • Reviews • Latest Offers

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Looking around me as I write this foreword, I am struck by just how beautiful this part of the world really is. It of course helps that I’m sitting in the impressive grounds that belong to the Brocket Hall Estate, and it certainly helps that this is where I get to come to work every day at my restaurant, Auberge du Lac, but it has to be said that there is something rather special about the Chilterns as a whole.

I have been the head chef at Auberge du Lac for over a year now, and in this time I have fallen hook, line and sinker for the area. It is simply the most inspiring place to be a chef. I just have to step outside the doors of my restaurant – or even my house – and I fi nd myself stumbling across wild ingredients that may work in one of my dishes, or even inspire a new dish. Luckily, I have a lunch menu that I change daily to allow for such fi nds.

I have always enjoyed foraging, but with my last job as head chef at Hibiscus in London, it was pretty tricky to head outside of the city to fi nd green space. This is why I love the Chilterns so much: you have that perfect mix of city and town life, with beautiful open countryside on your doorstep.

As much as foraging is now a passion of mine, it would be impossible for me to pick all of the ingredients that I need for the restaurant, and this is where my amazing group of local farmers comes in. There is one man in particular who I’d be lost without – he comes into the restaurant once a week with an incredible array of fresh treats from his farm, from home-grown veggies to venison, and crayfi sh to live eels. It’s my favourite day of the week and there’s nothing that could inspire a chef more.

And it’s not just professional chefs who can benefi t from living in the Chilterns. With fantastic farmers’ markets, such as the St Albans and Harpenden monthly editions, and the strong selection of greengrocers and butchers in the area, anyone can get their hands on, and be inspired by, fresh, local produce. Keep it local and keep on sampling the myriad dining options the Chilterns has to offer, and you’re sure to fall in love with the area as much as I have.

Marcus McGuinness Foreword

£40to

£60

SHDeep in the Hertfordshire countryside, Auberge du Lac sits on one of England’s most beautiful country estates, in an unrivalled setting. Positioned on the waterside with magnifi cent views over a tranquil lake, extensive parkland and the prestigious Brocket Hall, the vista from the restaurant’s terrace is captivating, as is the innovative cuisine from head chef, Marcus McGuinness.

This charming restaurant is housed in the estate’s former hunting lodge, exuding elegance and exclusivity, with starched white tablecloths and attentive silver service. Whether it is al fresco dining in summer or a cosy environment in the chilly winter months that you’re looking for, Auberge du Lac provides the right mood for every occasion. Some of Marcus’s delectable dishes include Périgord truffl e, ironbark pumpkin velouté, mountain Gorgonzola and candied walnuts, and 45-day-aged fi llet of Cumbrian beef, Jerusalem artichoke, confi t potatoes and horseradish. To fi nish there’s Yorkshire rhubarb savarin, aged rum, and cardamom and vanilla cream.

As well as its reputation for serving fi ne French and modern European cuisine, Auberge du Lac is also well-known for its vast collection of wines, comprising 700 bins. A knowledgeable sommelier is always on hand to help match the perfect wine to each course and prices at Auberge are reasonable, considering the excellent service and quality of the food. Mid-week lunch packages start from only £39.50 for three courses accompanied by two large glasses of wine, while the six-course tasting menu is £69 excluding wine.

The idyllic setting is perfect for a romantic weekend away and residential packages are available, allowing guests to dine at Auberge and stay overnight at the luxurious Melbourne Lodge on the estate. There is also opportunity to play golf on the estate’s two championship courses and there are tastefully decorated dining rooms available to hire for private functions like business meetings and birthday dinners. You can also hire the entire restaurant for the ultimate party, with prices starting at £145 per person – perfect for a fairytale wedding. Auberge du Lac is simply unbeatable when it comes to quality. No visit to Welwyn is complete without an evening at this top eatery.

Fine DiningAuberge du Lac Restaurant Location Brocket Hall, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL8 7XG t: 0843 153 0426 w: www.aubergedulac.co.uk e: [email protected]

Chilterns Guide 2015 3www.facebook.com/foodanddrinkguide

Open: Tues-Sat noon-4pm, 7pm-11pm Food Served: Tues-Sat noon-2pm, 7pm-9pm



£20to

£40

SHTHOMPSON@Darcy’s offers a relaxed and affordable fi ne-dining experience. Here you will fi nd a modern, vibrant and busy setting, without the pretence sometimes associated with formal dining. The menus are ever changing and dictated by the seasons. Head chef Phil Thompson (chef profi le page 61) utilises his classic training, along with his natural skill for creating delicious fl avour combinations, to create dishes that showcase his own modern style.

The à la carte menu is available from Monday to Saturday, at an average spend of £45 for three courses. Pop along at lunchtime and dine from the set menu, which is just £16.50 for two courses and £21 for three. The set dinner menu is equally reasonable, with two courses offered at £18.50 and three for just £23. On Sundays, a traditional roast set menu is available for both lunch and dinner, priced at £25 for two courses and £29.50 for three, alongside an indulgent Sunday evening lobster and steak option. For something a little different, try the six-course tasting menu (£55) with an optional wine fl ight (matching wine tasting menu), carefully selected to enhance the fl avours of each dish.

The quality and presentation of the food is paramount. Phil consistently asks his team, ‘is this dish good enough to serve to your mum?’ – an effective means of quality control. The team at THOMPSON@Darcy’s is also passionate about the customer experience and takes great pride in offering the highest possible standards of service. The well-stocked bar offers a wide variety of specialist spirits, wines and cocktails and the head barman and front of house team work closely with Phil to produce three to four new seasonal cocktails to match each new menu. These are always subtly blended, well-balanced and, put simply, pure decadence.

The restaurant is a popular venue for weddings, christenings, birthdays and other celebrations, as well as being perfect for meetings, training events and conferences. Any event can be hosted in the 28-seater conservatory or on the terrace – a quaint Victorian-style courtyard with trailing ivy, honeysuckle, shrubs and fl owers, which seats a further 20 guests and is offered exclusively when the conservatory is booked. Private parties are also held in the 52-seater restaurant area upstairs. Be sure to book your table today.

Fine Dining THOMPSON@Darcy’s Location 2-8 Hatfi eld Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3RP t: 0843 155 0819 w: www.thompsonatdarcys.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sun noon-4pm, 6pm-9pm

*£32

to£40

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£25to

£62

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Flitwick Manor Hotel has been awarded a second AA rosette award, following the appointment of new head chef, Steve Barringer (chef profi le page 61), earlier this year. After months of hard work crafting a new menu for the hotel’s restaurant, Woburn local Steve’s efforts have now been given the highly sought-after offi cial AA seal of approval.After gaining 15 years of experience within the hospitality industry and a place in the 2011 Masterchef: The Professionals fi nal, Barringer returned to the kitchens where he began his career as pot washer in 2001. Together with a new sous chef, kitchen team and the support and direction from general manager, Giles Shaw, Steve has put his own personal stamp on the hotel’s fi ne dining menu and the results have been well received. Four-star Flitwick Manor’s fi ne dining restaurant is an epicurean delight that will appeal to all food enthusiasts whether hotel guests, local residents or visitors from further afi eld. Dishes include a starter of soy-glazed chicken wing, broccoli,

peanuts and chicory, and main courses such as wood pigeon, beetroot, pear and Stilton, and sea bream, butternut squash, spring onion and ox cheek. Desserts include banana parfait with chocolate mousse, peanut brittle and caramel. The menu has purposefully been created to build suspense and intrigue, so as to surprise and delight diners when presented with their dishes of choice. By using multiple techniques, Steve and his team aim to provide diners with a complete sensory experience, highlighting the numerous ways in which ingredients can shine. *£32 represents the cost of the two-course set menu. £40 represents the cost of the three-course set menu.

Dine in unashamed opulence and enjoy the very best food and wine at the Wernher Restaurant at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa. The restaurant in the 18th-Century mansion house is named after former owner and diamond magnate Sir Julius Wernher and is a jewel amongst restaurants in Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire and beyond.With fl oor-to-ceiling marble panels, glittering chandeliers and sweeping views of the surrounding parkland, it’s a superb venue in which to celebrate a special occasion or dine out in style. Under the guidance and creative inspiration of executive chef Kevin Clark (chef profi le page 62), the restaurant has been awarded two coveted AA rosettes and gained an enviable reputation for exciting dishes with a modern twist, made using British produce.The restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a table d’hote menu priced from £25 for two courses at lunchtime and a speciality menu featuring a mouth-

watering array of seasonal dishes. For a truly memorable gourmet experience there is a fi ve-course tasting menu showcasing the talents of chef Clark and his team, which includes specially selected wines to accompany each course, from £62.50. Visit for lunch or dinner Wednesday to Saturday or from 1pm to 9pm for an all-day Sunday lunch.

Flitwick Manor Hotel Location Church Road, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1AE t: 0843 153 0431 w: www.menzieshotels.co.uk e: fl [email protected]

Fine Dining

Wernher Restaurant at Luton Hoo Hotel Location The Mansion House, Luton Hoo Estate, Nr. Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ t: 0844 683 8891 w: www.lutonhoo.co.uk e: [email protected]

Fine Dining


Open: Weds-Fri 12.30pm-2pm, 7pm-10pm; Sat 12.30pm-2pm, 6.30pm-10.30pm; Sun 1pm-9pm

Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-2pm, 7pm-9.30pm

£25to

£35

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£40to

£50

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Chez Mumtaj is a two-AA-rosetted boutique-style restaurant that showcases a unique style of French-Asian haute cuisine. This reputable establishment has a sizeable collection of accolades, celebrating its progressive menus. This includes being named Best South East Restaurant at the 2013 British Curry Awards by Prime Minister David Cameron, in addition to being cited as one of the top venues serving elegant Indian cuisine by The Daily Telegraph in 2014. Food critic William Sitwell states that dishes are ‘so expertly crafted it’s diffi cult to ruin them with a knife and fork’ – a sentiment which anyone who visits will understand. Inside the restaurant, the main dining area and separate private rooms are unashamedly luxurious and opulent. The Saffron Lounge, meanwhile, features rich mahogany panelled walls, leather banquette seating, antique-mirrored walls and private booths, and is a great place to enjoy a pre or post-dinner drink.

Chad Rahman (chef profi le page 62) is the culinary force behind Chez Mumtaj. His mission is to impart the essence of stunning French and Asian cuisine using a progressive approach. The result is a menu of traditional dishes with a contemporary twist. To begin, expect innovative starters such as bird’s nest quail Scotch egg, spice-crusted hand-dived Scottish king scallops, and pan-seared foie gras glazed in kumquat. Mains include pan-roasted guinea fowl with a homemade chorizo, chicken tikka and wild mushroom pie and game jus; curried Cornish monkfi sh tail with Franco-Asian Pondicherry shellfi sh bisque and South Indian-style crabmeat tomato rice; and spice-crusted saddle of venison with masala crushed Charlotte potatoes and chocolate-tamarind red wine jus.

This splendid Georgian building – once home to Lord Mountbatten – stands among 12 acres of lush grounds. Inside, the elegant decor seamlessly weaves classic features with contemporary touches – harking back dutifully to Sopwell’s notable past while respecting the needs of its 21st-Century clientele. Two restaurants and two bars reside within these distinguished walls, each with its own character.The Restaurant is the most prominent of Sopwell’s venues. Light and airy by day and romantic in the evening, it sees refi ned, AA-rosette-worthy dishes served atop tables dressed with white linen. The monthly changing menu is available alongside the à la carte. The crispy wood pigeon and chicken boudin served with brandied morels and fi nished with pickled pear and hazelnut emulsion exemplifi es the quality of the latter’s starters. To follow are mouth-watering mains such as line-caught sea bass with potato purée, purple sprouting broccoli, roasted red onion, shaved fennel, garden herbs and mint.The Brasserie is a laid-back, all-day dining venue with an open kitchen, allowing you the luxury of witnessing the chefs at work, preparing such signature offerings as tuna Niçoise and Aberdeen Angus steaks. The chic and cosy Cocktail Bar is a

modern-day haven in which to savour traditional afternoon tea and expertly crafted cocktails. On a summer’s day, settings don’t come more exquisite than The Conservatory, which opens on to a beautiful decked terrace.

Restaurant Open: Weds 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-9.30pm; Thurs 7pm-9.30pm; Fri 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-9.30pm; Sat 7pm-9.30pm; Sun 12.30pm-3pm Brasserie Open: Mon-Fri 6.30am-10am, noon-3pm, 7pm-10pm; Sat & Sun 8am-10.30am, 12.30pm-3pm, 7pm-10pm

Chez Mumtaj Location 136-142 London Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1PQ t: 0844 683 5341 w: www.chezmumtaj.com e: [email protected]

Sopwell House Location Cottonmill Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 2HQ t: 0843 155 0462 w: www.sopwellhouse.co.uk e: [email protected]

Fine Dining

Fine Dining



Open: Tues-Sun noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm

£25to

£30

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£75to

£125

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A lovely country pub with a menu featuring some of the best local and seasonal ingredients, The Tilbury in pretty Datchworth offers a truly special dining experience. Here you’ll discover modern British cuisine with a creative twist, an extensive and thoughtfully compiled wine list and cosy traditional features, including an open fi re and rustic wooden tables. A three-course meal at this rural retreat might start with braised rabbit and carrot cake or home-cured salmon with mouli, pickled ginger and gentleman’s relish, followed by veal sirloin with oxtail mash, candied beets and veal jus or scallop-stuffed plaice with new potatoes and crayfi sh butter sauce. A serving of treacle tart with marmalade ice cream or cherry panna cotta accompanied by a delightful pear Bakewell croquette is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. Situated in close proximity to attractions including Knebworth House, amid acres of lush countryside, The Tilbury is a perfect place to rest and refuel after a long walk or bike ride.

Colette’s restaurant at The Grove indulges food lovers with a faultless fi ne dining experience and is wholly deserving of its numerous accolades, including being awarded three AA rosettes. We were wooed by the intimate setting and attention to detail at the bar (tiny rose petals enhanced my gin and tonic) and enthralled by the artistry of the individual courses. I can highly recommend the Symphony tasting menu: eight courses – including the choice of a surprise dish – presenting a masterful marriage of deliciousness and beautiful presentation, from canapés to petits fours. Utilising many ingredients which hail from Colette’s own walled garden, the menu alters according to the season. We were even encouraged to guess which ingredients were used to create one of the dishes we tried. We had a truly unforgettable gastronomic journey and an exceptionally enjoyable dining experience.

Food Served: Tues-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-4pm

Open: Tues-Sat 6.30pm-9.30pm (last orders) (open Sundays and closed Tuesdays following Bank Holiday weekends)

Colette’s Location The Grove, Chandler’s Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG t: 0843 153 0462 w: www.thegrove.co.uk e: [email protected]

The Tilbury Location Watton Road, Datchworth, Hertfordshire, SG3 6TB t: 0843 153 0463 w: www.thetilbury.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

Fine Dining


£20to

£30

CB

Working alongside the owners, Graham and Terry, a team of fi ve chefs has transformed The Knife and Cleaver into a must-visit destination. The Knife and Cleaver Inn is an AA-four-gold-star accommodation inn and AA-award-winning restaurant, open seven days a week.The Terrace Restaurant within is light, airy and intimate, and well-designed overlooking the terrace and gardens, providing al fresco dining if the weather permits. The private dining room, which seats up to 25 guests, is very popular with many a visitor wishing to have a more intimate experience with their guests. Lunchtimes are very busy, especially on Sundays, and The Knife and Cleaver also offers an excellent gastro bar menu. Nine well-equipped and beautifully decorated en-suite bedrooms surround the gardens and terrace and are perfectly at home in the quiet village of Houghton Conquest in the Bedfordshire countryside. The Knife and Cleaver has recently been refurbished and rebuilt, allowing the designers to ensure full access to all parts of the

building, not only inside and outside but some of the accommodation rooms too. Full virtual tours of the bars, restaurants and bedrooms can be accessed via their website.

The Knife and Cleaver Inn Location The Grove, Houghton Conquest, Bedfordshire, MK45 3LA t: 0843 153 0467 w: www.theknifeandcleaver.com e: [email protected]

Modern British



Open: Mon-Fri 7am-late; Sat & Sun 8am-late (closing times vary from summer to winter)

£15to

£25

CBThe Bell’s Grade II listed building has welcomed customers through its doors since as far back as the 15th Century. It has stayed true to its traditional roots and boasts cosy decor and a menu of freshly cooked timeless classics and contemporary European offerings. Since taking over the pub in 2004, Nikki and Phil have created a welcoming and reputable venue, popular with both locals and visitors to the surrounding countryside. The menu is extensive and regularly changing – there’s everything from bar snacks, breads and boards, to a wealth of main courses for a more formal dining experience. My dining partner took advantage of the specials menu, choosing the slow-braised pork hock with roasted vegetables, mash and an apple and cider jus. The rich, moist meat fell off the bone and was served in a plentiful portion for one. After much deliberation, I just had to try one of Phil’s pies of the day – a simple mix of Lincolnshire sausage, smoked mature cheese and beans, which proved a nostalgic classic, epitomising winter comfort food. Hitting the

sweet spot perfectly was the trio of desserts; a sample of old favourites such as sticky toffee pudding, rhubarb crumble and homemade apple pie.In addition to their delicious range of food, The Bell also displays an assortment of trinkets and gifts for sale, meaning you can pick up a little of their comforting, cosy vibe and take it home for yourself.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-1amFood Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5pm-9.30pm; Sat & Sun noon-9pm

The Bell Location Dunstable Road, Studham, Bedfordshire, LU6 2QG t: 0843 153 0468 w: www.thebellinstudham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

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The Five Arrows is a Grade II listed hotel, restaurant and function venue standing near the gates of Waddesdon Manor. Built in 1887 as part of the Waddesdon Estate by Baron Ferdinand de Rothschild, it was originally used to accommodate the architects, craftsmen and artisans working on the Manor itself.

The two-rosette restaurant can seat 60 guests and is divided into smaller areas, creating a cosy, romantic ambience. On warm days, guests can choose to dine al fresco on the beautiful outdoor terrace, which seats up to 30 and overlooks the spectacular gardens. Seasonal menus feature fresh, local ingredients in modern European dishes and favourite British classics – from simple but imaginative and great-value set lunch menus to gastronomic dinner experiences. Children

are very welcome. The extensive wine list features Rothschild wines from around the world, after which the restaurant is themed and the 16 en-suite bedrooms are named.

The Five Arrows is a licensed venue, utterly perfect for weddings, parties and private dining – the option to take exclusive use of the whole premises and have ownership of this beautiful boutique country hotel for your celebration is available.

Open: Mon-Sun 7am-11.30pm

Corner 5’s modern interior is fl ooded with light through double-height windows. With a vessel-like vaulted ceiling high overhead, the dining room is an interesting and welcoming space. Having taken in our surroundings, we were warmly shown to a table by Jason and Becky. Cleverly laid out, the restaurant also has a large mezzanine fl oor and two function rooms boasting phenomenal views. Tables are set to overlook the action of the water sports lake below.The menu is printed daily. Where possible, dishes are made using seasonal, locally sourced Bedfordshire produce. Head chef Sean Hazlett’s dishes are cleverly designed, combining various ingredients to achieve unusual and delicious fl avours that excite the palate. Starting with a raviolini served atop garlic and tomato cream, I was then swayed by the apricot and apple stuffed pork loin wrapped in serrano ham, which was served with a wonderfully earthy Jerusalem artichoke mash – decadent, delicious and inventive. My partner had the smoked trout tart, and, continuing with the fi sh

theme, opted for the chargrilled tuna cassoulet. A play on the French classic, it incorporated chorizo, seasonal vegetables and a lightly spiced tomato broth to moreish effect. Corner 5 has an exciting dessert menu, from which we settled on a whisky-and-orange-soaked bread and butter pudding, and a beautifully presented orange and lemon sorbet.With plenty of parking, great accessibility and lots to see in the surrounding area, as well as the aforementioned fabulous food, Corner 5 is defi nitely worth a visit.

The Five Arrows Hotel Location Waddesdon, Nr. Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JE t: 0843 153 0469 w: www.waddesdon.org.uk e: reservations@thefi vearrows.co.uk

Modern British

Corner 5 Restaurant Location Box End Park, Box End, Kempston, Bedfordshire, MK43 8RQ t: 0843 153 0471 w: www.corner5restaurant.com e: [email protected]

Modern British


Open: Tues-Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm Bar Open: Mon-Sat noon-late; Sun 12.30pm-3pm

£24to

£28

SH

I was pleased to discover that The Kings Arms on the historic George Street has reopened after having closed 12 years ago. The Kings Arms has been transformed into a welcoming pub with a cosy dining area. The exterior exudes character, with Tudor beams and large windows tempting passersby with a peek into the warm and inviting interior. Inside you’ll fi nd polished tables, an assortment of lamps and exposed ceiling beams.

The front room offers fi ve craft beers on tap, three real ales and over 40 bottled beers and 40 wines, served from a quaint corner bar. There’s also a snacking menu, which is ideal for guests who fancy a nibble or two whilst enjoying their drinks, or those wishing to sample a variety of The Kings Arms’ delicious wares. The restaurant can be found in the back room and serves two and three-course menus, in addition to a unique feasting menu. Head chef Andrew Knight (chef profi le page 63) concentrates on treating guests to

delicious British fare, sourced from local, high quality suppliers.

To promote the marriage of mouth-watering food with their fantastic range of beers, The Kings Arms provides beer matches with all of its dishes, and also hosts regular beer tastings.

The Kings Arms Location 7 George Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER t: 01727 530332 w: www.dylanskingsarms.com e: [email protected]

Modern British



Food Served: Tues-Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-11pm; Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-6pm

£20to

£24

SHThe Foragers are a group of hunter-gatherers based in St Albans. They forage food from the wild and cook their fi ndings up at The Verulam Arms – a cosy Victorian pub in the shadow of St Albans Cathedral.As well as serving a menu of locally hunted game and seasonally foraged fruit, plants and mushrooms, the pub offers a wide selection of craft beers and real ales – there are 12 taps in total, including beer brewed on site in The Foragers’ microbrewery. There’s also a range of boutique spirits, and wines from small European producers.Eager to share their love of the wild, The Foragers lead regular expeditions into the countryside to show their customers how to fi nd and identify wild food. They then return to The Verulam Arms for a wild feast, during which the group gets to taste all of the wild plants they encountered on the walk.While designing the wild cocktail menu at The Verulam Arms, The Foragers also created some unique liqueurs and syrups from foraged ingredients, which have proven so

popular they are now for sale in bottles at the pub and online. As well as these products, The Foragers also offer packaged seasonings, salts and chutneys, all of which are made using foraged plants to allow guests to take home a souvenir after their delicious dinner.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnightFood Served: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 6.30pm-9pm; Fri & Sat noon-3pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sun noon-6pm

The Foragers Location The Verulam Arms, 41 Lower Dagnall Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4QE t: 0843 153 0472 w: www.the-foragers.com e: [email protected]

Modern British

£20to

£40

SH

The White Hart Hotel, a 15th-Century timber-framed coaching inn in the heart of St Albans, boasts a long and colourful history. With many of its original features still intact – they’ve been carefully and lovingly preserved over the years – this establishment is rich in character and abundant in charm.

Housed within the hotel is Tudors Restaurant & Bar. Old documents and drawings adorn the oak-panelled walls, fl oor-length curtains frame the leaded windows and the grand brick fi replace is stunning. Evening diners will be welcomed into a candlelit dining room, adorned with wall lamps, cast-iron chandeliers and a warming fi re in the colder months – dining rooms don’t come much more atmospheric than this.

Tradition and elegance are also evident on the bill of fare. The menu features a host of modern British dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, together with some reworked recipes from the Tudor era. To begin, perhaps the colourful beetroot salmon gravadlax with mixed leaf salad, lemon and toasted country bread will take your fancy, or maybe you’d prefer double-baked Stilton souffl é with caramelised pear, Dijon mustard and Parmesan sauce? The homemade chicken and ham water crust pie, with smooth mash and lashings of real gravy, makes for a hearty main, while the pan-seared sea bass, served with vine tomato fondue and seasonal greens, is fresh, wholesome and beautifully cooked. The tender slow-roasted blade of beef with rich Bourguignon sauce is another popular dish. Decadent desserts include Belgian chocolate cheesecake with dark velvet chocolate ice cream and sticky toffee pudding with toffee sauce and ice cream – delicious. What’s more, fabulous roast lunches are served every Sunday. They’re very popular, so make sure you book ahead.

The grand, historic setting, combined with polished service and well-executed food, make this the ideal venue for any occasion. If you really want to make yourself comfortable, why not settle in for the night in one of the 15 unique guest rooms? With its central location opposite the famous St Albans Cathedral, this is the ideal base from which to explore the city.

Modern BritishTudors Restaurant & Bar Location White Hart Hotel, 23-25 Holywell Hill, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1EZ t: 0843 155 0502 w: www.whiteharthotel.org e: [email protected]


Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-9pm (last orders)

£25to

£35

SH

AA-rosette-awarded restaurants are something of a rarity in St Albans. Lake Restaurant, however, defi es this trend with two AA rosettes to its name. For great service and delicious food, Lake Restaurant has been collecting accolades, attesting to its quality.

Choices are plentiful and seafood features heavily on the menu. Starters include Scottish salmon mi-cuit accompanied by beetroot and horseradish. For the main course, you can continue with fi sh and opt for poached monkfi sh tail or plump for a favourite like confi t Gloucester Old Spot pork belly with braised red cabbage and Parisienne potatoes.

Desserts are worth indulging in, and include peanut butter parfait served with sour cherry gel and candied peanuts. For those feeling indecisive due to the abundance of choice, the restaurant also offers its Lake Menu which

comprises tasters of the à la carte menu. This menu changes every fortnight to make the most of seasonal produce, and ensures that even if you become the latest recruit to the loyal fan base, there will always be something new to try – and at a reasonable price, too.

Aptly named, the restaurant overlooks the lake and fabulous fi ve-acre garden of St Michael’s Manor Hotel, yet is only a ten-minute stroll from the city centre.

Lake Restaurant Location St Michael’s Manor Hotel, Fishpool Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4RY t: 0843 153 0473 w: www.lakerestaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British



Food Served: Mon-Sun 7am-9pm

£26to

£30

CB

It’s hard to fi nd the right words to describe how The Coach House manages to make everyone feel at home, no matter what the occasion. Walkers with muddy boots, birthday parties, close friends, big families, work colleagues and fi rst-daters all rub shoulders at the bar. Recently renovated, The Coach House is a stylish 17th-Century coaching inn at the heart of Potton. Guests can stay in one of 11 bedrooms, all of which have been individually decorated with creativity and attention to detail.Attentiveness and fl air are also evident in the menus, which are carefully designed by the chefs to showcase the best seasonal produce grown in the local area. Lunch is a relaxed affair based around a delicious selection of small plates – great for sharing. The à la carte dishes offer both style and substance, and a separate restaurant allows evening guests the choice of a quieter, more refi ned dining experience.The fact that The Coach House is open all day serving Fairtrade tea, coffee and homemade cake plays a big part in creating its comfortable,

welcoming atmosphere. Clever use of space and furniture throughout The Coach House means you can choose a seat to fi t your mood. Private parties of up to 18 people can dine in the elegant Front Room from the new feast menu.

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 11am-10pmFood Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sun noon-3pm

The Coach House Location Market Square, Potton, Bedfordshire, SG19 2NP t: 0843 155 0497 w: www.coachhousepotton.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

£20to

£25

CB

£25to

£30

NCA rustic country pub, lovely restaurant and quality butcher all rolled into one, The Pointer is a popular haunt for village residents as well as visitors to Brill. The Pointer’s proprietors are long-term locals and since acquiring the premises in mid-2011 they have worked hard to restore the pub to its former glory as a warm, inviting free house.

The bar stocks some fantastic well-kept local ales and a large variety of wines, making The Pointer a great place to meet friends for a drink. If you drop by, it would be a culinary sin not to sample some of the gorgeous food. Menus are seasonal and rely on local produce – some from the kitchen’s own garden – and showcase the expertise of both the kitchen team and the on-site butchers. Severn & Wye smoked salmon mousse with beetroot and horseradish relish is just one of a great range of dishes you could delve into for starters. Meanwhile, confi t duck leg with Dauphinoise potato, green beans and peppercorn sauce, and

oven-roasted lemon sole with new potatoes and caper and herb butter should give you a taste of what the main event may involve.

The Pointer rears English Longhorn cattle and rare-breed pigs on a nearby farm and, as such, their butcher offers an array of quality cuts of meat and charcuterie so you can recreate The Pointer’s excellent dishes at home.

The White Horse is owned and managed by husband-and-wife team Tom and Jade Dunnell who purchased the business in December 2011. The property itself is a warm and cosy, chocolate-box pub with feature fi replaces and a lovely atmosphere; exactly what you would expect of a clean, comfortable village pub. It dates back over 300 years, with many of the timber beams visible in the restaurant and bar areas the originals from the 18th Century.

The front-of-house staff are friendly, polite and welcoming. Food is prepared in the refurbished modern kitchen by head chef Lee Mark O’Dean (chef profi le page 63) who uses the fi nest ingredients for his menu, and, together with his team of kitchen staff, is dedicated to producing the best food at an affordable price. All food at The White Horse is freshly cooked and naturally this means that dishes may take a little longer to reach your table. While waiting, enjoy

a glass of Prosecco, some olives, or perhaps something from the starter menu.

To accompany your meal, why not opt for a bottle of wine from The White Horse’s 39 choices, ranging from house wines to Dom Pérignon, or be more adventurous and sample from the list of bin ends, which are attractively priced.

The Pointer Location 27 Church Street, Brill, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9RT t: 0843 155 0641 w: www.thepointerbrill.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

The White Horse Location 1 Market Square, Eaton Bray, Bedfordshire, LU6 2DG t: 0843 153 0476 w: www.thewhitehorseeatonbray.co.uk

Modern British


Open: Tues-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri noon-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 11.30am-9pm; Sun noon-11pm

£15to

£20

SH

Overlooking Redbourn Common, this lovely local offers a fi ne view to complement some truly delicious food and drink. Owners Colin and Debbie Baxter are well versed in hospitality and have run the pub successfully for the past seven years.Everything about this community-focused hostelry is geared towards making guests feel welcome. The cosy front bar has a warm, country pub feel and gives way to a 30-seater restaurant, which offers a more contemporary dining experience. There’s also an upstairs dining room, which is available to hire for events and private functions.The menu provides both classic pub grub, such as sausages, mash and onion gravy and the immense Cricketers burger, and an à la carte selection, which includes an ever-changing specials board. There’s also a set menu offering two courses for just £12, plus Sunday roast options, all of which are complemented by an extensive (and extremely reasonably priced) wine list. During my visit, I sampled sumptuous pulled pork with black sticky rice and crunchy Asian salad followed by a main course of perfectly cooked linguine with strips of tender fi llet steak, hints of chilli, garlic and truffl e oil and shavings of tangy Pecorino. Both dishes were

superbly fresh, hinting at the kitchen team’s dedication to using only the fi nest seasonal and locally sourced produce. One of the best pubs in Redbourn, The Cricketers is well worth a visit.

The Cricketers of Redbourn Location East Common, Redbourn, Nr. St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 7ND t: 0843 153 0478 w: www.thecricketersofredbourn.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European



Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Fri & Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun noon-4pm

£20to

£25

CBIf you’re looking for a venue offering a relaxing atmosphere and delicious food, with staff that provide service which is second to none, look no further than the Hare & Hounds in Old Warden.

If you fancy a nibble, check out a sharing platter or one of the homemade bar snacks; otherwise delve into the braised ox cheek wontons in a Parmesan broth. The menu changes regularly, with produce being sourced from the pub’s own allotment or provided by local growers who can trade their home-grown goods for vouchers. Popular mains include the pan-fried pheasant breasts from a local supplier, with braised cabbage and parsnip purée, and the roasted lamb rump, accompanied by a fl ageolet bean purée and garlic fritters. Finally, for pudding, the chocolate tart is deservedly popular, though the Baileys and white chocolate bread and butter pudding is also highly recommended. The menu is reasonably priced and includes a set lunch menu with two courses for £10 and three for £15. To accompany your meal, the Hare & Hounds offers three regular ales on tap and a rotating selection of guest ales, in addition to 30 hand-picked wines and a range of organic soft drinks.

With a home-from-home atmosphere, the Hare & Hounds avoids stuffi ness in favour of comfort and an amiable atmosphere.

Open: Tues-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Tues-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-5.30pm

Hare & Hounds Location Old Warden, Nr. Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, SG18 9HQ t: 0843 153 0479 w: www.hareandhoundsoldwarden.com e: [email protected]

Modern European

£25to

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NC

The King’s Head has it all – it’s a 16th-Century building set alongside the village green and opposite the parish church, and it boasts fantastic food and service and an impressive wine list. The restaurant is adorned with welcoming greenery on the outside and original artwork and luxurious seating inside.Having enjoyed pre-dinner canapés of home-smoked salmon croissants and fromage blanc in the bar, we were led to the dining room by the maitre d’, one of the proprietors, Georges de Maison. The chef de cuisine, Jonathan O’Keeffe (another of the proprietors), has created a nicely balanced menu using local produce wherever possible. We were both tempted by the house speciality, roasted Aylesbury duckling for two. However, in the end, I chose the pan-fried fi llet of halibut, asparagus, carrot purée, crushed new potatoes and bouillabaisse emulsifi cation, and my partner had the rump of lamb, Boulangère potatoes, minted peas, endive salad and smoked bacon jus. We were then

tempted by the crêpes Suzette and the array of French and English cheeses, but eventually picked The King’s Head millionaire shortbread and caramel ice cream – dangerous for the waistline but utterly delicious.The Bon Appetit luncheon menu (available from Monday to Saturday) is great value at £21.95 for three courses, and a traditional Sunday roast luncheon is only £35.25. A beautiful banqueting suite provides the perfect setting for private celebrations of up to 40 guests.

The King’s Head Location Station Road, Ivinghoe, Nr. Leighton Buzzard, Buckinghamshire, LU7 9EB t: 0844 683 5348 w: www.kingsheadivinghoe.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European


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SHWith an incredible 140 eateries in St Albans, it’s quite an achievement that Freddie’s has scooped two local Restaurant of the Year awards as well as a TripAdvisor Certifi cate of Excellence every year since 2012. It’s understandable, however, when you experience its winning combination of creative menus, thoughtful wine selection and delicious food. This family-run restaurant has served up modern European cuisine for 15 years under the leadership of the charismatic Freddie, who still makes early morning visits to Smithfi eld and Billingsgate markets to procure the freshest and tastiest ingredients.

‘...this family-run restaurant has served up modern European cuisine for 15 years...’

Starters include marinated avocado and beetroot stack, served with honey-roasted walnuts and goat’s cheese, whilst the main menu features numerous seafood dishes, such as the pancetta-wrapped loin of cod with a basil cream sauce, accompanied by caramelised shallots, new potatoes and vegetables. On Sundays, there is a special three-course menu of traditional favourites, and to create a pleasant pairing of food with drink there’s also a detailed international wine list.

Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10pm

Freddie’s Location 52-56 Adelaide Street, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5BG t: 01727 811889 w: www.freddies.org.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European

Open: Mon-Sat noon-2.15pm (last orders), 7pm-9.15pm (last orders); Sun noon-2.30pm (last orders)

£22to

£34

SB

£22to

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WH

Take one look at this restaurant’s menu and you’ll know immediately that you’re in for a pretty special meal. Starters such as fresh Cornish crab with home-smoked salmon and chive cream; poached egg cocotte with asparagus and Stilton cream; and ham hock rillette with homemade piccalilli banish any thoughts you had of going straight to the main course. Impatience is understandable though, as mains include the likes of venison fi llet with pheasant caillette and Cumberland jus, and poached wild cod with braised Savoy cabbage and a parsley marinière sauce. With such a menu, The Nags Head’s AA rosette for culinary excellence hardly comes as a surprise. Similarly, with its idyllic setting, rustic 15th-Century interior and cosy guest rooms, titles of Food Pub of the Year and Accommodation Pub of the Year, as well as a place in Countryfi le magazine’s ‘Top 55 cosiest country pubs in Britain’ are all well earned.

The Bricklayers Arms is a culinary oasis set in an expanse of beautiful Hertfordshire countryside. After a tentative double take, hungry walkers are pleased to fi nd this gorgeous pub is not, in fact, a mirage, and they have actually hit upon one of the fi nest restaurants for miles. Secreted down an unassuming country road, this inviting, ivy-covered 18th-Century pub is a popular spot for those in the know, and equally worth visiting for a leisurely pint as it is for a three-course meal. Opt for the latter and you can look forward to the likes of chicken, bacon and walnut terrine, and pan-fried Cornish king scallops with celeriac purée and dry pancetta to start, and ox cheek slow-cooked in ale and honey to follow. The Bricklayers Arms’ award-winning head chef, Claude Paillet, crafts beautiful seasonal menus, and he and the team smoke all fi sh and meat in-house.

Food Served: Mon-Sat 8am-10am, noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun 8am-10am, noon-3.30pm, 6.30pm-8.30pm

Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-3.30pm, 6.30pm-8.30pm

The Bricklayers Arms Location Hogpits Bottom, Flaunden, Hertfordshire, HP3 0PH t: 0843 155 0481 w: www.bricklayersarms.com e: [email protected]

Modern European

The Nags Head Location London Road, Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, HP16 0DG t: 0843 155 0482 w: www.nagsheadbucks.com e: [email protected]

Modern European



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CB

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SHA hotel since 1927, Aubrey Park boasts a heritage which stretches back to the 13th Century. However, the restaurant is anything but ancient and features stylish and contemporary decor which makes you feel immediately at ease, from the moment you step through the door. From the fi rst glance, the à la carte menu attempts to whisk you off on a journey of culinary delight, with a line-up that changes every three months and utilises as much locally sourced, seasonal produce as possible. We were immediately drawn to the seared Atlantic scallops, and chicken and chorizo risotto; choices which did not disappoint. For our main courses, my companion was tempted by the freshness of the market fi sh of the day, but eventually settled on the roasted chicken supreme, which was stuffed with an apple and black pudding mousse – a delicious blend of the sweet and the savoury. I opted for the Brasserie’s signature dish of whole roasted partridge served wrapped in smoked bacon, accompanied by game chips,

and a savoury Savoy cabbage and redcurrant sauce – faultless. Each dish was beautifully presented and demonstrated that a great deal of care is given to the creation of each dish. I can also attest to it tasting every bit as good as it looks. For those wishing for something lighter than our dining experience, there’s also a bar menu offering burgers, pasta and pizza dishes, and we spied a tempting Sunday lunch menu, too.

One of the many things that makes Slip End’s Frog & Rhubarb stand out from the crowd – apart from its quirky name, of course – is its unique combination of village-pub charm and contemporary, Mediterranean-inspired food. At this welcoming pub, hearty British classics such as beer-battered cod and steak, Guinness and mushroom pie vie for attention on the menu with European dishes such as paella and slow-cooked beef stifado. The result is a varied, eclectic selection of quality home-cooked fare with something to please traditionalists and more adventurous diners alike. We began with tapas to share: garlic butterfl y king prawns, hearty Italian meatballs with a touch of chilli, smoked mackerel and piquant horseradish paté crostini, and tangy goat’s cheese and caramelised onion crostini. After sampling such bold fl avours, we were ready for more, and so happily tucked into slow-cooked pork belly with wholegrain mustard and cider sauce – with crunchy crackling that contrasted

beautifully with the tender meat – and, from the specials board, smoked salmon, asparagus and cannellini bean pasta in white wine and creme fraiche, topped with Grana Padano and served with garlic ciabatta. To fi nish, we couldn’t resist sampling the battered Mars bar with ice cream, which was as indulgent as it sounds, and the moreish homemade trifl e. The Frog & Rhubarb specialises in both the classic and the quirky – after all, where else can you fi nd gammon, egg and chips, frogs’ legs and a deep-fried Mars bar on the same menu?

Brasserie at Aubrey Park Location Hemel Hempstead Road, Redbourn, Hertfordshire, AL3 7AF t: 0843 153 0481 w: www.aubreypark.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European

Frog & Rhubarb Location Church Road, Slip End, Bedfordshire, LU1 4BJ t: 0844 683 8976 w: www.frogandrhubarb.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European


Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun 12.30pm-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm

Open: Mon-Sun noon-10pm

£20to

£30

NC

£19to

£35

EH

This 17th-Century country pub was a derelict shell before Peter and Jessica Tatlow breathed new life into it in the summer of 2010. It is now a destination pub that puts the quiet, unassuming village of Braughing well and truly on the map.All meals are freshly prepared by the team of three chefs, and ingredients are sourced as locally as possible, including the famed Braughing sausage. An ever-changing menu ensures variety is the spice of life at The Golden Fleece. The choice is updated monthly and there is a daily specials board, so repeat visitors (and I guarantee you’ll want to come again) will always fi nd something new to try. Firm favourites like steaks and burgers are always on offer, and there’s an excellent range of gluten and dairy-free dishes, plus a separate menu for vegetarians.We kicked off with outstanding starters of puff pastry tartlet fi lled with goat’s cheese, peppadew peppers and pancetta, and sliced avocado and coronation chicken. These were followed by wholesome mains of tender 8oz fi llet steak with hand-cut chunky chips, fl at mushroom, cherry

tomatoes and a colourful medley of vegetables, and the must-try Braughing sausage burger served in a ciabatta with homemade slaw, hand-cut chunky chips and relishes. Finishing with baked fi g, date and Riesling cheesecake with vanilla ice cream and spiced apple crumble with custard, we concluded that this pub is a real fi nd, offering fi rst-class food at reasonable prices. What more could you ask for?

Set in a listed Georgian town house in the heart of Aylesbury in the county of Buckinghamshire, just a minute’s walk from the Waterside Theatre, the new Waitrose and the Travelodge, is The Greek Taverna. This contemporary restaurant has been open for almost six years with an ethos of providing wholesome, healthy, fresh and affordable food, with no trans fats used in deep frying or anywhere else, based on a Mediterranean diet from regional Greece and Cyprus with additional cuisine under consideration.Fulfi lling this ethos, provisions are sourced direct from wholesale markets in London regularly, with fresh meat from Smithfi eld (including Aberdeen Angus beef), fresh fi sh and seafood from Billingsgate, fresh greens from Spitalfi elds and fresh fl owers, when required, from New Covent Garden. These very fresh ingredients are prepared and cooked in-house and served direct from kitchen to table for the enjoyment of diners. Islamic diners are also catered for. On Fridays and Saturdays (and Thursdays on request), the restaurant provides entertainment such as zorba dancing, plate smashing with belly dancing by

arrangement, Greek music and a DJ and is open until 2am so guests can party into the night. The Greek Taverna caters for anniversaries, birthdays, corporate events, leaving parties, hen and stag nights, weddings, engagements (the registry offi ce is nearby), Valentine’s Day and Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties. Enjoy good, fresh food – or just drinks from a well-stocked bar with entertainment – while being served by friendly and unobtrusive staff.

The Golden Fleece Location 20 Green End, Braughing, Nr. Ware, Hertfordshire, SG11 2PG t: 0844 683 5351 w: www.goldenfl eecebraughing.co.uk e: pub@goldenfl eecebraughing.co.uk

The Greek Taverna Location 23a Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1TZ t: 0844 683 9016 w: www.the-greek-taverna.co.uk e: [email protected]

Greek

Modern European



Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Fri 11.30am-3.30pm, 5.30pm-midnight; Sat 11.30am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm (seasonal variations apply)

Open: Mon 5pm-late; Tues-Thurs noon-3pm, 5pm-late; Fri & Sat noon-3pm, 5pm-2am; Sun noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm (booking required for lunch ordered from the à la carte menu)

£15to

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SH

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This award-winning, Cask Marque-accredited pub is a real gem in the heart of Hertfordshire, boasting a convivial atmosphere and calming environment in which guests can relax with some of the best food and drink in the local area.Situated in the pretty town of Harpenden between Luton and St Albans, Gibraltar Castle is an ideal place to stop for a lovely lunch or dinner whilst out exploring the surrounding countryside. Owners Michele and Hamish have worked hard to preserve the pub’s character, maintaining many of its original and defi ning features. Boasting a beautiful vaulted ceiling, exposed wooden beams and a rustic fi replace to cosy up in front of, this is a truly romantic environment, ideal for gatherings with loved ones. If the characterful decor isn’t enough to impress, the food and drink offering is bound to catch your attention. Featuring an abundance of excellent quality produce, the menu is bursting with traditional home-cooked delights and exotic meat and fi sh-based dishes. From London Pride-battered cod

to ostrich fi llets or wild boar served with creamed leeks, long green beans, Lyonnaise potatoes and a red wine and juniper berry sauce, there is something to suit all tastes. You can rest assured that whatever you choose will be lovingly and freshly prepared by the team of talented chefs. Accompany your meal with one of the expertly selected wines or a pint of quality ale and you’re sure to remember this lovely local for all the right reasons.

The Junction Pub & Kitchen has come a long way since its inception in 2011. Bright, spacious and family friendly, The Junction is defi nitely a convenient one-stop destination, whether for business or simply a chat with your family and friends by the cosy fi replace.

The Junction’s freshly made award-winning food and wide selection of wine makes it popular in the local vicinity. This gastropub offers a diverse menu of locally sourced (where possible), seasonal ingredients. Dishes regularly change to refl ect the seasons and make the most of produce when it’s at its best. Dishes range from lighter bar snacks, salads and panini to more substantial dinner options such as aromatic slow-roasted pork belly and kumquat and star anise braised lamb shank.

The Junction’s neatly crafted events and group dining options are designed with the variety of guests it caters to from across High Wycombe, Marlow and Beaconsfi eld in mind, ensuring all enjoy a satisfying meal and an eventful time. The management is proud that their constant efforts to attain and maintain the highest standards of hospitality are being recognised and appreciated widely – all in just three years.

Gibraltar Castle Location Lower Luton Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 5AH t: 0844 683 5418 w: www.gibraltarcastle.co.uk

Gastropub

The Junction Pub & Kitchen Location 551 London Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 1ET t: 0843 153 0483 w: www.junctionpub.co.uk e: [email protected]

Gastropub


Open: Sun-Weds 11am-midnight; Thurs-Sat 11am-2am

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-8pm

£18to

£30

CBThe French Horn, located in the rural village of Steppingley, is an attractive old pub with real heart. The lovely rooms are full of character – think oak beams, Chesterfi eld sofas and a brick inglenook – which give the place a homely, inviting feel. The wood-burning stove makes this an especially cosy spot in winter.Behind the well-stocked bar you’ll fi nd plenty of real ales and a great wine list (many varieties are available by the glass) as well as an interesting range of malt whiskies. When it comes to the food, great care is taken in the creation of every dish – quality ingredients take centre stage and presentation is consistently immaculate. To start, choose from the likes of chilli-coated whitebait with aioli, baked Brie and fi g fi lo parcels and peppered venison Carpaccio with orange, all of which are guaranteed to whet your appetite. Follow with tender confi t duck leg with sweet potato mash, curly kale and cinnamon-spiced clementine or beer-battered cod with hand-cut chips and minted crushed peas and you won’t be disappointed. There’s also 28-day-aged rib-eye or sirloin, cooked exactly to your liking and served with all the trimmings. Whatever you choose, rest assured that your meal will be cooked fresh to order.Whether you fancy casual drinking

and dining in the bar or a relaxed restaurant meal, this is the place to go. Four-legged friends are most welcome, and the adventure playground outside is great for the little ones.

The French Horn Location Church End, Steppingley, Bedfordshire, MK45 5AU t: 0843 153 0482 w: www.frenchhornpub.co.uk

Gastropub



Open: Mon-Thurs noon-midnight; Fri & Sat noon-1am; Sun noon-11pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Fri & Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-11pm

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The village of Bledlow Ridge, with its stunning views of the Ridgeway and Aylesbury Plain, used to boast fi ve pubs. When the last one, The Boot, was threatened with closure the local community stepped in and saved it. The pub is now owned by nearly 200 shareholders, and is ably run by Bledlow Ridge-born-and-bred Emma and her husband Andy. They’ve created a vision of traditional but updated elegance, with high beams, tongue-and-groove panelling, slate fl oors, refl ective surfaces and a delightful garden.The menu changes seasonally and is supplemented by specials, with the focus on sophisticated and satisfying dishes cooked to order. I indulged my love of fi sh with tender squid followed by two generous fi llets of sea bass, while my husband started with a crisp, deep-fried ham hock dish before moving on to a trio of lamb. For dessert, I enjoyed the salted caramel torte with raspberry coulis

and my husband somehow found room for an exquisite passion fruit creme brulée. The fl avour of each dish was spot on, right down to the accompanying fresh vegetables, and the presentation was attractive without being pretentious. Throughout our visit to this busy and bustling pub, we enjoyed friendly service. By the end of the meal, we both felt well-fed, relaxed and content.

The Cowper Arms is an independently run pub in the village of Digswell, which benefi ts from being right next door to the Welwyn North commuter train station – there’s always a patron or two who’s popped in for a post-journey drink or a bite throughout the week. The pub prides itself on being a vibrant and busy establishment, and was recently voted the best local in Welwyn Hatfi eld in a competition run by Grant Shapps MP, awarded at a ceremony in Westminster. In addition to the core pub menu which is full of freshly cooked, hearty, classic pub favourites, the pub offers an extensive daily specials menu with gastropub food on offer. Ensuring there’s something to suit everyone’s taste and budget, the tried-and-tested recipes include the rabbit fricassee, a brilliantly executed Chateaubriand steak, authentic paella, and a trinchado hailing from Mozambique. Main dishes start at £10, and starters and desserts at £4.50.

Cowper Arms also boasts a great roast dinner on Sundays, for which booking is essential as they always have a full house. Other events include steak nights on Mondays, open mic nights every Tuesday and a quiz on Sundays. The Cowper Arms is a great place to spend an evening or afternoon. This is a pub that serves top-notch food and drink in a friendly and unpretentious style.

The Boot Location Chinnor Road, Bledlow Ridge, Nr. High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4AW t: 0843 153 0486 w: www.theboot-bledlowridge.co.uk e: [email protected]

Gastropub

Cowper Arms Location 31 Station Road, Digswell, Hertfordshire, AL6 0EA t: 0843 153 0487 w: www.cowperarmsdigswell.co.uk e: [email protected]

Gastropub


Food Served: Tues-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-6pm

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm




£17to

£22

WH

The Spotted Dog, in the heart of the charming Hertfordshire village of Flamstead, has been a public house since the 1600s. This characterful historic building has been carefully renovated into an inviting space in which visitors can relax and linger with family and friends. Claire and Tom, the new landlords, warmly invite you to enjoy great food, fi ne ales and wines along with quality coffee and breakfast from their morning café, Coffeedog.

‘...this characterful historic building has beencarefully renovated into an inviting space...’

The pub is well-situated just two minutes from Junction 9 on the M1 whilst being surrounded by glorious Hertfordshire countryside at the edge of the Chilterns, with endless opportunities for walking and cycling. Dogs and welly boots are welcome in the bar where you can relax on unique reclaimed furniture from the 50s and 60s and be inspired by artwork, coffee table books, magazines, newspapers and even board games.

The comfortably furnished bar leads through to a private dining room on one side, seating up to 12 guests at a handsome table, and a restaurant on the other, which has a capacity of 24. Here you can relax in the candlelit atmosphere and choose from the seasonal menu. The space is also adaptable for other gatherings with a comprehensive buffet menu available.

The menu features locally sourced ingredients where possible and all meat and fi sh comes from fully traceable origins with the minimum amount of food miles possible. Featuring modern British cuisine with a Mediterranean infl uence, the menu ensures you’ll fi nd something delicious to suit your tastes. Every dish is made fresh to order by the acclaimed and talented head chef and quick service is available for busy business lunches.

Whether you’re in search of a light business brunch, an intimate dinner or a relaxed family get-together, great food and drink is assured at The Spotted Dog. Claire and Tom welcome you to enjoy their hospitality.

Gastropub The Spotted Dog Location 8 High Street, Flamstead, Hertfordshire, AL3 8BS t: 0843 153 0489 w: www.thespotteddog.co.uk e: [email protected]

Spotted Dog Open: Tues & Weds noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-11.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-9pmSpotted Dog Food Served: Weds-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sun noon-3pm(please see the website for Tues food service times)Coffeedog Open: Sat-Mon 9am-noon; Tues-Fri 8am-noon

*£14

to£24

NC

£29to

£45

SH

This fantastic pub is owned by David Cavalier who has earned an astonishing seven Michelin stars during his illustrious career. During our lunch visit, we started with textured chicken liver paté with homemade pickles and a refreshing prawn cocktail. Next, we chose the pheasant with juicy wild mushroom, and the lobster, both of which arrived perfectly cooked. Too full for dessert, we followed with aromatic fresh coffee and resolved to save room on our next visit. It wasn’t just the food that caught our attention during our visit to The Village Gate; there are daily special offers to take advantage of and several luxurious private dining areas available to hire, making it a fabulous choice for parties and functions. This is certainly a venue worth travelling a distance for. *£14 represents the cost of three dishes from the bar menu and a glass of wine; £24 represents the cost of two courses from the restaurant menu and a glass of wine.

Set amidst 300 acres of lush countryside, yet a mere 18 miles from Piccadilly Circus, the luxurious setting of The Grove hotel provides a welcome escape from the bustle of the capital. Open to residents and non-residents alike, The Stables, an AA-rosette-awarded restaurant, offers a charming dining environment, with sunny terraces, rustic oak tables, exposed wooden beams, leather banquettes and an intriguing view into the kitchen. During our visit we enjoyed chicken liver and Port terrine and sumptuous Stilton fritters with green apple, celery, watercress and sour honey before moving on to a juicy 8oz Scottish rib-eye steak accompanied by fl uffy hand-cut chips and Béarnaise sauce, and pot-roasted lamb with creamy mash, mushrooms and honey-roasted parsnips. Dessert saw such delights as warm fruit strudel with blackberry compote and custard – just the ticket for a chilly winter evening.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-late Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-9.30pm (last orders); Sun noon-6pm (last orders)

Open: Mon-Sat 7am-11am, noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun 7am-11am, 12.30pm-3.30pm, 6pm-9pm Bar Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 12.30pm-9.30pm

The Stables Location The Grove, Chandler’s Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG t: 0843 153 0491 w: www.thegrove.co.uk e: [email protected]

The Village Gate Location 225 Aylesbury Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6BA t: 0843 153 0492 w: www.thevillagegate.co.uk e: [email protected]

Gastropub

Gastropub




£23to

£28

NCTucked between the bustling towns of Buckingham and Winslow is the picturesque village of Adstock. Here, you’ll fi nd a gem of a gastropub and the deserving winner of Foodie Guide’s Favourite Restaurant in Buckinghamshire award in 2014: The Old Thatched Inn.

Pulling into the car park, we marvelled at this gorgeous 16th-Century thatched building from the outside. Pretty and inviting, it seemed to exude the promise of a very special evening. No sooner had we crossed the threshold than we were cordially greeted by welcoming staff who took our coats and encouraged us to make ourselves at home. The rustic dining room is cleverly laid out to afford privacy and space for guests, allowing you to feel relaxed and at ease while dining. The additional conservatory area would be great for parties and larger gatherings, while the bar offers comfortable, sociable seating, including a coveted spot in front of the open fi re.

The Old Thatched Inn boasts a carefully considered, seasonal menu of locally sourced food. Everything here – and we mean everything, from the bread to the ice cream – is homemade on site by the fantastic chefs. To start, we settled on the chicken liver parfait with a walnut and raisin crostini, and the delicate goat’s cheese beignet with honey dressing, which featured a wonderful balance of sweet and savoury fl avours. This was followed by a juicy Shorthorn sirloin steak from the grill, to which, as an afterthought, we added a side of onion rings. Little did we know they’d almost steal the show, stacked high and featuring the crispiest, tastiest batter. The fi sh pie was our second selection, made from fresh seafood which is delivered from Billingsgate market daily. To fi nish, we spoilt ourselves with a white chocolate mousse with crushed raspberries and an apple crumble tart with decadent caramel ice cream. Each and every dish was presented to the highest of standards.

Every member of the team is attentive, knowledgeable and charismatic – they all helped to create a wonderful atmosphere and made us feel that nothing was too much trouble. This tremendous gastropub puts Adstock well and truly on the culinary map.

Gastropub The Old Thatched Inn Location Main Street, Adstock, Buckinghamshire, MK18 2JN t: 0843 155 0469 w: www.theoldthatchedinn.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-8pm

£17to

£25

NH

£17to

£25

NHGastropubs are increasingly popular, so whenever I fi nd a new one I’m sceptical about their claims of culinary excellence. That was until I came across The Radcliffe Arms, which is conveniently situated less than fi ve minutes from Hitchin railway station and the town centre. We began by enjoying a cocktail at the bar, but it wasn’t long before we took to our seats, unable to resist the aromas coming from other tables.

To accompany our meal, we chose a bottle of 2007 Hawksburn Pinot Noir from the extensive and interesting list. My local rabbit and ham terrine starter, with a black truffl e and shallot salad, was exceptional, and my friend’s tiger prawns with a lobster and mango salad defi nitely exceeded expectations. For mains I chose the stone bass with crabcakes and brown shrimps, while my friend had the beautifully tender blade of beef.

I couldn’t resist trying the pear and almond tart for dessert, which matched the quality of any sampled in a Parisian patisserie. My friend was delighted with the cheeseboard, which featured a mix of the unusual, the pungent and old favourites. It takes an extremely good restaurant to impress me and The Radcliffe Arms did just that; my only regret is that such a fabulous evening had to end.

It’s fair to say that Cinnabar Café is a great place to be, no matter what time of day you walk through the door. Arrive in the morning to kick start your day with a punchy breakfast, enjoy a bite over lunch, sample from the cocktails and tapas menus in a candlelit setting or embrace the party atmosphere and live music in the evenings.

The interior exudes a sumptuous feel, with rich magenta walls and dark woods creating an elegant and stylish atmosphere, day or night. We chose from the dining menu, which features an extensive range of tapas, main meals and gourmet burgers to boot. We opted to share some tapas dishes, selecting sticky warm chorizo, roasted bell peppers stuffed with feta, and crispy calamari, all served on a chunky rustic board. My choice of main dish was a mouth-watering pulled pork board – a smorgasbord of sorts comprising rich, textured pulled

meat in a barbecue sauce, sliced pickles, homemade coleslaw and dressed salad. My companion chose from the selection of burgers and was thoroughly satisfi ed with their gourmet beef burger with chilli jam and Monterey Jack cheese, served in a brioche bun. Too full for puddings, we decided to enjoy a Blackberry Mojito each, which proved deliciously sweet and refreshing – my only qualm is that they left us with a longing to sample the entire cocktail menu.

The Radcliffe Arms Location 31 Walsworth Road, Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG4 9ST t: 0844 683 5409 w: www.radcliffearms.com e: [email protected]

Gastropub

Cinnabar Café Location 56-58 High Street, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 3EF t: 0844 683 8941 w: www.cinnabarcafe.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant


Food Served: Mon-Fri 9am-11am, noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sat 9am-11am, noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun 9am-11am, noon-2.30pm

Open: Mon-Fri 8am-9.30pm; Sat & Sun 9am-9.30pm

£23to

£28

EH

£16to

£30

SB

The Bull is situated in the pretty village of Cottered near Buntingford. This country pub is quintessentially English, housed within a charming building, boasts an attractive garden at the back and serves quality food and drink. Whilst you can expect the comfort and friendliness of a pub, the menu goes above and beyond offering standard pub food, with freshly cooked dishes available to suit every palate. Though the menu changes regularly, you might expect to fi nd starters like seared scallops and ham hock terrine with homemade piccalilli, and mains of duo of beef with honey-glazed carrots. The dessert selection is sure to tempt you, offering classics like apple crumble and perfectly chewy meringue with ice cream and raspberry sauce. If you have special dietary requirements, the helpful and accommodating staff will be on hand to ensure that you fi nd a suitable meal.

For affordable yet comfortable bed and breakfast accommodation, with a selection of delicious home-cooked food to boot, The Fox Country Inn should be your fi rst port of call. On the menu you’ll fi nd everything from sandwiches and afternoon tea to slow-roasted belly of pork and handmade burgers. This is one of the few pet-friendly venues in the area, so four-legged friends are welcome to accompany you during your stay. In addition to the tasty food and comfy rooms, you’ll also fi nd the perfect setting for private parties and functions, with the beautiful Chiltern Hills just on the doorstep, as well as a restful and friendly atmosphere to make your visit even more pleasant. Whether you’re in need of a fi lling meal, somewhere to host a special event or a lovely room for the night, you’ll fi nd everything you need at this delightful hotel.

Open: Mon-Sat 11.30am-3pm, 6.30pm-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

Food Served: Mon-Sun 7am-10am, noon-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm

The Fox Country Inn Location Ibstone Road, Ibstone, Nr. High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 3XT t: 0843 153 0493 w: www.foxcountryinn.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

The Bull Location Cottered, Nr. Buntingford, Hertfordshire, SG9 9QP t: 0843 153 0496 e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant



£15to

£30

EHNestled in the charming village of Brickendon is The Farmer’s Boy – a real gem of a pub in the Hertfordshire countryside. The venue has been lovingly restored by owners Andy and Joanna and is a perfect place to enjoy a quiet drink, a delicious meal and a catch up with loved ones. Andy and Joanna pride themselves on serving only the freshest, local and seasonal produce and their passion for quality is refl ected in the weekly changing menu, which features everything from 100-per-cent-beef burgers to wild mushroom and lentil Bourguignon and fresh seafood specials. Our meals were perfect; the roasted squash and goat’s cheese salad was superbly fresh and the pan-roasted sea bass was perfectly cooked and packed with fl avour. Also offering a host of regular events, including Christmas and spring fairs and summer barbecues, The Farmer’s Boy is a great choice for family outings.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-8pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-4pm

The Farmer’s Boy Location Brickendon, Hertfordshire, SG13 8NU t: 0843 153 0497 w: www.thefarmersboy.pub e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

£25to

£30

MK

*£8to

£10

SH

£15to

£23

SH

Housed within a Grade II listed building in Bricket Wood, the ever-popular Black Boy pub offers a lovely traditional feel and a welcoming atmosphere. The Black Boy also boasts a much-sought-after Cask Marque accreditation – you’ll fi nd a fi ne selection of real ales behind the well-stocked bar, comprising Timothy Taylor Landlord, Fuller’s ESB and Fuller’s London Pride. Good, honest home cooking is on the menu – expect the likes of breaded scampi, ham, egg and chips and an array of well-fi lled baguettes. The signature Black Boy half-pound beef burger, served with grilled onions, relish, salad and chips on the side, is perfect for hearty appetites, while the delicious jacket potatoes and sandwiches are ideal for a lunchtime bite. Promising generous portions, value for money and a warm welcome, The Black Boy is well worth seeking out. *Price range represents the average cost of a main meal and a drink.

Whether in Monte Carlo or Milton Keynes, casinos always have a feel of glitz and glamour about them. Housed inside MK Casino, Clary’s Bar & Grill is worth visiting in its own right – this stylish restaurant, with a bright, modern interior, succeeds in adding a touch of class to your dining experience. I began with a gorgeous prawn cocktail, smothered in Thousand Island sauce with fresh strawberries on the side, while my dining companion plumped for succulent duck breast with crispy pancetta and a dash of balsamic vinegar. Both were exquisite. Next, my juicy 10oz sirloin was grilled exactly to my liking and the side of mash was beautifully smooth and buttery. Meanwhile, my partner’s wild mushroom risotto, with al dente rice, was a rich, creamy and satisfying main course. The desserts sounded too good to miss – we rounded off with a decadent chocolate tart and a wonderfully presented creme brulée.

I believe great hosts are born, not made; and proving my point entirely is Pete Mann. He has created a fabulous environment at The Engineer where two things are immediately apparent: the staff just love working here; and the customers just love being here. With three distinctive areas, there’s bound to be a spot here with your name on it. The main lounge bar is a relaxing affair, perfect if you’re looking to chill out with one of the fi ve real ales or perhaps share a bottle of wine and one of The Engineer’s delectable deli boards with your friends. Sports fans will fi nd a lively atmosphere in the back bar where major sporting events are shown. If you’re after something a little more formal, head into the lovely conservatory and enjoy wonderful food from an eclectic menu, or hire the exclusive space for your private function. When the sun is shining, make use of the secluded al fresco dining area. The Engineer is one in a million.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

Grill Open: Mon-Sat 6pm-2am; Sun noon-2am Bar Open: Mon-Thurs 5pm-4am; Fri 5pm-6am; Sat noon-6am; Sun noon-4am

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-11pm

The Engineer Location 12 St Johns Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 1DJ t: 0844 683 8947 w: www.theengineerharpenden.co.uk e: [email protected]

The Black Boy Location 79 Old Watford Road, Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire, AL2 3RU t: 0843 153 0498 w: www.theblackboy.co.uk e: [email protected]

Clary’s Bar & Grill Location The Casino MK, Xscape, 602 Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 3XS t: 0843 153 0568 w: www.thecasinomk.co.uk

Bar & Grill

Bar

Bar & Restaurant


£25to

£35

CBWhere can you have dinner with Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant? At Adam’s Brasserie guests dine under the gaze of stars who have all appeared in fi lms shot on location at Luton Hoo.Housed in the original coach house and stable complex designed by famous 18th-Century architect Robert Adam, the brasserie offers a relaxed and informal atmosphere coupled with an excellent menu featuring stylish contemporary dishes and familiar favourites made from seasonal and local produce. Overlooking the stable courtyard, here guests can choose from cosy booths with leather banquettes lining one wall, or smart tables which are ideal for couples, families, business colleagues and golfers who have enjoyed a round on Luton Hoo’s adjoining parkland course.The brasserie menu changes regularly, but you can expect innovative starters such as crispy hen’s egg with warm chorizo and red pepper dressing, followed by main courses that might include braised venison shoulder or grilled sirloin of Casterbridge beef with grilled fl at mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes and chunky chips. Needless to say there are also plenty of tempting desserts – no wonder the

brasserie has been included in The Good Food Guide, as recommended by the public.The brasserie is open for lunch and dinner Monday to Saturday and from 12.30pm to 4pm for Sunday lunch, which also includes live jazz.

Adam’s Brasserie at Luton Hoo Hotel Location The Country Club, Luton Hoo Estate, Nr. Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ t: 0844 683 8914 w: www.lutonhoo.co.uk e: [email protected]

Brasserie



Open: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun 12.30pm-4pm

£15to

£22

WHIf you value the fi ner things in life – by which I mean good wine, quality cheese and wonderful meats – then a visit to Bentley’s Delicatessen is defi nitely in order. Located in Leverstock Green, close to Hemel Hempstead, this independent deli is the perfect spot for everything from takeaway coffees to casual sit-down meals. Step inside and you’ll discover a rustic, traditional setting and a veritable Aladdin’s cave of exquisite conserves, pickles, teas, chocolates and wine.

‘...a veritable Aladdin’s cave of exquisite conserves, pickles, teas, chocolates and wine...’

With so many tempting treats on display, we were intrigued to try the menu – it’s positively brimming with homemade goodies. To begin, we whetted our appetites with moreish Ardennes paté and a goat’s cheese, caramelised onion and roasted tomato tart with beautiful buttery

pastry for my companion. Both were absolutely delicious. Mains were just as tasty – I followed up with sizzling steak fajitas, which were full of fl avour and had a welcome kick of gentle heat, while my companion eagerly tucked into a hearty Bentley beef burger (a signature dish) with all the trimmings. We’ll be back again to try something sweet – the homemade cakes were diffi cult to resist. We left this lunchtime retreat feeling well and truly satisfi ed and couldn’t resist buying a little something to enjoy at home.

Open: Mon-Sun 8am-5pm

Bentley’s Delicatessen Location 5 Village Centre, Leverstock Green, Nr. Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP3 8QG t: 0843 153 0502

Delicatessen

£18to

£26

NH

WH

£25to

£30

SHFor an authentic American experience without racking up the air miles, head along to Billy’s, an American-style diner in the heart of Harpenden. Billy’s is conveniently situated on the High Street so is ideally placed if you need to refuel whilst out hitting the shops. In the evening, the fun, relaxed ambience makes it a perfect venue for birthdays or stag dos and the 40-strong cocktail menu certainly helps to maintain the celebratory atmosphere. Alongside perfectly executed classics like Tom Collins, Brambles and Margaritas, the menu features quirkier drinks like Lynchburg Lemonade with Jack Daniel’s, triple sec, sours and lemonade. The extensive drinks menu includes strawberry beer, American craft ales and 25 different wines, as well as plenty of scrumptious mocktails for non-drinkers.

The food menu has everything you’d hope for from an American diner, so why not start with a plate of wings or baby back ribs? From the main menu, tuck into a 35oz T-bone

steak and sides, or opt for an all-American chilli dog before fi nishing your meal with a throwback Knickerbocker Glory or a slice of apple pie.

In addition to a unique set-up and quirky decor, Billy’s also offers excellent entertainment, with DJ and live music nights every month. With a huge menu, cocktails and fantastic entertainment, Billy’s has everything you need to make a night of it. The friendly and dedicated staff are sure to remember you on your return.

Coast to Coast American Restaurant & Bar has been created by a team of people who genuinely love quality food, good drinks and great times. Serving everything from hearty morning breakfasts to sophisticated evening cocktails, Coast to Coast is a place to kick back, relax and let the good times roll, any time of day.One word is needed to sum up the menu – choice. Diners can choose from a selection of burgers, fajitas, grills, pastas, pizzas, salads, toasted wraps and more besides. Premium burgers are popular here; made daily from British beef, there are 15 different burgers to choose from. Or, why not try the spicy jambalaya, delicious baby back ribs, or tuna steak salad? These fantastic main courses are complemented by a host of delicious appetisers and desserts too.

It might sound somewhat clichéd to say that there’s something for everyone, but at Coast to Coast it’s true. At the bar you’ll fi nd over 30 cocktails, including everything from a fruity Pina Colada to the Cherry Cola. If it’s simply a beer you’re after though, there are classics such as Samuel Adams and crisp Budweiser 66. Coast to Coast is the perfect place to wind down after a busy week, so take a seat at the bar and let the bartenders entertain you with their chatter and amazing drinks.

Billy’s Bar & Restaurant Location 72 High Street, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2SP t: 0843 153 0503 w: www.billysbar.co.uk e: [email protected]

American

Coast to Coast Location Stevenage Leisure Park, Six Hills Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA t: 0843 155 0463 e: [email protected] Location Jarman Leisure Park, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4JW t: 0843 153 0504 e: [email protected] w: www.c2crestaurants.com

American


Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs-Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm



NC

£15to

£20

SH

WH

NH

Be

MK

SB Location The Galleria, Comet Way, Hatfi eld, Hertfordshire, AL10 0XY t: 0844 683 5503 Location Borehamwood Shopping Park, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire, WD6 4PR t: 0843 153 0506 Location Woodside Leisure Park, North Orbital Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD25 7JZ t: 0844 683 5509 Location Jarman Square, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4JX t: 0843 153 0507 Location Stevenage Leisure Park, Kings Way, Stevenage, Hertfordshire, SG1 2UA t: 0844 683 5538 Location Goldington Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK41 0DX t: 0844 683 5429 Location Xscape, Avebury Boulevard, Marlborough Gate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 3NX t: 0844 683 5531 Open: Mon-Sun 9am-11pm Location MK1 Leisure Park, Bletchley, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK1 1ST t: 0843 153 0508 Location The Kingston Centre, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK10 0BA t: 0843 155 0483 Location Cambridge Close Retail Park, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1DG t: 0844 683 5526 Location UCI Cinemas, Crest Road, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 1UA t: 0844 683 5487 Location The Eden Centre, 11 Denmark Street, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP11 2DB t: 0844 683 5496

According to the story, Frankie Giuliani was ten years old when, with his Mamma and Poppa, he left Sicily and landed at Ellis Island, New York in 1924. It was no surprise when the family opened a restaurant, everybody helping with the building and the cooking in equal measure – each of them had a favourite dish to contribute. In 1953 Poppa retired and Frankie and Benny took over the business, combining the best of popular American food with traditional Italian dishes. The rest is history...

Buzzing with the sound of lively chatter, this restaurant attracts everybody from couples and parties of friends out for good times and great food, to families treating themselves to a night out – children are extremely well catered for, with their own menu, activities and games. The choice is so massive that making a decision is a diffi cult task. To start, try the succulent chicken wings tossed in a choice of either American BBQ or Louisiana hot sauce, served with a cooling dip. Magnifi cent mains range from pastas, speciality pizzas, burgers, grills and calzone, to 28-day-aged steaks, salads, sandwiches and specials, with fi sh and vegetarian dishes aplenty. To fi nish, perhaps share The Godfather, Frankie & Benny’s iconic dessert.

In typical Stateside fashion, service at Frankie & Benny’s is second to none. Nothing is too much trouble for the obliging and friendly staff. So loosen your tie, relax, settle into your booth and relish the wonderful feeling of a very satisfi ed appetite.

Italian American Frankie & Benny’s w: www.frankieandbennys.com Open: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm

£15to

£30

SHDistinctly different and thoroughly charming, Kamillos Restaurant in St Albans offers a refreshing break from the old dining routine. Exquisite Italian fare is the name of the game at this St Albans favourite.The charismatic Kamillo is at the helm, providing his loyal following of regulars with a menu that holds creativity in abundance, and enough Mediterranean fl avour to convince you that you’ve hopped over to Italy for a few hours. Comprising three main areas, each of which offers its own distinct dining experience, Kamillos is spacious, freshly styled, light and comfortable – everything a setting needs to make eating out a real pleasure. Choose the main dining area and you’ll be right in the hubbub, able to take in the buzzing atmosphere and watch the chefs at work in the open kitchen. The sight of the traditional pizza oven and the aroma of its smoking beechwood will instantly make pizza a meal forerunner – but don’t make your mind up too quickly.Prompt service with a genuine smile is guaranteed, making the decision-making process an absolute pleasure. Starters are authentic and tempting. My personal choice is always the Camembert fritti – deep fried and served with a tart cranberry sauce, it exemplifi es decadence. Classic options include bruschetta and melanzane alla Parmigiana – a glorious combination of aubergines, tomato sauce, mozzarella and Parmesan baked to a meltingly delicious fi nish. For your main course, you can select from pasta dishes, those pizzas I mentioned and house specials like the agnello all a menta in aceto balsamico – tender lamb in a light white wine sauce with balsamic vinegar and fresh mint, served with mashed potatoes.The second of the aforementioned areas is the lovely mezzanine, which is perfect for parties and gatherings. It overlooks the main restaurant, so you are able to enjoy your privacy while still feeling part of the action below. Lastly, the garden and al fresco eating area are perfect for soaking up a few rays when the British summer is in full swing. Add a glass of crisp Frascati to proceedings and you’ll feel a thousand miles away.It’s about the whole experience at Kamillos, from its convenient location, close to the city centre, exquisite presentation of dishes and superb ingredients, to the excellent service from a dedicated team. Kamillos is my fi rst choice for Italian dining in St Albans.

ItalianKamillos Restaurant Location 2 Marlborough Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3XQ t: 0843 153 0509 w: www.kamillos.co.uk


Open: Please call for details

Bella Italia Italian T 01908 395369 W www.bellaitalia.co.uk For a taste of Italy for the whole family, take a trip to Bella Italia and experience excellent pizza, pasta, meat and fi sh dishes that won’t break the bank. Little diners are catered for with colouring books and a great menu, and there is an excellent wine list for the grown-ups. Whether you are looking for decent Italian food or simply to enjoy a cappuccino and pastries with friends, Bella is the perfect venue.

Lloyds Bar Bar & Restaurant T 01908 558905 W www.lloydsno1.co.uk Well-known for its affordable pub fare, Lloyds guarantees a satisfying, relaxing dining experience. Open daily from 10am, when they serve a great cooked breakfast (until midday), Lloyds continues serving food until 11pm. Steak Club is on Tuesdays; ‘Wing it Wednesdays’ offer chicken specials at great prices; Thursday is Curry Club and Friday is all about fresh fi sh, with a main and a drink available for just £5.25. Lloyds stays open until 3am on Friday and Saturday, 2am on Thursday, 1am on Sunday and midnight the rest of the week, making it the ideal place to continue the party and enjoy drinks and a dance with friends.

Red Hot World Buffet International T 01908 609606 W www.redhot-worldbuffet.com Those who believe that variety is the spice of life had better head to Red Hot World Buffet. With over 100 dishes from seven different countries, Red Hot offers a superior buffet experience. You can take a culinary journey to anywhere in the world – all from the comfort of recently refurbished surroundings. Witness and enjoy freshly prepared food at the live Japanese, Italian, fi sh and world grill stations then sample the delights of the ice cream parlour. Add to this a range of refreshing cocktails, wines and beers for a truly unique night out.

MK Social Bar & Restaurant T 0333 311 1300 W www.mksocial.co.uk A new addition to the Theatre District, MK Social does not disappoint. With a delicious range of dishes available featuring fresh local produce, in addition to a drinks menu ranging from signature cocktails and craft beers to a handpicked selection of wines, MK Social has all you need for a good time. Afterwards, head to the dance fl oor and show off your best moves.

Theatre District Central Milton Keynes MK9 3PUFor further information and competitions please visit: www.theatre-district.co.uk

perfect venue.

offer chicken specials at great prices; Thursday is Curry Club and Friday is all about fresh fi sh, with a main and a drink available for just £5.25. Lloyds stays open until 3am on Friday and Saturday, 2am on Thursday, 1am on Sunday and midnight the rest of the week, making it the ideal place to continue the party and enjoy drinks and a dance with friends.

Theatre DistrictTheatre District Central Milton Keynes MK9 3PU Central Milton Keynes MK9 3PU

Bella Italia

Lloyds Bar

Red Hot World BuffetInternational T 01908 609606W Those who believe that variety is the spice of life had better head to Red Hot World Buffet. With over 100 dishes from seven different countries, Red Hot offers a superior buffet experience. You can take a culinary journey to anywhere in the world – all from the comfort of recently refurbished surroundings. Witness and enjoy freshly prepared food at the live Japanese, Italian, fi sh and

beers to a handpicked selection of wines, MK Social has all you need for a good time. Afterwards, head to the dance fl oor and show off your


The Slug and Lettuce Bar & Restaurant T 01908 395147 W www.slugandlettuce.co.uk Whatever your age and whatever the time of day, The Slug and Lettuce always offers a friendly welcome and an exciting menu featuring everything from mouth-watering burgers to fresh salads. The sharing platters are always popular with groups of friends, particularly when taking advantage of the giant screens upstairs which show live sporting events. Planning a party? The Slug and Lettuce offers a range of party packages for corporate events and even hen dos. Don’t miss the special deals on offer through the week, including 50 per cent off food on their ever-popular ‘Happy Mondays’.

Taipan Chinese T 01908 331883 W www.taipan-mk.co.uk Included in The Good Food Guide 2012, 2013 and 2014, Taipan offers an amazing Chinese experience. They have a team of top chefs and their exquisite, handmade dim sum is renowned. Whether you are looking for a relaxing lunch, a pre or post-theatre meal or a special-occasion Chinese banquet for a group, family or couple, you are guaranteed wonderful food and excellent service at this unique venue.

TGI Friday’s American T 0844 692 0283W www.tgifridays.co.uk If you have never been to this restaurant you are missing out. Whether you are one or 100 years old, you are guaranteed to enjoy this venue with its great American food and the most amazing, friendly service – before long you will be joining in with the singing and celebrations along with everyone else. Their ribs and burgers are legendary, as are their fabulous cocktails. Known as a great party venue, TGI Friday’s is also perfect for a quieter lunch.

Zizzi Italian T 01908 540222 W www.zizzi.co.uk If warm service, a relaxed atmosphere and sublime Italian food are your thing, then recently refurbished Zizzi is the destination for you. The menu features true Italian fl avours and offers much more than just pizza, with a range of delicious meat and fi sh dishes to try. Look out for Zizzi’s seasonal offers, plus great deals for the bambini.

All the featured establishments have a disabled toilet and

wheelchair access

quieter lunch.

ZizziItalian TW If warm service, a relaxed atmosphere and sublime Italian food are your thing, then recently refurbished Zizzi is the destination for you. The menu features true Italian fl avours and offers much more than just pizza,

The Slug

offers much more than just pizza, with a range of delicious meat and fi sh dishes to try. Look out for Zizzi’s seasonal offers, plus great deals for the bambini.

and sublime Italian food are your thing, then recently refurbished Zizzi is the destination for you. The menu features true Italian fl avours and offers much more than just pizza,

01908 540222www.zizzi.co.uk

If warm service, a relaxed atmosphere


T he Theatre District offers a plethora of eating-out and drinking options, with something to suit every possible taste, right in the centre of Milton Keynes. With food from around the world, stylish bars, al fresco dining options, unique entertainment, nightclubs and a convenient location (next door to the Milton Keynes Theatre), it’s no wonder this is the place where ‘Milton Keynes eats, drinks and plays’.

of eating-out and drinking options, with something to suit every possible taste, right in the centre of Milton Keynes. With food from around the world, stylish bars, al fresco dining options, stylish bars, al fresco dining options, unique entertainment, nightclubs and unique entertainment, nightclubs and a convenient location (next door to the Milton Keynes Theatre), it’s no wonder this is the place where ‘Milton Keynes this is the place where ‘Milton Keynes eats, drinks and plays’.eats, drinks and plays’.



£15to

£25

WHForget your bog-standard barbecue chicken and mediocre meat feast – at Oscars, a dedicated team of chefs create innovative pizzas like the Oscars Famous Pizza, which comprises mozzarella cheese, tomato, peppers, artichoke, basil, garlic, onion and Gorgonzola, and the Enzo Ferrari, with mozzarella, tomato, pepperoni sausage and chilli peppers. Oscars also specialises in seafood, meat and poultry, as well as traditional pasta dishes.Set in the heart of Kings Langley, Oscars Pizza Company encompasses the vibrant spirit of the Mediterranean. Founded in 1996 and still going strong, this restaurant’s booming reputation is down to the consistently high-quality food, affordable prices and exceptional service. The lively staff will make you feel part of the family from the moment you step inside, and the naturally convivial atmosphere will draw you into a world of Italian hospitality.Oscars prides itself on its family-friendly vibe and offers a ‘menu per bambini’, which gives little ones of ten and under the chance to try authentic Italian cuisine for just £6.50 for a starter and main course (including an activity pack). When it comes to choosing for yourself, you might discover your indecisive side – the sheer depth and breadth of the menu is a triumph in itself, but once you realise that every dish is created in-house with passion, using the freshest ingredients, you’ll be wishing you had the room to try them all. The drinks list is just as extensive; perhaps sample a bottle of Valpolicella or a fi ne Bel Mondo Champagne with your meal.The selection of antipasti offers a wide range of moreish Mediterranean fl avours. Sample the pollo alla crema (chicken breast with white wine, cream, mushrooms and garlic) or crostini d’ampezzo, which consists of toasted bread topped with pesto, goat’s cheese and caramelised onions. Mains include pizzas, pastas, calzone, salads, fi sh and meat dishes; perhaps try the penne pasta with Gorgonzola, Parmesan, spinach and cream sauce, or the veal escalope in breadcrumbs, lightly fried in butter and served with spaghetti bolognese. Before you end your evening, indulge in a cheeky chocolate fudge cake, homemade tiramisu or the heavenly banoffee pie – a true favourite among regulars. With room to seat 70 inside and a lovely garden area for al fresco dining, no one will, or should, miss out on Oscars.

Italian Oscars Pizza Company Location 21 High Street, Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, WD4 8AB t: 0844 683 5489 w: www.oscarspizza.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-10.30pm (last orders)

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SH

£17to

£23

SHStep through the doors of Pasta Cibo, away from the hubbub of Harpenden’s Station Road, and you’ll instantly feel like you have been transported to a trattoria in Italy. The warm and cosy interior is adorned with a unique assortment of trinkets and photos, creating a personal, individual space that very much befi ts the comforting Italian fare served up here. Pasta Cibo’s cuisine is rustic, simple, fl avourful and fresh. With over 34 years of culinary experience under their belts, the chefs certainly know what they are doing when it comes to creating great Italian food from time-honoured family recipes.Traditionalists will be pleased to fi nd a selection of classic pasta dishes and pizzas, while more adventurous diners will fi nd plenty to tempt on the ever-changing specials board. We began with the highly recommended bread-crumbed, deep-fried medallions of gooey mozzarella to start, and could understand why it is one of Pasta Cibo’s most popular starters. The antipasti platter of olives, artichokes,

cured meats, mozzarella, tomato and salad dressed in rich balsamic vinegar also packed a punch. We were equally impressed by the pollo alla valdostana main – pan-fried chicken breast with Parma ham, mozzarella and a rich tomato sauce – as well as the crespelle alla fl orentina, a fantastic vegetarian dish of rolled pancakes with spinach, mozzarella and ricotta cheese in a tomato sauce. Rich, boozy tiramisu rounded off our authentic Italian experience in a suitably indulgent fashion.

One of two Italian eateries in the village of Welwyn, Vita has secured a loyal local following since opening in 2013, thanks to its dedicated team. When you consider the range of delicious dishes on offer, it’s clear to see why this lovely family-run restaurant has become such a popular haunt for food lovers in the area. Here you’ll discover authentic Italian dishes with a Latin infl uence – a nod to head chef Matheus’ South American background – and an extensive wine list that will take you on a journey across the globe. If you’re looking for somewhere you can truly relax then look no further; the friendly staff at Vita are committed to making diners feel as welcome as possible and the laid-back atmosphere of the characterful dining area is sure to leave you feeling right at home. If you’re planning a special event, you might like to make use of the

private function room and impress your guests with Vita’s attentive service and delicious food.

Offering everything from home-cooked pasta and risotto to freshly prepared pizza and a choice of fresh fi sh and tasty meat options, Vita is a restaurant you’ll be delighted to discover and sure to return to time again.

Pasta Cibo Location 2 Harding Parade, Station Road, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 4SW t: 0843 153 0512 w: www.pastacibo.com

Italian

Vita Ristorante Italiano Location 12 High Street, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9EQ t: 0843 153 0514 w: www.vitaristorante.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian


Open: Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sun 6pm-10pm

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-9pm

£15to

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SH

Many restaurants on the St Albans dining scene have come and gone, but La Cosa Nostra has stayed the distance, remaining a fi rm favourite with local diners for 20 years. This family-run Italian eatery has built a loyal following by keeping things simple and authentic, offering superb service, excellent homemade Italian fare and a buzzing atmosphere – a combination that has earned it praise from Harden’s. This is somewhere you can pop in for a quick lunch, indulge in a leisurely three-course feast, or even hire the whole restaurant or downstairs seating area for a meeting or private function. Children are always made welcome too, as almost everything on the menu can be made in a smaller portion.A meal at La Cosa Nostra might begin with deep-fried breaded parcels fi lled with mozzarella and served with red onion chutney, the chef’s mixed seafood salad, or tomato, avocado and mozzarella salad with a fresh basil pesto. In terms of main courses, you can expect fi rst-class traditional pasta dishes and pizzas, as well as lunch offers and a variety

of seasonal specials. Pasta fans will love the likes of the linguine alfredo, featuring bacon, onions, mushrooms and peas in a cream sauce, while pizza afi cionados will be more than pleased with options such as the Fortunato topped with tomato, mozzarella, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms, red peppers and pepperoni. Finish with classic gelato or pastiera di nonna, a traditional Italian custard pastry topped with pine nuts and sugar.

La Cosa Nostra Location 62 Lattimore Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3XR t: 0843 153 0516 w: www.lacosanostraltd.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian



Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-4pm

£18to

£25

SHLocated on a picturesque walking route in the quaint hamlet of Ayot Green, this 17th-Century coaching inn oozes character. Its beauty extends inside, and this discreetly French establishment provides a menu that is clearly the subject of much care and attention.We opted for the popular fi ve-course weekly tasting menu, which features dishes from the à la carte menu and includes a glass of Champagne, all for the excellent value of £30. We were treated to a delicious roast chestnut soup which was sweet, savoury and delicate all at once, followed by sautéed scallops with pea purée, pancetta and baby onions. The dish was exceptional and we could easily have indulged in fi ve courses of scallops alone. On refl ection, that wouldn’t have been such a great idea as we might have missed out on the velvety smooth roast rump of lamb, accompanied by fi nely chopped ratatouille and outstanding rosemary gnocchi. I succumbed to the cheese selection – in this case the softest Brie with a caramelised apple crust. My partner opted for the light frangipane, which was accompanied by a palate-cleansing shot of frozen vodka and lemon sorbet. Easily accessed from the A1 yet

tucked away from the busy road, The Waggoners offers gourmet food in a relaxed atmosphere with fabulous service. Try it – you can always walk off your meal afterwards.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-6pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9pm; Sun noon-2.45pm

The Waggoners Location Brickwall Close, Ayot Green, Nr. Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL6 9AA t: 0843 153 0517 w: www.thewaggoners.co.uk e: [email protected]

French

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MK

WH

SB

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Brasserie Blanc’s aim has always been to offer a relaxed atmosphere where family, friends and colleagues can enjoy beautifully cooked dishes inspired by Raymond Blanc’s childhood in France. The Milton Keynes brasserie is an open, airy space conveniently located for business lunches and shoppers alike. It is also a popular venue for pre-theatre dining. The Beaconsfi eld restaurant is simply stunning, with a high atrium ceiling in the rear and aged, lime-washed beams over the busy breakfast area. In Berkhamsted, Brasserie Blanc’s home is a special Georgian building with a hidden courtyard to the rear, while the St Albans restaurant is light, bright and friendly – perfect for informal dining and special occasions alike. Whichever brasserie you visit, you will be guaranteed a warm welcome from a friendly professional team.

The à la carte menu changes with the seasons and features dishes such as pan-fried morteau sausage, cheese souffl é and roasted pork belly with crackling and poached crab apples. Mouth-watering desserts like Mont Blanc and Normandy apple tart are the perfect way to round off your meal.

There is also the excellent value menu prix fi xe with two courses for just £11.95 until 6.30pm from Monday to Saturday (£14.45 after 6.30pm from Sunday to Thursday).

Kids are also made welcome with the Henri le Worm two-course menu for £5.95 including drink, half-sized portions from the main menu for older children, and for very little ones, free carrot purée or a mini portion of macaroni cheese.

French Brasserie Blanc w: www.brasserieblanc.com


Location Chelsea House, 301 Avebury Boulevard, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 2GA t: 0844 683 5413 Open: Mon-Sat noon-2.45pm, 5.30pm-9.45pm; Sun 10am-9pm (shop open all day) Location 41 London End, Beaconsfi eld, Buckinghamshire, HP9 2HW t: 0843 153 0518 Open: Mon-Fri 8.30am-10pm; Sat 8.30am-11pm; Sun noon-9pm Location 262 High Street, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire, HP4 1AQ t: 0843 155 0804 Open: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm Location 1-3 Verulam Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4DA t: 0843 155 0782 Open: Mon-Fri noon-10pm; Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-9pm

£20to

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CB

Olivier’s is an outstanding restaurant, serving wonderful food in a luxurious setting. The menus are reasonably priced, but with such an exceptional location and real fi ve-star service, satisfaction is guaranteed whether visiting for a light lunch or a special occasion. We celebrated our anniversary here and treated ourselves to an outstanding meal. I had the scallop starter with crab cannelloni and crispy squid, while my husband opted for the tian of beetroot and goat’s cheese. Both dishes were stunningly presented, perfectly seasoned and a pleasure to eat, making clear the chef’s culinary talent. For mains, my husband chose the loin of venison, served with a sweet and fruity raspberry and chocolate sauce – a truly unique and expertly compiled combination of fl avours, making for a pleasant surprise on the palate. I opted for the prime beef steak with peppercorn sauce and garlic mushrooms, which proved sumptuous, fi lling and very delicious. Both dishes were bursting with fl avour. Dessert was also exceptional, comprising an assiette of chocolate desserts, and a Black Forest bombe, which proved an amazing experience in itself.During our visit to Olivier’s, we found the staff helpful, friendly and very competent,

particularly when it came to recommending wines to accompany each course. Private rooms are available to hire for small parties or weddings and a variety of menus are available, making this a perfect choice for any occasion. This is one of Woburn’s must-visit venues and a gem you’ll be delighted to discover.

Olivier’s Location The Woburn Hotel, 1 George Street, Woburn, Bedfordshire, MK17 9PX t: 0843 153 0519 w: www.thewoburnhotel.co.uk e: [email protected]

British & French



Olivier’s Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm The Drawing Room Food Served: Mon-Sun 10am-noon (brunch), noon-10pm (snacks and light lunches)

£12to

£18

NH

The Letchworth Station waiting room has been transformed into La Concha, a little bit of gastronomic heaven offering an authentic taste of Spain. This is the ideal spot to relax with friends over a glass of wine and delicious tapas. The inventive specials menu changes regularly and the main menu changes every six months to take advantage of the best seasonal produce available, meaning even regulars – of which there are many – will always fi nd a new dish to try. Tapas classics vie for attention with innovative new plates, resulting in a varied menu with plenty for the traditionalist and the more adventurous diner alike. We began with pan Catalan, toast rubbed with olive oil, rock salt, tomato and garlic, and pitta with homemade tzatziki and hummus. Having diffi culty picking from the wide selection, we asked the chef to choose our main courses, and he duly served up an exquisite assortment: paella, giant gambas pil-pil (king prawns chargrilled with garlic, butter and chilli), belly pork with apple purée and morcilla, beef Carpaccio with mushrooms and truffl e aioli, and

sizzling baked cod and chorizo with white bean velouté. We were equally stumped when it came to deciding on dessert – would it be traditional sticky toffee pudding, or Baileys ice cream? In the end we plumped for blueberry cheesecake with a delectable homemade honeycomb topping. We’ll be back to sip a cocktail in the garden on a warm summer’s day, or a mulled wine cocktail or hot toddy inside on chilly winter evenings.

Open: Tues-Sat 11am-11pm Food Served: Tues-Sat 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm

La Concha Location Letchworth Garden City Railway Station, Station Place, Letchworth Garden City, Hertfordshire, SG6 3AN t: 0844 683 8954 w: www.laconchaletchworth.co.uk e: [email protected]

Tapas

£10to

£14

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£25to

£49

SH

The Green Kitchen opened in autumn 2014 and is the only 100-per-cent vegetarian café in St Albans. It serves freshly cooked food to order, including falafel, homemade hummus, seasonal soups, pasta and salads, and an all-day veggie breakfast which has proved very popular. Fresh coffee, speciality teas, shakes, smoothies and freshly juiced fruits and vegetables can also be found in The Green Kitchen. There are special dishes specifi cally for children and the café has four highchairs, colouring activities and puzzles to help while away the minutes until food arrives. Cakes and sweet things are always available, none of which contain eggs or dairy. Happy to cater for gluten-free diets, The Green Kitchen also often has a special raw dessert. Just call and discuss particular dietary requirements ahead of your visit and the café will happily cater for you. The Green Kitchen prides itself on being environmentally friendly and a willingness to please every customer, providing a mix of healthy and indulgent treats.

Fusing the unlikely bedfellows of internationally focused, high-end luxury cuisine and the rather casual, sociable nature of buffet-style dining, The Glasshouse at Hertfordshire’s premier spa, hotel and dining venue, The Grove, offers a dining experience that delivers endless possibilities. Its billing as the ‘international theatre of cooking’ is spot on. You can sample rich Spanish tapas nibbles, fresh seafood and sushi and punchy Asian dishes, which are freshly prepared, sizzled and cooked live in front of you by a team of exceptional chefs. Place yourself fi rmly in the driving seat of your dining experience by creating a bespoke menu of cuisine combinations, in the quantities you desire, all whilst taking in the sumptuous, contemporary and edgy surroundings. In the summer, dine al fresco on one of the lovely terraces. This fantastic restaurant takes the buffet experience and turns it on its head.

Open: Mon & Tues 9am-4pm; Thurs & Fri 9am-4pm; Sat 10am-4pm; Sun 11am-3pm (please call ahead)

Food Served: Mon-Thurs 7am-10am, 12.30pm-2pm, 7pm-9pm; Fri 7am-10am, 12.30pm-2pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sat 7.30am-10.30am, 12.30pm-2pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sun 7.30am-10.30am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm

The Glasshouse Location The Grove, Chandler’s Cross, Hertfordshire, WD3 4TG t: 0843 153 0521 w: www.thegrove.co.uk e: [email protected]

International

The Green Kitchen Location: 419-421 Hatfi eld Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0XP t: 0843 153 0523 w: www.the-green-kitchen.co.uk e: [email protected]

Vegetarian



£18to

£33

NHNatalie and Nigel have a simple ethos at their quintessentially English pub – to serve simple British classics well. I’m happy to report that they more than deliver. Before tucking in, we relaxed in the magnifi cent conservatory-style extension, but noted the beautiful gardens for return summer visits. The homemade crab and lobster fi shcake melted in the mouth and the deep-fried Brie oozed gooey goodness and was served with a tart cranberry sauce. Next, we enjoyed mouth-watering rib-eye steak with peppercorn sauce and all the trimmings and traditional steak and kidney pudding accompanied by al dente vegetables. The creme brulée was complemented by beautifully fresh fruit and clotted cream ice cream. The extensive wine list suits every palate and budget. Older patrons should take advantage of the weekly bargain Golden Years menu, and Sunday lunch is incredibly popular, so booking early is advised.

Open: Mon 6pm-11pm; Tues-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-midnight; Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-11pm

The Rising Sun Location 21 Halls Green, Weston, Hertfordshire, SG4 7DR t: 0843 153 0524 w: www.therisingsunhallsgreen.org.uk

Traditional

£20to

£35

EH

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SB

This is a destination pub for ale enthusiasts – at the bar you’ll fi nd a choice of ten real ales, ten well-kept beers and at least seven ciders. The team here also knows a thing or two about great cuisine, and the menu offers a great range of traditional home-cooked favourites, while the specials board features an ever-changing selection of both British and international fare.

‘...a destination pub for ale enthusiasts...’Starters include the classic deep-fried Camembert with plum and apple chutney; a combination of sweet and savoury. Main dishes comprise the likes of meaty Cumberland sausages, sirloin steak and smoked haddock and spring onion fi shcakes. Be sure to treat yourself to dessert – the warm chocolate fudge cake is a favourite. If you’re planning to visit on a Sunday, the pub offers a traditional

Sunday lunch, for which booking is recommended due to its popularity. For those simply wanting a light meal, the pub also offers a range of baguettes and jacket potatoes on their bar menu. Wash it all down with one of the great ales on offer or one of the top-quality wines.

The Royal Standard’s biannual beer festivals are always popular, with over 40 beers on offer to sample, so the website’s event page is well worth keeping an eye on.

The Millstream pub in Hertford is surrounded by locals, who, I’m sure, would prefer to keep this gem to themselves. Peter and Nicky, the husband-and-wife team behind the pub, are committed to ensuring that The Millstream plays a central role in the local community. Last summer, the restaurant’s walled garden hosted a pop-up cinema for local families. The menu showcases some of the best produce from the surrounding area and the brewer is local, too. Having control over the provenance of the ingredients used in the kitchen is important to Peter and Nicky, who pride themselves on a fresh-tasting menu.With a choice of blackboard specials and a seasonally changing menu, The Millstream has something to suit every taste. Knowing that the pub’s seafood comes directly from Billingsgate fi sh market, we ordered the potted brown shrimp and smoked salmon for starters. The freshness and quality of both dishes was outstanding. For the main course we plumped for the beef and Guinness pie,

which was packed full of chunky, tender beef and topped with light, fl aky pastry, and gnocchi with plump cherry tomatoes and peppery rocket. We rounded off the meal with a delightful pear and apple crumble dessert, made to the same high standard as the rest of the meal.Go and discover The Millstream for yourself – you’re guaranteed to be impressed.

Royal Standard Location Wooburn Common Road, Wooburn Common, Nr. High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP10 0JS t: 0844 683 8963 w: www.theroyalstandard.biz e: [email protected]

Traditional

The Millstream Location 88 Port Vale, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 3AF t: 0843 153 0526 w: www.millstreamhertford.co.uk

Traditional


Open: Mon-Sun noon-11pm

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm

£15to

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Set in the beautiful Chess Valley, this characterful pub has welcomed customers since the 17th Century. While period touches abound, experienced landlords Marion and Brian Eccles have brought the venue up to date with their local sourcing policy and exciting menus. Enjoy a pint from a selection of Badger real ales in front of the inglenook fi replace or, in summer, head to the beer garden, complete with children’s play area and bouncy castle. Dishes range from hearty sandwiches to homemade steak and Badger ale pie. The adjoining Old Barn Restaurant, with its own terrace, is the perfect venue for intimate private parties. Visit on a Sunday to enjoy a second-to-none roast and live music. Simply fantastic.

This traditional English pub is situated at the base of the Chiltern Hills in the picturesque village of Aston Clinton, within easy distance of Aylesbury and Tring. Offering everything from lunchtime snacks to hearty main meals, all made, where possible, using local produce, this cosy pub is a lovely place to frequent after exploring the area on foot or by bike. The likes of black pudding bubble and squeak topped with a runny poached egg is certain to tempt, or, if you’re looking for something more substantial, mains such as the Stilton and mushroom burger and lamb’s liver and bacon with mashed potato and onion gravy are well worth a try. A wide drinks selection is available to accompany your food and the large beer garden is a lovely spot for al fresco dining in warmer weather. Whether you’re visiting for a drink or a sit-down meal, you’re sure to leave The Oak feeling well looked after.

Bar Open: Tues-Sat noon-11pm; Sun & Mon noon-9pm Food Served: Mon noon-2.30pm, 6pm-8.30pm; Tues-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sun noon-5pm (last orders)

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

The Oak Location 119 Green End Street, Aston Clinton, Nr. Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 5EU t: 0843 153 0527 w: www.theoakastonclinton.net

Traditional

The Old Barn Restaurant at The Cock Inn Location Church End, Church Lane, Sarratt, Hertfordshire, WD3 6HH t: 0844 683 5384 w: www.cockinn.net e: [email protected]

Traditional



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SBIf you’re in search of a traditional pub with real heart, look no further than The Black Cat in Lye Green, just a short distance from Chesham. This well-loved family-run establishment prides itself on providing friendly service, a well-stocked bar with plenty of ales and top-quality pub fare in a charming setting – think dark-wood panelling, exposed beams and a brick fi replace. When it comes to the food, expect classic British cuisine done well. You can’t go wrong with chef Louis’ legendary steak and Guinness pie or meaty Cumberland sausages with lashings of onion gravy. Another favourite is proper fi sh and chips, with battered cod fi llet, chunky chips and mushy peas. Keep an eye on the ever-changing specials board for something a little different. The Black Cat’s Sunday lunches with all the trimmings are locally famous and, if you’re hoping to tuck in a little earlier in the day, their hearty breakfasts are the perfect way to kick start your day (served Monday to Saturday from 9am to noon).

Open: Mon 9am-2.30pm, 5pm-7pm; Tues-Fri 9am-2.30pm, 5pm-11pm; Sat 9am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm

The Black Cat Location Lycrome Road, Lye Green, Nr. Chesham, Buckinghamshire, HP5 3LF t: 0843 153 0528 w: www.blackcatchesham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

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NCSituated in the heart of rural Buckinghamshire just a few miles north of Aylesbury, this 16th-Century pub is an oasis offering good food, fi ne wine and real ales. The Black Boy at Oving is historically rich, with an interior that retains traditional elements such as low beams and an open fi replace – it is the picture of a traditional English pub, complete with a genuinely warm village welcome. Dishes exemplify traditional pub food, real ales are expertly kept and ingredients are procured from the immediate area.The menu is uncomplicated and tempting, proffering a variety of nibbles, children’s options and ever-changing specials alongside the main à la carte selection. Dishes are simple, but beautifully executed. Don’t, for example, bypass the sausage and mash, which features a trio of locally sourced, individually fl avoured quality sausages sourced from a local butcher, smooth and creamy piped mash, fresh vegetables and an exceptionally rich homemade gravy. For something a little

different, turn your attention to the aforementioned specials board and experience the likes of tender soft-shell crab with prawn dim sum and a sweet chilli sauce. Special mention must also go to the super sweet and decadent Baileys profi terole and toffee cheesecake – crunchy and creamy in all the right places, it is the king of desserts. Idyllically set in Aylesbury Vale with garden views taking in the district, The Black Boy is an exceptional place which celebrates its rich heritage by staying traditional at heart, but offering an occasional nod to the contemporary.

The Bell at Hardwick is the pride and joy of its landlord and the warm welcome received as you open the grand front door to the cosy bar is testament to this. The original 17th-Century building has been restored sympathetically and to a high standard, and was originally two cottages housing a lace-making business.

With its exposed brickwork, oak beams and huge wrought iron fi replace, The Bell is an atmospheric setting for a meal. We took our seats in the middle bar and were immediately impressed with the menu’s focus on homemade pub fare and dishes which utilise the best of seasonal foods. We were informed that most of the regulars bypass the menu altogether in favour of the special Hardwick pie: a pork, chicken, bacon and stuffi ng pie reasonably priced at £9.95, which I can confi rm is well deserving of its excellent reputation. My partner opted

for the guinea fowl with wild mushroom sauce and declared it both succulent and moreish. My personal highlight of the meal was indulging my sweet tooth with the fi g and honey cheesecake, which proved luxurious and well worth the extra calories.

If you visit in the summer, be sure to make the most of the spacious pub garden and courtyard for al fresco dining.

The Black Boy Location Church Lane, Oving, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4HN t: 0843 153 0529 w: www.theblackboyoving.co.uk

Traditional

The Bell at Hardwick Location Lower Road, Hardwick, Nr. Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4DZ t: 0843 153 0531 w: www.thebellathardwick.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional


Open: Tues-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-6pm

Winter Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sat noon-3.30pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-6pm (from October 1st)Summer Open: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-8pm (from June 1st)

XSCAPE MILTON KEYNES

EATASK 0844 683 5493 | www.askrestaurants.comFind luxurious pastas, pizzas, salads and more at this classy Italian restaurant. At ASK you’ll find regular special offers and a great range of celebrity pasta dishes sold in aid of Great Ormond Street Hospital, featuring recipes from celebrity foodies like Greg Wallace and TV favourite Shane Richie.

CHIMICHANGA 0844 683 5504 | www.chimichanga.co.ukChimichanga brings the heart of Mexico to your table. The extensive, authentic menu features a feast of traditional Mexican food, with diverse beers and cocktails to wash it all down with. The atmosphere is buzzing and great for any occasion, allowing you to either relax or party, Mexican style.

HARVESTER 0844 683 5529 | www.harvester.co.ukSensational starters, tasty grills, freshly prepared unlimited salad, tempting desserts... there’s something for everyone at Harvester. You are guaranteed a warm welcome and genuine value for money, whether you pop in for a family meal, a relaxing drink or a celebration with friends.

wAGAMAMA 0843 155 0784 | www.wagamama.comClassic ramen, tantalising teppan and delicious rice dishes – you’ll find them all at wagamama. Inspired by traditional ramen bars, wagamama offers a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Every dish is prepared to order, resulting in authentic, fresh flavours every time.

COAL GRILL & BAR 0843 153 0567 | www.coalgrillandbar.co.ukWarm, inviting and featuring a theatre-style open kitchen, Coal Grill & Bar is a top place to take a break before heading to the Snozone or cinema. Take a seat at the smart bar and have the barman shake you up a cocktail, or enjoy a speciality burger or steak in the restaurant.

LA TASCA 0844 683 5528 | www.latasca.co.ukViva La Tasca! A true taste of Spain in the heart of Milton Keynes. For the most extensive range of tapas this side of Madrid, check out this top restaurant – not only is it family friendly, it’s the perfect place for a romantic candlelit encounter.

NaNdo’s 0844 683 5518 | www.nandos.co.ukThe chicken experi-perience that’s taking the world by storm! Whether it’s a plate of wings, a burger, a pitta or a platter to share you’re after, you’ll find it at Nando’s. Not in the mood for chicken? Check out the Prego steak roll or one of the many great salads.

FraNkie aNd BeNNy’s 0844 683 5531 | www.frankieandbennys.co.ukYou’ll be spoilt for choice at this family-friendly New York Italian-style bar, grill and restaurant. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for light bites or the full monty. And don’t forget to check out their cocktail bar.

PIzzA EXPRESS 0844 683 5501 | www.pizzaexpress.co.ukEvery Pizza Express is uniquely designed, and Xscape’s restaurant is simply stunning. Come for the delicious food and stay for the architecture. Enjoy a gourmet pizza or a salad, or, if you can’t make your mind up, plump for a Leggera – a pizza with the centre removed and replaced with salad.

www.xscape.co.uk

PLAY & SHOP

Xscape Milton Keynes is home to the widest range of restaurants, bars and cafés in the city. There’s something for everyone, from fast food to family restaurants, and sophisticated eateries for that special night out. Xscape is the most unique leisure and retail destination in the UK, housing real indoor snow slopes at Snozone, and the Airkix indoor skydiving experience. There’s also a newly refurbished 16-screen Cineworld cinema, complete with Super Screen and the UK’s first 4DX experience for the ultimate night out at the movies. You’ll certainly get more than just a meal at Xscape.

THE CASINO MK 0843 155 0784 | www.thecasinomk.co.uk

As the UK’s second super casino, The Casino MK is at the forefront of modern gaming, attracting avid gamers and first-timers alike. With more than 20 live gaming tables, 108 slot machines, 76 electronic live gaming terminals, 17 poker tables and four sports betting terminals, there’s plenty here to keep you amused. Expect only the best in customer service too, with friendly casino staff always on hand to ensure you make the most of your gaming time. After you’ve worked up an appetite at the poker tables, head to Clary’s Bar & Grill, where you’ll find everything from light bites to hearty mains – including sizzling steaks and prime beef burgers – all made using quality fresh produce.

Great spots to grab a drink include: MK’s biggest and best nightclub, Wonderland, plus Revolution, the Snobar and The Moon Under Water. For all the details of the great night spots at Xscape visit www.xscape.co.uk.

As well as top restaurants, Xscape is also home to fashion and action sports retail stores such as Quiksilver, Billabong and Extreme Central; not to mention the region’s top night spots.

FANCY A COFFEE?Xscape is home to a great range of cafés and coffee shops, including Xpresso Net internet café, Starbucks and Costa.

PLAY EAT SHOP

Xscape Milton Keynes602 Marlborough GateCentral Milton KeynesMK9 3XS

Check in with us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter @XscapeMK

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NCLong Crendon is a charming, quintessentially British village full of pretty period cottages and is often fi lmed for the popular TV series, Midsomer Murders. It’s also home to The Eight Bells, the village inn originally licensed in 1607 which takes its name from the number of bells in the local church tower. Owners, Paul and Sarah, continue the tradition of providing fantastic food and thirst-quenching ales and wines. Visitors are heartily welcomed, so hang up your cap, pull up a pew and have a look at the extensive menu.Platters, light bites and sandwiches will cure a lunchtime craving, and if you’re up with the lark, kick start the day with a hearty weekend breakfast and a revitalising cup of coffee. Children are well catered for and the pizzas at The Eight Bells are worthy of a mention; these Italian thin-base pizzas are freshly prepared and can be eaten in or taken away. The main menu changes seasonally and is dependent on the freshest ingredients available. A visit might see you starting with soy-cured salmon accompanied by a mooli

salad or seared pigeon breast with pickled walnut and smoked beetroot – mouth-wateringly delicious. The main course might see the likes of a 12-hour-slow-roasted shoulder of lamb in a red wine, chorizo and white bean cassoulet. Or go for the trio of game sausages; venison and red wine, wild boar and pigeon, and pheasant and berries, served with seasonal vegetables, buttered mash and the chef’s rich pan gravy. Make sure you leave room for dessert. Apple pie and custard mille-feuille sound tempting? Or perhaps warm walnut and maple tart with banana ice cream?

The Eight Bells Location 51 High Street, Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9AL t: 0843 155 0489 w: www.8bellspub.com e: [email protected]

Traditional



Open: Mon-Sun noon-11pmFood Served: Mon-Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-4pm

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This charming country pub is nestled in the pretty village of Hertford Heath within easy driving distance of Welwyn, Harlow and Cheshunt. A community pub offering real hospitality, The Goat is somewhere you can truly relax with a tasty tipple and comforting home-cooked food. The building dates back to the 18th Century and boasts a snug and characterful interior, with low wooden beams, exposed brickwork and plenty of nooks to cosy up in. At the bar you’ll discover a selection of real ales, ciders and wines, and the menu is sure to leave you feeling spoiled for choice, offering everything from barbecue ribs and homemade pies to smoked bacon, pea and mushroom risotto. Desserts like Belgian waffl es with chocolate sauce and treacle sponge pudding are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and fi nish your meal with a touch of indulgence. If you’re planning a visit with family, you’ll fi nd an extensive children’s menu, featuring such delights as ham, egg and chips and a Sunday roast option, and a special lunch menu for senior citizens, offering three courses for under £10.Also boasting a lovely outdoor

seating area for spring and summer visits, The Goat is a perfect meeting place come rain or shine.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-11.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 5pm-9pm; Sun noon-5pm

The Goat Location 25 Vicarage Causeway, Hertford Heath, Hertfordshire, SG13 7RT t: 0843 153 0532 w: www.thegoathertfordheath.co.uk e: [email protected]

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SHSituated a mere stone’s throw from the historic Clock Tower, The Boot is one of St Albans’ oldest pubs. The building was erected in approximately 1420 and would have seen the War of the Roses’ Battle of St Albans taking place outside its front door.

‘...pie of the day, a trio of sausages on a bed of creamed mash...’

Serving up dishes such as pie of the day, a trio of sausages on a bed of creamed mash, and a chilli con carne with a reputation of its own, The Boot’s intention is to provide excellent, traditional pub food. Their team of chefs, under the tutelage of Fiona Dulake, work to create homemade dishes on a daily basis utilising a combination of local ingredients and sustainably sourced produce. Puddings are popular at The Boot and the cheeseboard proves the perfect fi nale

to a delicious dinner. They also have an extremely popular Sunday lunch menu, which always results in a full house. The Boot can be found in CAMRA’s Good Beer Guide year after year and they offer eight excellent hand-pulled real ales and three real ciders. If you’re looking to enjoy a delectable meal, or simply want to relax with a drink or two in a real piece of St Albans history, then The Boot is the place for you.

Set in the historic market town of Baldock and dating back to 1680, The Orange Tree is a traditional British pub with a cosy, atmospheric feel. Many of the original features have been exposed and restored to give a delightful olde-worlde feel, and there is a choice of fi ve lovely rooms in which to spend time relaxing, each with a unique character of its own. Licensee Rob Scahill is passionate about real ale, with up to 13 available on hand-pump, including nine ever-changing options from independent breweries, as well as a range of local cider. If you’re looking for a delicious lunch or dinner, The Orange Tree’s menu is also sure to impress, featuring an abundance of local produce, including meat from award-winning butcher, Chapmans of Baldock. Everything is homemade and you’d be hard pressed not to be tempted by the likes of the steak and Abbot Ale pie, fi sherman’s pie and creamy macaroni cheese. Chapmans’ scrumptious sausages also feature and can be enjoyed in various ways, including inside a baguette, with assorted

varieties of mash, with egg and chips, or in a huge Yorkshire pudding with proper meat gravy. If you’d rather something a little lighter, a fantastic range of vegetarian and gluten-free options are also available.There’s also a large beer garden, children’s play area and pétanque piste, and, with a spacious club room seating over 70 guests, this is a perfect venue for private parties and meetings, too. The Orange Tree is a must for real ale lovers and foodies alike.

The Boot Location 4 Market Place, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 5DG t: 01727 857533 w: www.thebootstalbans.com e: [email protected]

Traditional

The Orange Tree Location Norton Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire, SG7 5AW t: 0844 683 5367 w: www.theorangetreebaldock.com e: [email protected]

Traditional


Open: Mon-Sun noon-midnightFood Served: Mon-Sun noon-4pm

Open: Mon-Weds noon-2.30pm, 4.30pm-11pm; Thurs-Sat noon-midnight;Sun noon-11pm (open all day in summer)Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-6pm

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Nothing beats an amazing roast dinner on a Sunday, and The Globe in Codicote can defi nitely deliver. We had heard that it had become something of a speciality at this cosy village pub, and after a visit of our own, we concur that this reputation is deserved. Despite being recently renovated, this 19th-Century pub has retained its homely and welcoming character, but boasts a clean and modern touch. A wide choice of meats adorns the roast menu, which, served with all the trimmings, is exceptional value at £7.95. A visit on any other day of the week will no doubt be equally impressive. Classic pub favourites including sausages and mash and beer-battered fi sh and chips sit proudly alongside an ever-changing specials board, while Thai cuisine is the fare on offer on Friday and Saturday evenings. More information about events can be found on their Facebook page.

If you like a real pub that offers home-cooked food, The Plough at Sleapshyde is the place for you. Located just off the A414, the A1M, M1 and M25, it is easily accessible and a real treat for all who discover its charms. This traditional thatched pub serves home-cooked food from its main menu, but also offers daily specials and a children’s selection. I would recommend the locally renowned steak and ale pie, which features tender pieces of steak in shortcrust pastry served with chips or potatoes and fresh vegetables – those who’ve tried it keep coming back for more. The Plough also caters for private events and celebrations, from birthdays to wakes and everything in between, offering an extensive range of hot and cold buffet options and fl exible dinner menus.

Open: Mon noon-10pm; Tues-Thurs 9am-11pm; Fri 9am-midnight; Sat 10am-midnight; Sun 10am-10pm

Food Served: Mon & Tues noon-2pm; Weds-Fri noon-2pm, 6.30pm-9pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6.30pm-9pm; Sun noon-3pm

The Plough Location Sleapshyde, Smallford, Nr. St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 0SE t: 0843 153 0534 w: www.theploughstalbans.com e: [email protected]

Traditional

The Globe Location 115 High Street, Codicote, Hertfordshire, SG4 8UA t: 0843 153 0536 e: [email protected]

Traditional



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SHThe White Hart Tap is hugely popular with connoisseurs of traditional pub food and quality real ale. The menu provides for all palates and dietary requirements, with a dedicated vegetarian section as well as delectable wares such as fresh fi sh, homemade burgers and local sausages. The fi sh and chip night on Friday evening is highly popular, as is the Sunday roast – both of which require booking in advance. The pub is not solely known for its mouth-watering food, as there’s also a well-stocked bar, offering seven cask beers which include rotating beers from local breweries and beyond, and in 2015 the pub will be brewing its own beer. In the warmer months visitors can take advantage of the ample outdoor seating and regular beer and food festivals, whilst a wood-burning fi re provides the best place to curl up with a single malt whisky from the pub’s wide selection, and the resident cat, Paddy, in the winter.

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun noon-11pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat noon-8pm; Sun 1pm-4pm

White Hart Tap Location 4 Keyfi eld Terrace, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1QJ t: 0843 153 0537 w: www.whiteharttap.co.uk e: [email protected]

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Enjoying relatively new ownership, The White Lion is fast on its way to becoming a local favourite. The pub combines palatable food, an amiable atmosphere and an all-encompassing welcome to create an eatery which is to be sought out. The menu is moderately priced, and offers and deals are a regular feature. Prepared on site, most dishes change regularly to suit the season, whilst a selection of classic favourites is continuously available. Staple menu items include the black pudding and bacon starter enhanced by dressed leaves, a poached hen’s egg and Parmesan shavings, and mains such as haddock fi llet with a homemade Guinness batter, which is married with fat chips, tartare sauce and pea purée. Beloved traditional desserts complete the menu – sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownies are all present. The White Lion is also renowned for its roast dinner, which is available on Sundays from noon until 6pm. To

accompany each meal, there are many beverages to choose from, including a range of real ales and real ciders available from the bar. In the evenings The White Lion is transformed into a hub of activity, with entertainment and live music on different nights of the week, and local groups and teams using the pub as their base.

Part of the Hall & Woodhouse brewery family, set in wonderfully rural surroundings and local to those at Pinewood Studios, this contemporary pub-restaurant boasts stunning interior design and an equally appealing menu.With a seasonal selection of dishes and a changeable specials board, choosing what to order was challenging for all the right reasons. My guest and I started with a hot sharing platter, which we enjoyed greatly. The crispy chicken wings, chilli cheese chips and battered onion rings were all delightful, however the hand-crumbed mushrooms and house slaw were worth the trip alone – extremely moreish. My main dish of sirloin was cooked to my liking – almost blue and served with a classic Béarnaise sauce to provide a creamy richness to complement the steak. I had to refrain from reaching over and entirely devouring my guest’s heritage steak and ale pie, made with the brewery’s very own, award-

winning, Tanglefoot beer. Starting to feel full, my guest and I decided to sample The Black Horse’s legendary mini puds with a choice of six, ranging from lemon meringue Mess to mulled winter fruit crumble, to pick from. The service we received was among the very best, in keeping with the unpretentious yet stylish surroundings: warm and homely but still refreshingly modern.

The White Lion Location 91 Sopwell Lane, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 1RN t: 0843 153 0538 w: www.thewhitelionstalbans.com e: [email protected]

Traditional

The Black Horse Location 95 Slough Road, Iver Heath, Buckinghamshire, SL0 0DH t: 0844 683 8956 w: www.theblackhorseiverheath.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional


Open: Sun-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9pm; Sat noon-8pm; Sun noon-6pm

Open: Mon-Sat 11.30am-11pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-9pm



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CBFor exceptional Thai food, look no further than Bangkok Lounge, the winner of St Albans District Chamber of Commerce’s Best Restaurant Award. Located in Harpenden and Shefford, these exceptional restaurants offer outstanding service and a huge range of dishes at any time of the day.We visited the elegantly furnished restaurant on Harpenden High Street and were warmly greeted by proprietor Motin Miah. Inside there’s a refi ned ambience that’s utterly relaxing; due in part to Motin’s evident love for his profession. Food and drink streamed to our table; our every wish was granted so unobtrusively we couldn’t fail to be impressed. An extensive menu offers a wealth of choice, with set menus to suit all palates and budgets. Equally delightful is the wine list, featuring everything from house wines by the glass to special-occasion wines.Bangkok Lounge’s award-winning chefs use the freshest ingredients, blending them with extraordinary subtlety to create a fusion of fl avour in every mouthful. We began with steamed mussels with Thai herbs in a steaming broth, containing dozens of contrasting fl avours but not overwhelmed by one. Deep-fried king prawns with sweet chilli sauce provided the perfect precursor to the steamed whole sea bass with chilli sauce in a fresh lemon and lime dressing – a skilful blend of fl avours. The jungle curry was a masterpiece, accompanied by fragrant bowls of jasmine rice and crisp vegetables in garlic and soy sauce, served with a mountain of sizzling tempura vegetables.In addition to the à la carte menu, Motin’s lunch menu (from only £6.95) attracts daytime diners, and the addition of an early-bird menu in the Shefford restaurant (from £12 for two courses between 5.30pm and 6.45pm) offers exceptional quality and unbelievable value. Takeaways are also available for collection, with a generous 15-per-cent discount offered on orders over £18. Reading the many testimonials from satisfi ed customers on their website, it’s no surprise to fi nd Bangkok Lounge is one of the most popular Thai restaurants in the area. But don’t just take my word for it, head to Harpenden or Shefford and discover this Thai temptress for yourself. Visit the website or keep up to date via their Facebook page (www.facebook.com/bangkoklounge).

Thai Bangkok Lounge Location 80 High Street, Harpenden, Hertfordshire, AL5 2SP t: 0844 683 5457 Location 2 Bedford Road, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5DJ t: 0844 683 9024 w: www.bangkoklounge.com e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Sun noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm

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CBThe centre of Ampthill is awash with period buildings. On Dunstable Street, there’s a Grade II listed building that may be of particular interest. During the 17th Century, this medieval structure was altered to create the pretty white-washed restaurant you see today. Although the architecture is very English, the cuisine served inside is most certainly of Indian origin.

Ampthill Tandoori serves a combination of traditional and modern dishes beneath its exposed beams. Innovative yet authentic, the food is all freshly prepared using only the best ingredients, like meat from the local, family-run butchers. After crunching your way though a perfect pakora, perhaps look to the house specialities selection for inspiration. I loved the chicken mohon wala owing to its creamy blend of coconut, almonds and cheese. All the reliable favourites can be found on the menu too, with everyone from dansak fans to dupiaza lovers catered for.

Gourmet nights are held every Sunday and Wednesday evening, proving that good food doesn’t have to cost the earth – a whole meal will set you back just £10.95. Takeaways over £15 carry a 20-per-cent discount when collected, and deliveries are free on orders over £12 within four miles of the restaurant.

Diners with special dietary requirements can be accommodated – indeed, nothing is too much trouble for Ampthill Tandoori’s friendly brigade.

Open: Sun-Thurs 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 5.30pm-11.30pm

If you’re searching for top-quality Indian cuisine, look no further than Chutney Moe’s. With its fresh interior – think leather seats, sleek wooden fl oors and splashes of bright green – the place has a lovely contemporary feel. This little gem is the perfect spot in which to enjoy traditional Bengali cooking with a modern twist.

The skilled kitchen team uses the fi nest ingredients in the creation of the authentic dishes that adorn the menu. Diners will also be pleased to hear that everything is freshly prepared to order. To start, tuck into beautifully crisp samosas or deep-fried lightly peppered prawns wrapped in rice paper. If you’re feeling indecisive, plump for Chutney Moe’s platter – a combination of lamb and chicken tikka, onion bhajis, seekh kebabs and samosas. On to the mains. The more traditional curries are executed to the highest of standards – the korma, rogan, vindaloo and madras options are fi ne examples of classic Indian cooking. The chef’s specials are also worth a try, particularly the hot-and-spicy chicken or lamb naga chilli massala,

simmered in a fi ery Bangladeshi naga chilli paste and a blend of herbs, or the succulent Bombay duck cooked with egg, tomatoes and potatoes. The piping-hot naans are the perfect accompaniment.

Promising friendly service, a laid-back setting and excellent food, this should be your curry house of choice if you’re in the area.

Ampthill Tandoori Location 119 Dunstable Street, Ampthill, Bedfordshire, MK45 2NG t: 0843 153 0539 w: www.ampthilltandoori.co.uk

Indian

Chutney Moe’s Location 284 High Street, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN8 7EA t: 0843 153 0541 w: www.chutneymoes.co.uk

Indian


Open: Mon-Thurs 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 5.30pm-11.30pm; Sun 3pm-10.30pm



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Cheshunt Tandoori was opened in 1986 – the same year its present owner, Koyes, was born. Four years ago, the restaurant was handed over from his father, a successful restaurateur for 50 years, to Koyes, who set about imbuing the restaurant with his own personal touch. With a steady supply of diners and takeaway orders keeping the chefs busy, there’s no doubt that the local community support the refreshed Cheshunt Tandoori just as much as they did before.

‘...greeted by friendly, attentive staff ...’ The venue boasts a large glass frontage, a cosy 34-seat interior and soft light glowing from the ceiling. Upon entry, we were greeted by friendly, attentive staff and Koyes himself.

The menu is extensive, catering for customers who seek traditional Indian food as well as those with more contemporary tastes. Dishes can be tailored to each individual’s preference; mains include a variety of options, such as prawns, king prawns, vegetables, chicken, lamb or fi sh, in addition to diners also being in control of how spicy they want their curry. For starters, I ordered the chicken momo: shredded spicy chicken wrapped in an Indian bread. Sandra, my dining partner, went for the chilli paneer: Indian cheese glazed in a chilli sauce, which lived up to its description on the menu as a ‘spicy-yummy’ dish. For our mains, we both chose speciality dishes. I picked the vegetable Lizzy, which was coated in a rich gravy of Kashmiri herbs and chickpeas. Sandra selected the chicken tikka delight – a creamy dish with massala spices and a splash of red wine. I had never come across this before in a curry but it worked so well. To accompany the main course we had pilau rice, aloo gobi and a light and fl uffy naan bread. The meal was beautifully presented and tasted superb. The herbs and spices were carefully balanced.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Koyes has created a menu offering so much more than many Indian restaurants, which is no doubt why Cheshunt Tandoori has so many fans – including us.

Indian Cheshunt Tandoori Location 187 Windmill Lane, Cheshunt, Hertfordshire, EN8 9AW t: 0843 153 0542 w: www.cheshunttandoori.com e: [email protected]

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-2pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-2pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm

£15to

£25

EHIn the village of High Wych, just outside of Sawbridgeworth, the Mojid family have created Chandini, a visit to which is always a memorable experience. During the last two years Jay has converted a quirky, beamed Grade II listed building into a contemporary and comfortable dining space, complete with wood-burning stove. Charming and helpful staff add a personal touch without being intrusive.

‘...always a memorable experience...’ The reasonably priced menu includes a variety of traditional dishes and features signature dishes created by chef Abdul Mojid, who in 2013 received accolades from the British Curry Awards and was named Chef of the Year. His signature creations include Jolpai duck (cooked in a spicy, sour sauce infused with olives and cherry tomatoes), Smiths Special (a barbecued garlicky dish) and Bengali salmon (a creamy coconut sauce with a hint of fennel and mustard).

‘...a contemporary and comfortable dining space...’After much deliberation – whilst enjoying crisp, light poppadoms – my companion and I chose to start with butterfl y king prawn. The ample portion would have made a meal in itself, but nonetheless we savoured every sweet, juicy morsel. This was followed by sylhetti raan (lamb shank), slow cooked in rich spices until tender then fl avoured with lime leaf and yoghurt. My companion chose the sea bass, which was accompanied by an appetising white wine and coconut milk sauce to complement the delicate fl avour of the fi sh. Side orders of onion and caulifl ower bhajis, naan breads and pilau rice completed our main-course feast. The restaurant offers a range of desserts to follow, for those with a sweet tooth. The restaurant also offers a popular takeaway service and the option to order online, as well as free membership to its Gold Club, offering discounts to regular customers. On Sundays there is an extremely good value buffet.

The Chandini menu states that their aim is ‘to take your tastebuds to seventh heaven’. In this they truly succeed. Visit soon and enjoy a modern, sophisticated Indian meal in delightful surroundings.

IndianChandini Location High Wych, Nr. Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire, CM21 0HY t: 0843 153 0546 w: www.chandinirestaurant.co.uk


Open: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-midnight; Sun noon-10pm



£15to

£25

CBOffering a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere in which to enjoy Asian cuisine, Clifton Cuisine has provided its valued patrons with nothing but the best, year after year. There’s an innovative and fresh variety of dishes, so there will always be a meal to tempt even the most hard to please diner.

‘...a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere in which to enjoy Asian cuisine...’

If you are looking for something different – the authentic with a touch of the contemporary perhaps – achieved through use of ingredients sourced from across the globe, in addition to a focus on high quality, then look no further than this restaurant. The experienced chefs pride themselves on preparing dishes that are made as authentically and naturally as possible, foregoing artifi cial colourings in favour of natural herbs and spices. They have perfected a range of exotic pickles and chutneys, which are currently available exclusively to those who make a trip to the restaurant. Popular dishes include lamb biryani – baked rice layered with tender lamb in a creamy yet spicy sauce – and succulent tandoori king prawns. To enable anyone and everyone to visit, Clifton Cuisine can accommodate those with allergies and particular taste preferences. To complement the mouth-watering menu, the restaurant also offers a variety of wines from around the world.

‘...something a little diff erent...’Corporate function bookings and parties, including wedding receptions – both on the premises and at a chosen venue, inclusive of outside bars – can be accommodated in style. Clifton Cuisine is also renowned for its tribute nights, with every event offering a night of entertainment and a set meal at a very affordable price.

The forward-thinking team behind this gem provide fantastic service, as well as welcoming comments and suggestions from diners. For something a little different, I wholeheartedly suggest you try this outstanding restaurant.

Indian Clifton Indian Cuisine Location 37-39 Broad Street, Clifton, Bedfordshire, SG17 5RL t: 0844 683 9029 w: www.cliftoncuisine.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun noon-10pm

£18to

£20

CB

MK

Take the rich, intense fl avours and delicate spices of India and combine them with the small plates and sociability of tapas, and you get the brand-new innovation in fusion dining at Papa J’s. Fusing the nation’s love of Indian cuisine with a fun and casual way of dining, Papa J’s combines a deep respect and understanding of traditional Indian fl avours with a dining style that is perfect for modern life. The recent opening of their second site in Milton Keynes’ Oxley Park follows over ten years of success in a fi rst restaurant in Luton, as owners, the Bhikha family, carry forward their solid reputation for freshly prepared, delicious provincial Indian dishes.

The cultural infl uences drawn upon by Papa J’s kitchen team stem from all corners of India, resulting in a broad menu which is packed with fl avour and varying styles of cuisine. From the kebabs of the north to the spicy, tangy fl avours of the south, there’s something for everyone. Papa J’s menu is devised to allow you to explore a wide breadth of fl avours in small portions, meaning a real treat for the culinary adventurer.

With the menu spanning tapas platters, wings, lamb, chicken, seafood and vegetarian tapas, Papa J’s also offers traditional signature dishes and main courses. We pulled on the expertise of our waiter heavily during our visit in order to sample a real spectrum of fl avours available at Papa J’s and embraced the tapas style.

Kicking things off was the chatpata wings – understood to be the venue’s number one top seller featuring wings double prepped in a secret sauce. A mutton seekh kebab of delicately fragranced and spiced skewered mince is also known to be a favourite with the regulars. I can highly recommend the chilli paneer – cubes of paneer in a special tangy, spicy sauce that boasted real warmth and depth of fl avour – and the chilli garlic mogo, a traditional Indian root vegetable fried and served in a chilli and garlic tangy sauce, was defi nitely something new for our tastebuds. Even if in the unthinkable instance you’re not a pudding person, you simply must try the homemade, creamy and decadent ice cream – we sampled delicious mango, pistachio and coconut gelato.

Papa J’s knows its roots, traditions and culture and delivers all to the modern diner with creative fl air and imagination. Visit Papa J’s expecting the unexpected.

IndianPapa J’s Location 20 Redgrave Drive, Oxley Park, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK4 4TB t: 01908 503000 Location 41-43 Wellington Street, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2QH t: 01582 725111 w: www.papajs.co.uk


Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sat noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sun noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm

£16to

£22

CBWinners of a local curry award, which named it Shefford’s No.1 Indian Restaurant, Dalchini Spice is found in the centre of the pretty Bedfordshire town of Shefford. The newly refurnished interior of Dalchini – which has three sister restaurants in the local area – has been stylishly designed, with comfortable leather banquette seating, fl ock wallpaper and linen-clad tables. The setting makes you feel at home from the outset, and the food on offer will make you want to stick around. Dalchini means cinnamon, so unsurprisingly the cuisine centres around the delicate blending of fi ne spices and other specialist ingredients. Excellence and value for money go hand in hand here. The Dalchini Spice Banquet Nights won’t break the bank – for only £10.95 they offer a feast fi t for a king. The main à la carte will have you spoilt for choice, containing such deliciousness as chicken momo, which sees tender chicken pieces cooked in butter with spring onions and coriander, and specialities like lamb Malaya, the sauce for which includes the

sweetness of lychee and mild spices. Seafood options are many, ranging from prawn pathia, a slightly sweet but hot dish, to classics like salmon bhuna. A ten-per-cent discount is available on collected takeaways and delivery is free within a fi ve-mile radius.As well as being a superb Indian restaurant, Dalchini has a deserved reputation for specialising in party planning, whether the event is a hen night, stag do, anniversary or birthday. One call to the friendly team is all it takes to get the ball rolling.

Open: Mon-Sun 5.30pm-midnight

Dalchini Spice Location 3 Southbridge Street, Shefford, Bedfordshire, SG17 5DB t: 0843 153 0547 w: www.dalchinispice.co.uk

Indian



£16to

£26

BeFormerly a traditional public house known as The Magpie, this pretty stone building in the heart of Harrold has undergone something of a metamorphosis. Cross the threshold and the period qualities of the facade dissolve to reveal, rather unexpectedly, a contemporary dining room, complete with beautifully upholstered furnishings and white tablecloths. Spices of Paradise is a destination restaurant for those from the surrounding area who love authentic Indian and Bangladeshi dishes. The menu is extensive and varied, presenting a selection of memorable dishes cooked using the best ingredients, by only those with enough experience and know-how to do this type of cuisine justice. Take, for example, a meal that starts with a lamb chop, perhaps coupled with a crisp onion bhajee, followed by a jaffrani of duck, which sees the meat marinated then grilled in a medley of Bangladeshi herbs and spices in a medium sauce, and you begin to understand why this restaurant is so popular. Sides to accompany such a feast might include fruity rice, aloo gobi and a fl oury chapatti. For the indecisive,

there are set menu options, as well as an eat-as-much-as-you-like Sunday buffet (£9.95 for adults and £5.95 for children). Wednesdays are banquet days, when £11.95 will purchase you a starter, main, side and either rice or a naan from the à la carte. Catering for everything from parties to intimate meals for two, Spices of Paradise is a fi ne choice, whether you consider yourself a curry novice or a bit of a connoisseur.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sun noon-5pm, 6pm-10.45pm

Spices of Paradise Location 54 High Street, Harrold, Bedfordshire, MK43 7DA t: 0843 153 0548 w: www.spicesofparadise.co.uk

Indian

£16to

£26

CB

£16to

£28

CBHaving won awards for its delivery of only the fi nest, thoroughly authentic Indian cuisine, Lounge India is a great choice for a night of total dining escapism. Part of a successful group of restaurants dotted throughout Bedfordshire, this exotic eatery is a credit to its sister establishments. A contemporary restaurant that seats 80 diners in comfort, Lounge India’s dining room has been split into two areas to allow for party dining and celebrations to be hosted in private. Such occasions can be planned on a bespoke basis, ensuring your overall experience is exactly as you would wish it to be. Skilled chefs with an exceptionally deep well of experience from which to draw run a tight ship in the kitchen and utilise a plethora of fresh ingredients, meaning every dish that makes it to one of the beautifully laid tables is loaded with fl avour and utterly delicious.So what’s on the menu? The chef’s special patila kushboo, which features tender chicken or lamb that has been marinated and half cooked in the tandoor, before being expertly fl avoured with aromatic herbs and spices and fruits to create a hot and

sour sauce, comes recommended. There are, of course, all of the old favourites present and expertly cooked, ranging from dupiaza and rogan josh, to vindaloo for fans of the fi ery. Every Sunday from 12.30pm until 11pm, diners are invited to join Lounge India for a banquet. For just £11.95 per person, diners can enjoy a starter, main, side and rice or naan, representing excellent value for money. Takeaways are offered with a ten-per-cent discount when collected, while delivery within fi ve miles of the restaurant is free if you just can’t bear to leave the house. All in all, Lounge India offers a superb selection of dining options, all of which will wow in equal measure.

To step into the Indian Lodge in Flitwick is to forget the stresses of your day, whatever they may be, and let a dedicated team take care of you. The interior of this one-time pub is intimate, contemporary and comfortable. The lighting design in blues and purples is calming and serene, setting the scene for an Indian dining adventure you’ll remember for all the right reasons.Here, you place yourself in the capable hands of a passionate chef with over 25 years’ experience. As a result of such expertise, the menu is exceedingly varied and exciting, making use of recipes which have been handed down through generations, as well as featuring innovative dishes which are thoroughly modern in style. The result is an authentic taste of the Subcontinent, exemplifi ed in Bangladeshi fi sh specialities like the maas dil kush, which sees tender morsels of fi sh marinated in onions, tomatoes and capsicum, cooked with carefully blended spices and served in an aromatic sauce, and the Indian Lodge Special of juicy barbecued chicken, lamb and king prawns enhanced

by an exotic sauce. The selection of garlic-themed dishes deserves exploration, as do the other exotic Bangladeshi specialities and list of duck dishes. Wednesday night is banquet night, when an indulgent feast will set you back just £10.95 per person – what a bargain. A takeaway and delivery service – available within a fi ve-mile radius – is worth taking advantage of for a decadent night in, while special celebration nights out can be accommodated in style.

Lounge India Location 171 Bedford Road, Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire, MK43 0LE t: 0843 153 0549 w: www.loungeindia.co.uk

Indian

Indian Lodge Location 15 High Street, Flitwick, Bedfordshire, MK45 1DU t: 0843 153 0561 w: www.indianlodge.co.uk

Indian


Open: Mon-Sat 5.30pm-11pm; Sun 12.30pm-11pm

Open: Mon-Thurs 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 5.30pm-11.30pm; Sun noon-5pm (buffet), 6pm-11pm

£10to

£15

CB

£14to

£18

CB

With around 200 authentic Indian dishes to pick from, visitors to Indian Ocean really are spoilt for choice. With such a broad range of delicious options to choose from, we found deciding what to have a bit of a dilemma, although a perfect excuse for repeat visits. In the end we settled on the succulent chicken chat puri and crispy onion bhajees to start, both of which were beautifully presented and perfectly spiced. Our mains were equally delicious, with the chicken tikka dilbhahar being of particular note. Comprising tender chicken breast cooked in a creamy, nutty and mildly spiced sauce, it was a culinary triumph and just one example of the delightful specials on offer. With an array of vegetable side dishes, fl avoured rice and fresh naan breads also available, satisfaction is guaranteed. Booking is highly recommended for this popular Indian eatery in Lower Stondon.

From the moment you step through the door, it’s immediately evident why The Barrels has garnered a following of regular patrons, from both the Luton area and further afi eld. This eatery is something special: a traditional British pub serving Indian cuisine. Different styles of dish are available, depending on whether you’d rather enjoy a sit-down dinner, or simply some tasty snacks to nibble whilst sampling from the pub’s wealth of beers. The food menu is short but sweet, with each dish carefully selected and promising to be expertly prepared. Specialising in grilled dishes, The Barrels’ main menu features numerous sizzler dishes, from paneer tikka and lamb masala chops, to mixed grills which are ideal for sharing. Those simply wishing for a little bite can choose from the likes of dhokla and onion pakoras.

Open: Sun-Thurs 5pm-11.30pm; Fri & Sat 5pm-midnight

Open: Mon-Fri 3pm-11pm; Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

The Barrels Location Cannon Lane, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU2 8BJ t: 0843 153 0562 w: www.thebarrels-luton.co.uk e: [email protected]

Indian

Indian Ocean Location 27 Fakeswell Lane, Lower Stondon, Nr. Henlow, Bedfordshire, SG16 6JY t: 0843 155 0506

Indian



£15to

£25

WHFor something a little bit different, try The Cochin in Hemel Hempstead. The Cochin is a haven of home cooking from the Kerala region of southern India, which is famous for its intense, exotic fl avours and spices. The menu here has been devised using recipes passed down from generation to generation, so diners can expect to be treated to authentic dishes. You might like to try the traditional kuttanadan duck roast (made with succulent slices of duck cooked in a thick gravy), which is best enjoyed with kallappam (rice pancakes), or perhaps the signature Cochin lamb curry, cooked with tender lamb and a rich tomato-based sauce with a blend of spices. There’s a wealth of fi sh and vegetarian options, too – the mouth-watering tiger prawn masala and the aubergine curry with cashew nut paste come highly recommended.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-3pm, 6pm-11pm

The Cochin Location 61 High Street, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP1 3AF t: 0843 153 0563 w: www.thecochin.net e: [email protected]

Indian

*£8to

£16

MK

£13to

£18

SHWith its fresh, crisp and contemporary decor, Mahek Restaurant has been making something of a name for itself since opening three years ago.

A warm greeting welcomed us and once seated, in particularly comfortable, high-backed chairs, we were handed the menu. It offers not only traditional Indian options but also a wide range of signature dishes. With a relaxed atmosphere, and poppadoms to nibble whilst deciding, we were able to take our time teasing our tastebuds as we read what was on offer. Each mouth-watering description includes a spice rating, so there are no nasty surprises. My dining partner and I decided to go for one traditional option and one of Mahek’s signature dishes. For starters we enjoyed vegetable samosas and a rashme kebab, which comprised delicately spiced minced lamb wrapped in an omelette. For mains, I chose a spicy chicken jalfrezi and my partner opted for a mild, creamy chicken and

prawn curry, known as the Mahek Delight, which proved true to its name. Pilau rice, sag aloo and a buttery stuffed paratha completed our order.

Mahek also offers a family buffet on Sundays, a banqueting night menu Monday to Wednesday, and entertainment at the end of each month. All this, together with the superb food, provides the perfect excuse to revisit.

Although central Milton Keynes is a busy and bustling place on a Friday evening, we found Zen Garden to be an oasis of calm. This contemporary, cleverly designed restaurant is spacious enough to be able to cater for large parties, families and couples alike, making it an ideal spot to celebrate a special occasion or simply, as we did, enjoy a leisurely midweek meal. The buffet-style service offers diners the opportunity to try a little of everything. The dishes are fresh, authentic and made using traditional Japanese, Chinese and Thai recipes. We found the selection of hot dishes, ranging from favourites like duck pancakes and sweet and sour chicken, to more unusual sides such as chilli aubergine and garlic broccoli, particularly enticing. We sampled as many of Zen Garden’s delicious dishes as possible, starting with prawn crackers, sweet-and-sour chicken balls, crispy seaweed, sesame prawn toasts, spring rolls and deep-fried sweet potato. I continued with a selection of mains from the buffet, including tender beef in black

pepper sauce, duck pancakes, zingy lemon chicken and egg-fried rice. My dining companion, meanwhile, decided to take advantage of the teppanyaki bar and tucked into seafood teppanyaki, a selection of dumplings, noodles and succulent spare ribs. To fi nish, I indulged in a wonderfully fresh assortment of fruit with chocolate fondue, while my companion somehow found room for the delectable caramel apple cake and profi teroles. All the staff are friendly and attentive and certainly make sure that the Zen Garden experience is one to be savoured and remembered. *Price range represents the cost of the buffet.

Mahek Restaurant Location 201-205 Turners Hill, Cheshunt, Nr. Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN8 9DG t: 0843 153 0564 e: [email protected]

Indian & Bangladeshi

Zen Garden Location 326 Midsummer Boulevard, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 2EA t: 0843 153 0543 w: www.zengardenoriental.co.uk e: [email protected]

Far Eastern


Open: Mon-Thurs 5.30pm-11pm; Fri & Sat 5.30pm-11.30pm; Sun 1pm-10.30pm

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-3.30pm, 5.30pm-11pm; Sun noon-10pm



£15to

£20

SBThe best-kept secret in Beaconsfi eld Old Town and one of the few family-owned restaurants in the area, Leigh House has been impressing diners with its authentic, vibrant food for over 30 years. You’ll fi nd a huge range of dishes inspired by the exotic tastes of the Far East to suit all lovers of Chinese food.Alongside this extensive main menu, there are several great-value set menus available, ranging from £8.50 for a two-course lunch to £20 for a three-course dinner. These are great for those unfamiliar with Chinese cuisine – especially the Leave It To Us Feast, which provides a fantastic introduction to Peking fare. Or, for a really indulgent treat, perhaps try the lobster set menu. The Sunday all-you-can-eat buffet lunch, which allows diners to order as many dishes as they like from the comfort of their table, is also unmissable. Leigh House has recently introduced a new dim sum menu too, which is available at lunchtime every day.Owner Mr Tang recommended we begin by trying some fresh fi sh, which is one of Leigh House’s many specialities. An expert on Chinese cuisine, Mr Tang also prides himself on his knowledge of wine and is always willing to offer advice on which tipple is the best match for your meal. To start, he brought over a delectable selection of succulent hand-peeled king prawns, satay skewers, perfectly battered spicy squid and juicy yet crunchy scallop and mango samosas for us to try. We then sampled the very moreish Peking duck served with salad and pancakes. For mains, we tried the Twice Delight Dover Sole, a perfect combination of two unique fl avours from the same fi sh; one spicy with garlic, chilli and fi ve spices, the other lightly tossed in a wok with asparagus and shiitake mushrooms. The attention to detail and time spent on preparation sets this restaurant apart.Leigh House boasts a private dining room that’s ideal for private parties and corporate events. Or, if you’re planning a celebration elsewhere, you can have the restaurant’s expert chefs come and cook in your home or at a venue of your choice. Alternatively, if you are having a lazy night in, order yourself a takeaway and they will deliver to your door. Whichever way you enjoy the eatery’s superb cuisine, one thing is certain – one visit to Leigh House just won’t be enough.

Chinese Leigh House Location 53 Wycombe End, Beaconsfi eld, Buckinghamshire, HP9 1LX t: 0844 683 5461 w: www.leigh-house.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-2.30pm (buffet), 6pm-10.30pm

£20to

£25

SH

Phil Thompson is renowned in the restaurant industry for selecting quality produce dictated by the seasons and has achieved a number of prestigious accolades since opening THOMPSON@Darcy’s in 2013. These include two AA rosettes, an impressive score of fi ve out of ten in The Good Food Guide and a Michelin star, which he held for four years in his previous place of work.

‘...natural fl air and a talent for producing exceptional fl avour combinations...’

With a focus on consistency and quality, and incorporating local produce wherever possible, Phil demonstrates a high level of natural fl air and a talent for producing exceptional fl avour combinations. Before opening his own successful restaurant, Phil trained at various high-end establishments including Orrery, L’Escargot and The Lanesborough Hotel in London. Committed to providing exceptional food at affordable prices, Phil is keen to see more and more local St Albans residents as well as guests from further afi eld embrace his fi ne dining experience.

The kitchen at Flitwick Manor Hotel has played an important part in Steve Barringer’s culinary journey – it’s where he got his fi rst taste of life in the kitchen working part time while studying at Barnfi eld Catering College. After 14 years in the industry – and a stint on Masterchef: The Professionals in 2001, when he got through to the fi nal – Steve has returned to make his own mark on Flitwick Manor’s menu.

‘...more to Steve’s dishes than the menu lets on...’Steve champions local ingredients by cooking them simply and letting the natural, fresh fl avours shine through. His menus feature concise descriptions of each dish in order to retain an element of surprise. Prime examples of Steve’s imaginative cooking include the wood pigeon with beetroot, pear and Stilton, and sea bream with butternut squash, spring onion and ox cheek. Of course, there’s always more to Steve’s dishes than the menu lets on, so you’ll have to visit and sample his creations for yourself to discover what this talented chef can do.

Phil Thompson – THOMPSON@Darcy’s – Pg 4

Steve Barringer – Flitwick Manor Hotel – Pg 5 Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le


Offering exotic Pan-Oriental cuisine in a former malt house steeped in history, The Golden Elephant offers a wonderful dining experience. This popular restaurant is tucked away off Wheathampstead High Street and accessed via a quaint courtyard. The welcoming glow of this historic building sets the tone for the relaxed and friendly ambience inside. Exquisite hospitality and authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine combine, providing guests with a real taste of the East. All dishes are prepared from the very fi nest ingredients and house specialities include crispy wasabi prawns, Thai mango salad and Oriental-style grilled rack of lamb. The building can accommodate up to 100 diners, making it the ideal venue for any occasion, from intimate midweek dinners to big celebrations. With off-street parking also available, The Golden Elephant is easily accessible and well worth a visit.

Open: Tues 6pm-10.30pm; Weds & Thurs noon-2pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2pm, 6pm-11pm;Sun noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm

The Golden Elephant Location 43 High Street, Wheathampstead, Nr. St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL4 8BD t: 0843 155 0817 w: www.thegoldenelephant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Oriental

Chad Rahman is at the forefront of innovation in modern French-Asian cuisine. With a rare sensitivity to the nuances of global gastronomy, the dishes he produces are a celebration of multiculturalism. He has worked in some of the world’s most exclusive hotels, and is an active member of progressive institutions like the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs and the Craft Guild of Chefs.

‘...the dishes he produces are a celebration of multiculturalism...’

With a host of accolades under his belt, Chad’s talent speaks for itself – for 2002 and 2003 he was victorious in the fi nal, national round of CIEH National Chef of the Year and FSA National Chef of the Year as well as being named International Chef of the Year for demonstrating originality and technical precision. Intent on taking each customer on a culinary journey, Chad and his dishes look set to be remembered for a long time to come.

After completing a period of training at Westminster College, Russell Bateman undertook his fi rst full-time cooking position at Tutto in Heathrow, where he developed a diverse skillset. He then went on to undertake positions at several Michelin-starred restaurants, where he worked alongside some of the best chefs in the country, including Daniel Clifford and Marcus Wareing, and developed a simple yet precise cooking style which makes good use of fresh produce and showcases his deep-rooted respect for the changing seasons.

‘...the prestigious title of National Chef of the Year...’He was appointed head chef at Colette’s in 2007 and has succeeded in placing the restaurant fi rmly on the UK’s culinary map, achieving three AA rosettes and an impressively high score in The Good Food Guide. Recently awarded the prestigious title of National Chef of the Year by the Craft Guild of Chefs, Russell Bateman is fast becoming one of Britain’s brightest culinary stars.

Kevin Clark, executive head chef at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, has a reputation for creating exciting dishes with a modern twist using British produce. Having originally trained in Perth, Scotland before attending Westminster College, Kevin has gathered over 20 years of experience in some of the most illustrious kitchens in the UK: The Savoy Grill, The Ritz, Gleneagles and the Old Course Hotel.

‘...creating exciting dishes with a modern twist...’Kevin’s main inspiration comes from the use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, as well as his original mentors, Philippe Mattioni and Alan Hill. Kevin’s attention to detail and culinary fl air are prominent throughout all his dishes, from the adventurous assiette of beetroot to the more traditional roast breast of moorland grouse. Under Kevin’s guidance, the Wernher Restaurant at Luton Hoo Hotel has been awarded two coveted AA rosettes and continues to go from strength to strength.

Kevin Clark – Luton Hoo Hotel – Pg 5Chef Profi le

Chad Rahman – Chez Mumtaj – Pg 6

Russell Bateman – Colette’s – Pg 7Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le



Lee Mark has held numerous posts within the catering industry, including working for 12 years as a head chef. Now holding this position at The White Horse in Eaton Bray, Lee Mark enjoys the challenge he felt was missing from other roles, and the chance to combine a variety of different ingredients to create something spectacular, and moreover, scrumptious.

‘...not just a cook, but a chef; a well-respected leader who is passionate about food...’

Growing up in Saint Helena and being the son of a fi sherman, Lee Mark unsurprisingly has a passion for seafood – an ardour which is evident in his signature dish of canoed sea bass stuffed with fl aked almond, and crayfi sh tails in classic pesto, baked with shallots and vine tomatoes. Owner of The White Horse, Tom Dunnell, describes Lee Mark as not just a cook, but a chef; a well-respected leader who is passionate about food and knows how to manage not only himself, but a whole team.

Andrew Knight’s insatiable appetite as a child led him to pursue a career as a chef – after all, what better way to get to eat all the time than to work in a kitchen? He trained at the Michelin-starred Connaught hotel under Michel Bourdin, from whom he learnt about classic French cooking. Angela Hartnett taught him about kitchen management while Phil Thompson inspired his approach to modern cooking. As well as his obvious love of food, Andrew also loves teaching new cooks.

‘...Andrew also loves teaching new cooks...’Andrew uses local suppliers when possible, but puts sourcing the best possible ingredients fi rst. His favourite time of year is autumn and winter, when game is in season – he’s fortunate enough to have built up relationships with local shoots, resulting in access to some of the best produce in the country. For Andrew, good food doesn’t get much better than a whole-roasted game bird, served in a pub with a pint.

Andrew Knight – The Kings Arms – Pg 10

Lee Mark O’Dean – The White Horse – Pg 13 Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le


Auberge du Lac Restaurant – Welwyn ................................ 3Adam’s Brasserie at Luton Hoo Hotel – Luton Hoo Estate .. 28Ampthill Tandoori – Ampthill ........................................... 51Bangkok Lounge – Harpenden, Shefford ........................... 50Barrels, The – Luton ........................................................ 58Bell at Hardwick, The – Hardwick .................................... 43Bell, The – Studham .......................................................... 8Bentley’s Delicatessen – Leverstock Green ........................ 28Billy’s Bar & Restaurant – Harpenden .............................. 29Black Boy, The – Bricket Wood ........................................ 27Black Boy, The – Oving .................................................... 43Black Cat, The – Lye Green .............................................. 42Black Horse, The – Iver Heath ......................................... 49Boot, The – Bledlow Ridge ............................................... 21Boot, The – St Albans ..................................................... 47Brasserie at Aubrey Park – Redbourn ............................... 17Brasserie Blanc – Milton Keynes, Beaconsfi eld, Berkhamsted, St Albans ... 37Bricklayers Arms, The – Flaunden .................................... 16Bull, The – Cottered ........................................................ 26Chandini – High Wych ..................................................... 53Cheshunt Tandoori – Cheshunt ......................................... 52Chez Mumtaj – St Albans .................................................. 6Chutney Moe’s – Waltham Cross ...................................... 51Cinnabar Café – Stevenage .............................................. 25Clary’s Bar & Grill – Milton Keynes ................................. 27Clifton Indian Cuisine – Clifton ........................................ 54Coach House, The – Potton .............................................. 12Coast to Coast – Stevenage, Hemel Hempstead ................. 29Cochin, The – Hemel Hempstead ...................................... 58Colette’s – Chandler’s Cross ............................................... 7Corner 5 Restaurant – Kempston ........................................ 9Cowper Arms – Digswell .................................................. 21Cricketers of Redbourn, The – Redbourn ........................... 14Dalchini Spice – Shefford ................................................ 56Eight Bells, The – Long Crendon ...................................... 46Engineer, The – Harpenden .............................................. 27Farmer’s Boy, The – Brickendon ...................................... 26Five Arrows Hotel, The – Waddesdon ................................. 9Flitwick Manor Hotel – Flitwick......................................... 5Foragers, The – St Albans ................................................ 10Fox Country Inn, The – Ibstone ........................................ 26Frankie & Benny’s ........................................................... 30Freddie’s – St Albans ....................................................... 15French Horn, The – Steppingley ....................................... 20Frog & Rhubarb – Slip End ............................................. 17Gibraltar Castle – Harpenden ........................................... 19Glasshouse, The – Chandler’s Cross .................................. 40Globe, The – Codicote ...................................................... 48Goat, The – Hertford Heath ............................................. 46Golden Elephant, The – Wheathampstead ......................... 61

Golden Fleece, The – Braughing ....................................... 18Greek Taverna, The – Aylesbury ....................................... 18Green Kitchen, The – St Albans ........................................ 40Hare & Hounds – Old Warden .......................................... 14Indian Lodge – Flitwick ................................................... 57Indian Ocean – Lower Stondon ......................................... 58Junction Pub & Kitchen, The – High Wycombe ................. 19Kamillos Restaurant – St Albans ...................................... 31Kings Arms, The – St Albans ........................................... 10King’s Head, The – Ivinghoe ............................................ 15Knife and Cleaver Inn, The – Houghton Conquest ................ 8La Concha – Letchworth Garden City .............................. 38La Cosa Nostra – St Albans ............................................. 36Lake Restaurant – St Albans ............................................ 12Leigh House – Beaconsfi eld ............................................. 60Lounge India – Marston Moretaine .................................. 57Mahek Restaurant – Cheshunt .......................................... 59Millstream, The – Hertford .............................................. 41Nags Head, The – Great Missenden .................................. 16Oak, The – Aston Clinton ................................................. 42Old Barn Restaurant at The Cock Inn, The – Sarratt ......... 42Old Thatched Inn, The – Adstock ...................................... 24Olivier’s – Woburn........................................................... 38Orange Tree, The – Baldock ............................................. 47Oscars Pizza Company – Kings Langley ............................ 34Papa J’s – Milton Keynes, Luton ...................................... 55Pasta Cibo – Harpenden .................................................. 35Plough, The – Smallford .................................................. 48Pointer, The – Brill .......................................................... 13Radcliffe Arms, The – Hitchin .......................................... 25Rising Sun, The – Weston ................................................ 40Royal Standard – Wooburn Common ................................ 41Sopwell House – St Albans ................................................ 6Spices of Paradise – Harrold ............................................ 56Spotted Dog, The – Flamstead.......................................... 22Stables, The – Chandler’s Cross ....................................... 23Theatre District – Milton Keynes ...................................... 32THOMPSON@Darcy’s – St Albans .................................... 4Tilbury, The – Datchworth .................................................. 7Tudors Restaurant & Bar – St Albans ............................... 11Village Gate, The – Wendover .......................................... 23Vita Ristorante Italiano – Welwyn ................................... 35Waggoners, The – Ayot Green .......................................... 36Wernher Restaurant at Luton Hoo Hotel – Luton Hoo Estate ... 5White Hart Tap – St Albans ............................................. 48White Horse, The – Eaton Bray ....................................... 13White Lion, The – St Albans ............................................ 49Xscape – Milton Keynes ................................................... 44Zen Garden – Milton Keynes ............................................ 59

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Chilterns Food & Drink Guide 2015-2016

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