surrey food & drink guide 2015-2016

A comprehensive guide to eating out in SurreyR 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

a n n u a ledition

12th

SURREY

You’ve never experienced dining

quite like this before.

JRJR

Welcome

Surrey Guide 2017 1

Surrey Food & Drink Guide 2017

Contents

Canningford House38 Victoria StreetBristolBS1 6BYt: 0117 927 7167e: [email protected]: www.foodanddrinkguides.com

Editor Hannah Burton-Grieve

Senior Editorial AssistantsJoele Forrester, Alex Everill

Editorial Assistants Robert Masters, Tori Sharpe, Eliott Benoist

Graphic Designer Sally Bufton

Photography Steve Sutton (www.lensfx.co.uk), Majid Sedaghat (www.evictoriaphotography.com)

Contributors Sue Cullen, Helen Young, Sue Yearley, Josie Moore, Bridget Haines, Sue Creed, Catherine Barnes, Greg Phitidis, Dean Gurden, Keren Burney, Olivia Greenway, James Wright

PR & Marketing ManagerJen Merrikin

Project Manager Joe Packer

Advertising Sales Matt Brentley, Simon Northcott,Tim Hall, Derek Bannatyne, Emma Filby, Paul Balshaw, Emma Clarke, James Hicks, Iain McFarnon

Published by Food & Drink Guides Ltd

Publisher Sam Collins

Managing Director Robin Fry

Welcome to the Surrey Food & Drink Guide 2017. 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.

You’ll notice that some restaurants in the guide have an 084 telephone number. Calls cost 5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge.

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

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 July 2017.

Fine Dining ..................3Modern British .............5British .......................13Modern European .......16Seafood......................18Brasserie ....................19Bar & Brasserie .........20Bar & Restaurant .......20Bar & Grill .................27Wine Bar ...................28

Gastropub ..................28Steakhouse .................31Spanish ......................33Tapas .........................34Mexican .....................34German ......................34Mediterranean............35Lebanese ....................37French .......................37Italian ........................39

Café ...........................46Tearoom .....................49Traditional .................50Indian ........................72World Cuisine.............74Thai ...........................75Chef Profi les ..............77Index .........................80

Surrey Heath & WokingSW

GuildfordGu

Mole ValleyMV

KingstonKi

TandridgeTa

Staines-upon-Thames & EsherSE

WaverleyWa

Reigate & Banstead, Epsom & EwellRB

Sutton & CroydonSC

Farnham

GodalmingTilford

Guildford

Worplesdon

Ash

East Horsley

Shere

Woking

West Byfl eet

Bagshot

Staines-upon-Thames

HounslowRichmond

Wimbledon

EsherSutton Croydon

Oxted

Blindley Heath

Copthorne

Lingfi eld

Redhill

Reigate

Horley

SalfordsDorking

South Holmwood

Capel

Charlwood

Leatherhead

WeybridgeAddlestone

Cobham

Chertsey

Epsom

Ewell

Banstead

Tadworth

Warlingham

Caterham

Kingston

Camberley

Frimley

Haslemere

CranleighWitley

Chiddingfold

Northchapel

Ki

SE

SW

Gu

Wa

MV

RB

SC

Ta

Surrey Guide 20172

You can now download the FREE Food and Drink Restaurant Guide App

I feel privileged to be penning the foreword for the Surrey Food & Drink Guide for the second time. A lot has happened on the Surrey food and drink scene since my last contribution – not least the change of name of my own establishment to The Clock House (formerly Drake’s).

Other developments in the region have seen an explosion of artisan producers, brewers and distillers, many of whom feature on our menu including Silent Pool, Albury Estate, High Clandon, Wimbledon Brewery and Beckett’s. They use traditional methods while incorporating foraged foods and a modern twist to create something new and unique. This is something we like to echo at The Clock House, whether it is a new take on an old favourite dish or re-invention of a classic cocktail to make it our own, such as our Cucumber-Tea-Ny.

Something else has seemed to resurface in the region of late, and that’s passion. It’s what any industry is based on, whether you’re talking on a small scale, like Iain McArthur – a local rare-breed pig farmer in Ockham who is passionate about the welfare of his animals – or larger organisations like Secretts, who grow amazing produce all year round on their farm in Milford.

The diversity of our beautiful county provides a wide variety of places to enjoy food and drink, many of which are featured in this guide. Don’t forget to explore and discover at every opportunity, keeping an eye out for street food, local farmers’ markets and organised foodie events. I was delighted to be involved with The Ripley Grape & Grain Drinks Festival, which ran alongside the farmers’ market in June this year. It was an amazing day of food, drink and music, and was a real showcase of what Surrey has to offer.

We all have to eat and drink every day, so why not have the best experience you can by dining out at one of the fantastic restaurants featured in this guide? I hope you enjoy it and look forward to greeting you at The Clock House soon.

Serina Drake

Foreword

Surrey Guide 2017 3

*£45

to£55

GuFormerly known as Drake’s, The Clock House in Ripley is privately owned by Serina Drake. Head chef Fred Clapperton (chef profi le page 77) has received critical acclaim since taking over at the stove last autumn – within two months its three AA rosettes were swiftly reinstated.

The gorgeous Georgian building in the centre of the High Street has been sympathetically restored over the years, and a stylish blend of contemporary touches complement original oak beams and other Georgian features.

A great-value set meal is available from Wednesday to Saturday, priced from £26 at lunchtime and £45 for dinner. Saturday evening offers tasting menus only; the likes of seared and cured scallops with apple and ginger, and brill with smoked garlic, sea kale and shrimp prove too tempting to miss. What’s more, there is a fabulous vegetarian menu boasting young summer vegetables with ewe’s curd, nasturtium and Jersey Royals, as well as other mouth-watering options.

On paper, Fred’s food may seem simple, but behind the scenes, hours of preparation go into each dish. A course might include beef, brassica, wild mushroom and mustard, or perhaps blackberry, hibiscus, apples and shortbread, but menus change seasonally so you can expect a diverse dining experience whenever you visit. The restaurant’s kitchen garden produces some of its own herbs and vegetables, so fresh ingredients regularly go from garden fork to dining fork.

For those wanting to linger longer over their lunch or dinner, Fred has devised a tasting menu that offers a more ambitious Clock House gourmet experience. Hand-picked wine accompaniments are also available to complement and harmonise the exquisite fl avours. The eclectic wine list offers yet another voyage of discovery. The selection embraces small-scale producers (including many local English vineyards) and there is something to suit all tastes and budgets, in addition to a wide selection of wines by the glass. Drinks can be enjoyed in the oak-panelled cocktail bar – which has recently been extended – or in the pretty walled garden, weather permitting. Whether you call in for lunch or dinner, or a full gastronomic experience, you’ll fi nd that service at The Clock House is relaxed yet highly professional, and far from stuffy.

*Price range represents the cost of two or three courses from the à la carte menu.

Fine DiningThe Clock House Location High Street, Ripley, GU23 6AQ t: 0844 502 9659 w: www.theclockhouserestaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Weds-Sat noon-2pm, 7pm-9.30pm

Surrey Guide 20174


£28to

£46

KiRanked as the 55th best restaurant in the UK in The Good Food Guide 2015, and a founding member of JRE UK (Jeunes Restaurateurs), the family-owned Dysart Petersham is dedicated to comfort, quality, hospitality and freshness. Seasonal and local ingredients are showcased across the menu, from the canapés that are served at the start of the meal, to homemade bread, and the ever-changing selection of petits fours. Owner Barny Taylor and his team (chef profi le page 77)are passionate about their work and create an impeccable dining experience. The diners’ comfort is of the utmost importance, with tables comfortably spaced apart and attentive hospitality from the staff. The inspiration behind the cooking comes from France, Asia and, not least of all, the local area and its produce. Signature dishes include charred mackerel with kombu-braised daikon, ginger and Champagne, wild sea bass accompanied by lemon celeriac and green chilli and kaffi r lime sauce, and Longhorn beef with confi t heritage carrots and miso mustard sauce. Don’t be surprised to fi nd locally foraged mushrooms on the menu, or foraged elderberry

cordial beside a diverse and unusual selection of beer and wine, locally sourced and chosen to match the cuisine.Great-value set menus, a dedicated vegetarian menu and a six-course tasting menu offer something for all budgets and palates, while the wine dinners invite visitors to explore new pairings.

Food Served: Weds-Fri noon-2.45pm, 6pm-9.15pm; Sat noon-2.45pm, 6.30pm-9.15pm; Sun noon-3.30pm

The Dysart Petersham Location 135 Petersham Road, Petersham, TW10 7AA t: 0844 502 1106 w: www.thedysartpetersham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Fine Dining

*£39

to£45

SEAt The Oak Room, one of two restaurants in residency at Woodlands Park Hotel – the other being Bensons Restaurant (page 19) – guests can expect a truly beguiling setting for sophisticated dining. Think sparkling chandeliers, ornate oak-panelled walls, elegant upholstery, gleaming candlesticks and majestic floral displays.

Executive head chef Andrew Mackenzie (chef profile page 77) is sure to impress with his tantalising new six-course taster menu. We began with miniature cones laden with intensely flavoursome smoked salmon and garnished with beads of caviar, before moving on to enjoy a vibrant summer vegetable salad – colourfully composed of seasonal broad beans, beetroot, piquant pickled turnips and onion. Next, we were wowed by fillet of John Dory served with courgette flowers amply filled with salt cod brandade and lobster cream, drizzled in rich cuttlefish sauce; and melt-in-the-mouth beef fillet, sourced from Surrey butcher S.M. Pineger, served with Secretts carrots and lavish truffle sauce. The arrival of a cheese

platter of turophile-impressing proportions brought with it further delight. Époisses, Banon, Beaufort and Coastal Cheddar were served with tangy green tomato chutney and fresh beer bread. The meal was brought to a satisfying close with strawberry Eaton Mess.

With a history of hosting parties for extraordinary guests such as King Edward VII, Lillie Langtry and Oscar Wilde, to name but a few, a visit to the two-AA-rosette-awarded Oak Room is memorable for all the right reasons. *Price range represents the cost of a three-course meal.

Open: Weds-Sat 7pm-9.30pm

The Oak Room Restaurant Location Woodlands Park Hotel, Woodlands Lane, Stoke D’Abernon, Nr. Cobham, KT11 3QB t: 0844 502 9677 w: www.handpickedhotels.co.uk

Fine Dining

Surrey Guide 2017 5

£20to

£30

KiSaffron Summer offers an elegant take on Indian cuisine. Tables are adorned with linen tablecloths, and the cutlery is as polished as the service. Within such elegant surrounds, diners are treated to dishes that draw on India’s 29 states and customs, which are then given modern, stylish fl air by the talented executive chef. From the tempting menu of haute Indian cuisine, why not begin your culinary journey with golgappa? A popular street food, these crispy puri are the perfect way to whet your appetite. Next, select from starters such as curry leaf calamari, an Indo-Chinese fusion of apricot and chilli glaze, or Goan prawns recheado. To follow, the game dishes are highly recommended and include the popular wild boar vindaloo, and guinea fowl breast that’s cooked in the tandoor with peanuts and a dry mango marinade, accompanied by corn, mushroom and egg masala – a recipe that hails from the nomadic tribes of Ladakh. Meanwhile, fans of the classics can choose from the likes of lamb korma, vegetable jalfrezi and one of the

house specialities, butter chicken. On Sunday, Saffron Summer offers a unique Sunday roast. It comprises street food tapas, followed by an Indian-style roast with meat and vegetables, a selection of curries and then dessert. To complement the food offering is a hand-picked wine list featuring over 30 wines.A visit to Saffron Summer is made all the more special by the price tag – this is exemplary fare at exceptional value for money – no wonder it features among TripAdvisor’s top ten restaurants in Surrey so often.

Open: Mon-Weds 6pm-10.30pm; Thurs-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sun noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10pm

Saffron Summer Location Ace Parade, Hook Road, Chessington, KT9 1DR t: 0844 502 9492 w: www.saffronsummer.co.uk e: [email protected]

Fine Dining

*£24

to£30

SEAfter an incredibly successful fi rst year of trading, in which it received a Good Food Award and two AA rosettes, Petriti’s has become a key player in Surrey’s foodie community. Offering exquisitely presented and fl avoursome food in an undeniably sophisticated setting, it’s abundantly clear why the restaurant is so popular.

As can be expected from an award-winning establishment, the menus are enticing and extensive. Herefordshire beef served with tenderstem broccoli, shallots and oxtail pithivier; Cornish cod with Jersey Royal potatoes, sorrel, green peppercorns and lemon salt; and Orkney scallops are just some of the set menu’s delicious offerings. The six-course tasting menu offers yet more mouth-watering options, which include succulent Wrexham lamb, smooth crème caramel and a selection of British and French cheeses. A vegetarian tasting

menu of equally scrumptious dishes is proof that care and precision are taken in the preparation of each and every dish. In addition to this, specially selected wines can be added to the tasting menu to complement and enhance the superb fl avours of each dish, providing perfect pairings for your meal.

*£24 represents the cost of the two-course set menu; £30 represents the cost of the three-course set menu.

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

Petriti’s Location 98 Walton Road, Molesey, KT8 0DL t: 0844 502 9557 w: www.petritisrestaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

Surrey Guide 20176


£25to

£30

GuThe William Bray has put the pretty village of Shere on the map in more ways than one. This iconic Surrey pub receives an abundance of praise from its diners. Apart from the many well-known visitors, including George Clooney and Tom Cruise, The William Bray is fi rst and foremost known for its quality food and drink. An award-winning venue, The William Bray is also a Diner’s Choice Winner as chosen by OpenTable, the world’s largest online booking platform.

‘...an eclectic range of British classics with locally sourced produce...’

You’re more than welcome to just sip a pint of local beer in the bar, though dining in the smart restaurant is highly recommended. Seasonal menus offer an eclectic range of British classics with locally sourced produce from the Surrey

Hills and fresh fi sh caught off the Cornish coast. As well as the varied à la carte menu, there is an enticing specials board, which offers diners the chance to sample dishes that make the most of the season’s offering and showcase the chefs’ creativity and prowess.

The pub boasts a cosy atmosphere in winter, while during the summer visitors are invited to dine al fresco on the spacious terrace. If you are considering holding a private function, please call the team to discuss dining room and venue hire.

Open: Mon-Sun 10am-11pm

The William Bray Location Shere Lane, Shere, Nr. Guildford, GU5 9HS t: 0844 502 0650 w: www.thewilliambray.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

£18to

£25

MVThere’s nothing quite like strolling through a vineyard in one of the most picturesque parts of the country to get your tastebuds tingling. The Gallery Restaurant, set in a lofty third-fl oor space with sweeping views across one of the UK’s largest wine estates, certainly lives up to the anticipation.

My friend’s starter of crispy chilli beef with wasabi, toasted cashew nuts and watercress was a lovely fusion of Asian fl avours, and the crisp choux pastry of my crab beignets married well with the chilli crème fraîche, which added a subtle warmth. Our mains were equally stunning and colourful. Sweet and tender slow-roasted pork accompanied by herb and horseradish mash, cabbage, pickled rhubarb and a velvety apple sauce was superb. My cod loin was succulent yet fl aky, and was enhanced by steamed mussels, lemon potato croquettes and an assortment of vegetables. Moreish dark chocolate ganache and silky-smooth espresso panna cotta rounded off our fabulous meal. All of the wine on the accompanying drinks list comes from Denbies, and the menu offers useful pairing suggestions.

Whether you dine from the à la carte, like we did, or visit at lunchtime and enjoy the excellent-value set menus, The Gallery Restaurant will deliver amazing food in a very special setting.

Open: Sun-Weds noon-2.30pm; Thurs-Sat noon-2.30pm, 7pm-9pm

The Gallery Restaurant Location Denbies Wine Estate, London Road, Dorking, RH5 6AA t: 0844 502 0856 w: www.denbies.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

Surrey Guide 2017 7

Location Brooklands Hotel, Brooklands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 0SL t: 0844 502 1493 w: www.1907restaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

£29to

£54

SE

Proud of its historic location, the Brooklands Hotel’s award-winning restaurant is named after the year that Brooklands racetrack was established. With two AA rosettes to its name, 1907 Restaurant, Bar & Grill is a fi rm favourite for contemporary dining in and around Weybridge.

As you step into the elegant restaurant and cocktail bar, you’ll fi rst notice the relaxed and sophisticated atmosphere and the stunning decor, which is inspired by the 1920s and 1930s. The menu, which you might peruse with a cocktail in hand, has been carefully designed by executive chef Adam Potten (chef profi le page 78) to showcase the season’s fi nest produce, which is all sourced locally. Serving beautifully presented food that blends honest simplicity and classic fl avours with modern cooking techniques is 1907’s raison d’être. The friendly team ensures that your dining experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as the food is delicious. The restaurant also boasts a fi ne selection of wine to accompany your meal, and a team of trained wine experts is on-hand to offer advice and help you decide.

Tantalising starters such as scallops paired with sesame ice cream, pressed cucumber and soy reduction, and balsamic-glazed beef Carpaccio with horseradish marshmallows, Parmesan shavings and Himalayan salt are perfectly balanced and delightfully creative. Equally sumptuous are the garlic-brushed king prawns with dill aioli, fennel and cucumber slaw, and French fries from an innovative selection of dishes that can be sampled as starters or main courses. Known for its modern take on British classics, 1907 offers an unrivalled choice of gourmet burgers, perfectly grilled steaks, and rich main dishes such as seared duck breast accompanied by cherry ketchup, duck fat caramel and sugar-poached potatoes.

Unsurprisingly, the puddings here are heavenly, providing the perfect fi nal fl ourish to a captivating culinary experience. Earl Grey and rhubarb cake with tea jelly, rhubarb bits and mint shots, and rosemary-infused crème caramel with fresh berries and berry tuile are just a couple of the sweet treats on offer. Regardless of the occasion or time of day, you’re guaranteed a splendid and memorable visit to 1907 Restaurant, Bar & Grill.

Modern British1907 Restaurant, Bar & Grill

Food Served: Mon-Thurs 6.30am-10am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Fri 6.30am-10am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat 7am-11am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sun 7am-11am, 12.30pm-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm

Surrey Guide 20178


£25to

£30

WaThe Noah’s Ark sits right on the cricket green in the wonderfully picturesque village of Lurgashall, on the Surrey and Sussex border. It dates back to the 16th century, but has been brought up to date under the ownership of local couple Amy and Henry, who have infused the venue with plenty of contemporary touches, in everything from the decor to the British cuisine.

Amy and her talented head chef ensure that The Noah sources its ingredients from the very best local suppliers. This guarantees that they have high-quality, fresh, seasonal produce for the regularly changing menu and specials board. The team even does its own home-smoking, so the menu often features house-smoked meat, fi sh or cheese. Alternatively, choose from the likes of king prawn, chorizo and local wild garlic linguine with chilli and rocket, and free-range pork belly with Lurgashall apple and sage jelly. Perennial favourites such as the homemade burger with Goodwood Cheddar are always available.

As well as the restaurant, there’s an inviting bar, which is the perfect place to while away the evening, drink in hand. The traditional feel and warm atmosphere provide the ideal setting in which to sample from the vast wine list, with over 20 wines available by the glass, or the specially selected ales including a regularly changing guest variety. The Noah’s Ark has several choices of dining room and can provide tailored menus to meet the requirements of parties of all sizes and for all occasions.

Open: Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10pm (-8pm in winter)

The Noah’s Ark Location The Green, Lurgashall, GU28 9ET t: 01428 707346 w: www.noahsarkinn.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

£24to

£35

GuLocated on a peaceful village lane, The Plough at Effi ngham is popular with locals and visitors alike, and boasts a large car park and delightful garden. The Plough is more of a restaurant than a pub; the owners take great pride in the menu, which uses the freshest seasonal ingredients, sourced from top-quality suppliers.Having said that, drinks are far from neglected, as The Plough offers a great choice of Young’s beer and guest ale, and a carefully chosen list of fi ne wine, supplied by Berkmann Wine Cellars. The interior is simply decorated in an elegant, rustic style, and the beautiful garden, surrounded by a wide variety of fruit trees, forms an idyllic setting for al fresco dining and for Wednesday’s live jazz evenings. The menu spans pub classics such as soup of the day and bangers and mash, through to gastronomic contemporary dishes like seared pigeon breast with celeriac and apple remoulade, and pan-fried sea bass with lemon dressing, not to mention a selection of daily specials. The delectable desserts range from refreshing elderfl ower ice cream to The Plough’s renowned bread and butter pudding, and everything is homemade, including the bread,

the ice cream and the sauces. The Plough’s traditional Sunday lunch includes fi ve starters and eight main courses, as well as a choice of two roasts. Alongside the monthly changing menu, themed evenings are held on Mondays, and include burger night, curry night and steak night. Check out The Plough’s Facebook and Twitter for more.

Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sun noon-4.30pm

The Plough at Effi ngham Location Orestan Lane, Effi ngham, KT24 5SW t: 0844 502 0881 w: www.theplougheffi ngham.co.uk e: info@theplougheffi ngham.co.uk

Modern British

Surrey Guide 2017 9

£23to

£38

MVWhen a place is owned by the National Trust and is an offi cial Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, you expect it to be something special. Box Hill, in the Surrey Hills, is such a place. Its stunning beauty makes it perfect for outdoor pursuits, but also a tempting option if you want to get away from it all. So, where to rewind and refuel? Emlyn Restaurant, located at the Foot of Box Hill within the historic Mercure Burford Bridge Hotel, has easy access to the M25, Gatwick and Heathrow but feels a million miles from the bustle of city life. Its quiet position and spectacular views make it popular with business folk, those planning weddings and holidaymakers looking to enjoy a spot of golf, as well as locals who just can’t get enough of the fabulous dining experience offered within this newly refurbished restaurant. Named Surrey Life’s Restaurant of the Year 2017, the Emlyn Restaurant overlooks three acres of landscaped gardens and serves some of the fi nest food in Surrey.

‘...fabulous dining experience...’The menu of contemporary British cuisine is the work of chef Nick Sinclair and his dedicated team, who create an ever-changing menu using the best locally and regionally sourced produce available. Working with what’s fresh and in season, Nick’s style allows the ingredients to shine and insists that everything, from the bread to the ice cream, is made in-house and with absolute care. Current offerings include a starter of squab pigeon with turnip, Lancashire Bomb and hazelnuts and a main course of sea bream served with caulifl ower, capers, almonds and anchovies. You won’t be able to resist dessert at the Emlyn, with such temptations as the stem ginger panna cotta with poached rhubarb and rhubarb sorbet. Sunday lunch is a fi ne occasion, with options like roast loin and confi t belly of West Country pork with apple purée, crackling, caramelised onion and cider gravy to tuck into.

’...a million miles from the bustle of city life...’When the sun shines, adjourn to the Emlyn’s summer terrace and devour your repast whilst gazing out over landscaped lawns and Box Hill itself.

Modern BritishEmlyn Restaurant Location The Foot of Box Hill, Dorking, RH5 6BX t: 0843 153 4009 w: www.emlynrestaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon 7pm-10pm; Tues-Sat noon-2.30pm, 7pm-10pm; Sun 12.30pm-4pm

Surrey Guide 201710


£35to

£45

SW

Set among peaceful private gardens and Surrey woodland, this hotel provides the ideal accommodation for an idyllic romantic hideaway. Rich in original features and history, with simply beautiful bedrooms, this is a must-visit venue and one of the fi nest hotels in Surrey. Four-star accommodation offers the chance to relax in style after all the activity of the day. Visit the restaurant for a quiet meal in luxurious surroundings or, for unparalleled relaxation, book into the spa or take a refreshing swim in the pool in the Vital Health and Wellbeing Club.

At Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel & Spa, every member of the team knows that quality is paramount, which is why only the fi nest Scottish beef, lamb, pork and wild white fi sh is served, and vegetables and dairy products are sourced from local, organic producers where possible. They also believe that

presentation enhances fl avour, and that the refi ned period setting is the perfect accompaniment to the food. Enjoy a fi rst-class breakfast or fi ne meal with friends in the elegance of the Linden Restaurant, which has been awarded two AA rosettes in recognition of its food and impeccable service. For a more casual dining experience, settle into the Sandhurst Lounge and order a light snack or afternoon tea accompanied by a soundscape of birdsong outside.

Open: Mon-Sun 7pm-9.30pm

Linden Restaurant Location Macdonald Frimley Hall Hotel & Spa, Lime Avenue, Camberley, GU15 2BG t: 0344 879 9110 w: www.macdonaldhotels.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

£15to

£30

WaApplegarth is a unique location, comprising a fi rst-rate restaurant, farm shop and many other small artisan businesses. It provides a bespoke, relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy exceptional food, all made from scratch by the team of talented chefs.Applegarth Farm Shop & Restaurant is the place to be for healthy breakfasts, light lunches and a cheeky glass of wine or two. Choose to dine in front of the wood burner or head outside to the sunny decked area. The team is passionate about coffee and tea, with a variety of freshly ground coffee beans and a large selection of loose-leaf teas to accompany the exquisite homemade cakes, all of which can be found at the deli counter in the superb farm shop. There too, you can fi nd a great range of treats and meals, many of which feature on the lunch menu. Sunday lunches offer something different, and in the summer the pub’s gourmet barbecue sees guests tucking into the likes of fi sh and Longhorn beef cuts, all cooked to order and perfectly charred.

Evenings see an established following of regulars visiting to enjoy perfectly cooked seasonal dishes that use homegrown produce wherever possible. The unique private Nordic dining cabin boasts a homely feel and can be hired for a dinner party without any hassle. All this is accompanied by a thoughtfully compiled wine list that caters for every taste, plus an impressive selection of cocktails, all of which boast a unique Applegarth twist.

Open: Mon-Weds 9am-6pm; Thurs-Sat 9am-late; Sun 9.30am-5pm

Applegarth Farm Shop & Restaurant Location Headley Road, Grayshott, Nr. Hindhead, GU26 6JL t: 0844 502 0654 w: www.applegarthfarm.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

Surrey Guide 2017 11

£25to

£30

WaThe Park Hatch is a family-run venture that recently underwent extensive refurbishment. The character of the original 18th-century building remains, with vaulted ceiling beams in the new barn and solid oak window ledges retained in the traditional pub, enhanced by leather-upholstered chairs and hunting-themed decor in the form of antler-shaped chandeliers.

‘...the perfect place to while away a lazy afternoon...’Outside, there are plenty of picnic tables, and twinkling fairy lights line the fences. It’s the perfect place to while away a lazy afternoon in the sun, while the kids run free. There’s also a chef’s barbecue area for the perfect summer event.

Upon entry, we were treated to a warm and friendly welcome from staff, who are evidently proud of the charming venue. We had diffi culty choosing from the menu, with each dish sounding more delicious than the last. Visiting on a Thursday, there was also a dedicated burger menu being served. To begin, we sampled the soup of the day – homemade tomato and herb paired with fresh bread – and pan-fried scallops with grilled chorizo and red pepper purée. The scallops were deliciously soft, and the tangy chorizo proved the perfect accompaniment. To follow, I plumped for the beef rib-eye, which was marinated in balsamic vinegar and served atop a tian of potato Dauphinoise. The beef was perfectly cooked and the potatoes were wonderfully creamy. My wife was equally taken with the linguine, which came with succulent prawns, scallops and crayfi sh.

‘...this beautiful restaurant is a great place to dine...’Although we were rather full from our previous courses, we couldn’t resist the allure of the desserts. I devoured banoffee pie topped with a kumquat, which was beautifully presented on a white china plate. Delicate melt-in-the-mouth raspberry, white chocolate and mascarpone cheesecake was my wife’s choice.

Left to our own devices but with waiting staff on-hand, we were treated to a lovely evening at The Park Hatch. Surrounding tables were fi lled with groups big and small – no matter the occasion, this beautiful restaurant is a great place to dine.

Modern BritishThe Park Hatch Location Bookhurst Road, Cranleigh, GU6 7DN t: 0844 502 9354 w: www.theparkhatch.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sat 10am-9.30pm; Sun 10am-6pm

Drop us a line at [email protected] more information

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WE NEED YOU!


£15to

£20

WaOwners of independent restaurant Lion and Lamb Cafe Brendan and Magdalena keep a fi rm focus on quality when it comes to sourcing produce. Their philosophy of using local and fresh produce permeates all of their buying, with meat from their Godalming-based butcher, and veg and herbs from nearby Milford Farm. The monthly changing menus represent the very best seasonal British fare, while the reasonably priced wine list and B.Y.O option make it a great value destination in Farnham. The venue has a pretty private dining room, perfect for parties of up to 28 people, which can be reserved for lunch, dinner or any special occasion at no hire charge. The restaurant opens late on Friday and Saturday evenings for dinner. Breakfast is served daily until midday, and all day on Sunday.

Open: Mon-Thurs 9am-5pm; Fri & Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 10am-4pm

Lion and Lamb Cafe Location 19 Lion & Lamb Yard, Farnham, GU9 7LL t: 0844 502 2159 w: www.lionandlambcafe.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern British

£15to

£27

MVHop, skip and jump across the River Mole over ancient stepping stones and you’ll fi nd yourself at Stepping Stones – gorgeously traditional on the outside, elegant and refi ned on the inside. Adjacent to Box Hill and in the middle of picturesque walking country, Stepping Stones is a place for respite. Stop by for a plentiful afternoon tea or perhaps a hearty Rambler sandwich – the cheese inside is local Norbury Blue, just one of many local ingredients used. Diners are guaranteed fresh fi sh from the fi shmonger on Fish Fridays. Tuesday is steak night, with meat straight from the butcher down the lane. Wet your whistle with a local beer like Tillingbourne from a microbrewery in Shere or Surrey’s famous Hogs Back. You can even visit the breweries on Meet the Brewer days. There is also a 50-seater function room that’s ideal for everything from a big birthday bash to a business meeting. To top it off, there’s regular live music.

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

Stepping Stones Location Westhumble Street, Westhumble, Nr. Dorking, RH5 6BS t: 0844 502 2751 w: www.steppingstonesdorking.com e: [email protected]

Modern British

Drop us a line at [email protected] more information


We’re always looking for exceptional talent to join our UK-wide network of writers, so if you’re passionate about great food and are a talented wordsmith, get in touch. We need top-notch writers to help us out across a broad spectrum of creative projects that includes printed guides, our blog and a number of exciting websites.

WE NEED YOU!

£20to

£30

GuNestled in the village of Worplesdon, in the heart of National Trust countryside, The Jolly Farmer is a traditional country pub and a popular destination for walkers, ramblers and foodies alike. Renowned locally for its fantastic food and fi ne cask ale, The Jolly Farmer is the perfect place to relax and soak up the family-friendly atmosphere. A gorgeous garden offers al fresco dining for sunny days, while log fi res keep you cosy on chilly winter evenings. Choose from fl avoursome meals such as langoustines with garlic butter, hand-cut chips and watercress, and chicken supreme with truffl e mash, wild mushrooms and pea fricassee, and puddings such as vanilla and ginger cheesecake, and sticky toffee pudding. If you’re just stopping by for a few drinks, why not share a charcuterie platter or fi sh platter?

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-9.30pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5pm-9pm; Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-9.30pm; Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-8pm

The Jolly Farmer Location Burdenshot Road, Worplesdon, GU3 3RN t: 0844 502 9440 w: www.jollyfarmerworplesdon.co.uk e: [email protected]

British

Surrey Guide 201714


£18to

£25

TaGodstone Hotel is one of those classic hotels with a wonderful restaurant that you wish every village had. Thankfully, this one’s been here serving great food in picturesque Godstone since 1976, though the building itself dates back to the 16th century. We visited on a busy Sunday lunchtime and received a warm welcome from owner Corinne and the team.

As well as traditional Sunday roasts, there were lots of tempting specials to choose from. My partner’s classic prawn and smoked salmon salad starter with Marie Rose sauce was fresh, while my garlic and chilli tiger prawns were also perfectly cooked and had a subtle heat. A main dish of English rump of lamb with rosemary and garlic was beautifully tender and came with a suitably sharp redcurrant jus, which cut through the sweet meat. My partner’s roast loin of pork was pretty special as well, and came complete with to-die-for crackling, apple sauce and sage gravy. Both dishes came

with roast potatoes and a selection of vegetables. A slice of scrumptious lemon cheesecake and a creamy crème brûlée fi nished off a wonderful lunch.

History seems to ooze from the Coach House Restaurant’s brickwork and beams, but it wears its olde-worlde charm lightly thanks to its contemporary touches. We’d love to come back and stay the night.

Open: Tues-Fri noon-2pm, 7pm-9.30pm; Sat noon-2pm, 7pm-10pm; Sun noon-2.30pm

Coach House Restaurant Location Godstone Hotel, The Green, Godstone, RH9 8DT t: 0844 502 9514 w: www.godstonehotel.com e: [email protected]

British

£24to

£34

KiOne Over The Ait is thus named for its proximity to the Brentford Ait – an island within the Thames. The venue sits directly at the water’s edge at Kew Bridge, offering picturesque views and delicious food to match. Characterful features give a nod to the building’s industrial past, and the interior is tastefully decorated with fl ashes of red adorning doorways, pipes and the steel girders overhead.

With fresh produce delivered daily, dishes here have a vibrancy of both fl avour and appearance, which is particularly noticeable in the pesto-crusted lamb cutlets, served with Jersey Royals, minted peas, and anchovy and caper butter. Alongside a whole host of fabulous mains, a choice of sumptuous desserts and a cheeseboard is available to follow. The chocolate brownie with orange and chocolate ice cream is a classic mouth-watering combination that provides an instant draw for those with a sweet-tooth. No pub is complete without a superb Sunday roast, and One Over The Ait has that box ticked too. With a range of meats and something for the vegetarians in

your party, there are options to suit all palates.

Guests can choose from an extensive list of drinks, and it is defi nitely worth noting that a selection of the beer is brewed just a stone’s throw away at Chiswick. Expect a delightful atmosphere, with friendly staff who are always attentive and eager to assist.

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

One Over The Ait Location 8 Kew Bridge Road, Brentford, TW8 0FJ t: 0844 502 9390 w: www.oneovertheait.co.uk e: [email protected]

British


£15to

£20

RBWith an unrivalled selection of international craft beer and a bistro-style menu of tempting meals, The Market Stores is one of Reigate’s most popular pubs. It boasts a delightful traditional pub atmosphere, perfect for after-work drinks and family meals alike. If you’re in a hurry, sate your hunger with a tasty homemade sandwich, or for something more substantial choose from the enticing main menu. Highly recommended mains include marinated barbecue baby back ribs. Sharers such as Buffalo chicken wings, lamb kofta, and salt and pepper squid are a fantastic way to start an evening catching up with friends. For pudding, plump for Paul’s chocolate brownie with Laverstoke ice cream. Come summer, The Market Stores roars to life with the beautiful rooftop garden offering unparalleled ambience.

Open: Mon-Weds 11am-11pm; Thurs-Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Sun noon-5pm

The Market Stores Location 2 High Street, Reigate, RH2 9AY t: 0844 502 9408 w: www.marketstores.co.uk e: [email protected]

British

£15to

£20

KiBringing the country pub dining experience to the outskirts of the city, The Hare & Hounds is located in Osterley in West London. With a regularly changing menu, daily specials and weekly rare-cut steaks, there are plenty of new dishes to choose from every time you visit. All of the dishes showcase seasonal produce, sourced from hand-selected suppliers. Choose from chicken satay, crispy ham hock and many more delectable starters. Mains include rump of lamb with feta, fennel, orange, quinoa salad and pomegranate, and spiced green lentil curry with caulifl ower, spinach and wild rice, as well as some irresistible grilled meats such as harissa lamb chops and barbecue ribs. In the summer months, the pub garden comes alive with regular barbecues, and a special al fresco menu makes an appearance.

Open: Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

The Hare & Hounds Location Wyke Green, Osterley, TW7 5PR t: 0844 502 9334 w: www.hareandhoundsosterley.co.uk e: [email protected]

British

£20to

£30

GuA fi rm favourite on Guildford’s dining scene, The White House is a traditional, family-friendly pub with an emphasis on offering wholesome, seasonal food and tasty Fuller’s beer. The balanced menu features British classics as well as a few international dishes such as harissa-spiced chicken with Israeli couscous, roasted peppers and yoghurt. Freshly cooked meals crafted with fabulous locally sourced ingredients are offset by a range of fantastic starters and small plates designed for sharing. For a delectable three-course meal, plump for yassa-spiced chicken with chilli and lime mayo, followed by pan-fried bream with Jersey Royals, chorizo, and herb and heritage tomato salsa. Conclude an exquisite meal with the indulgent passion fruit crème brûlée, served with a coconut biscuit. After your meal, why not enjoy a relaxed pint in the sunny terrace garden?

Open: Mon-Thurs 10am-11pm; Fri & Sat 10am-12.30am; Sun noon-10pmFood Served: Mon-Thurs 10am-11.45am, noon-10pm; Fri & Sat 9am-11.45am, noon-10pm; Sun noon-7pm

The White House Location 8 High Street, Guildford, GU2 4AJ t: 0844 502 9437 w: www.whitehouseguildford.co.uk e: [email protected]

British

Surrey Guide 201716


£17to

£28

KiIf you’re looking to experience elegantly presented cuisine in a contemporary setting, look no further than No 97. Sam Berry opened the venue in 2016, and has already captured the attention of local foodies as well as those from further afi eld. They are drawn to No 97 by the imaginative dishes that feature on the menu, which was created by head chef Dario Zannoni. From the tempting selection we chose goat’s cheese parfait and tandoori salmon to begin, followed by succulent saddle of lamb paired with aubergine quinoa and whipped feta, and pan-fried hake atop a bed of black risotto. To fi nish I indulged in Seville orange cheesecake with white chocolate and brown butter ice cream, while my partner enjoyed the raspberry and chocolate souffl é. Our visit to No 97 was completed with a gin-based cocktail each from the extensive offering. This is a place to see and be seen.

Gin Bar Open: Tues-Sat 6pm-midnight Food Served: Tues-Fri noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9pm; Sat 10am-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9pm; Sun 10am-2.30pm

No 97 Location 97 Maple Road, Surbiton, KT6 4AW t: 0844 502 9310 w: www.no-97.co.uk e: [email protected]

Modern European

£20to

£25

KiThe Spring Grove is a family-friendly hotspot in Kingston upon Thames. Tucked away in the suburbs, this traditional pub radiates charm from its elegant decor and original 17th-century features. It’s the most delightful spot, where little ones can entertain themselves in the children’s play area while you enjoy a selection of premium wine and beer and the best of British food. The Sunday roasts are particularly favoured amongst the community, which might have something to do with the large Yorkshire puddings and the locally sourced meat and veg. The Spring Grove is in the vicinity of the local church, and boasts an angelic reception venue suitable for a bespoke party. One of its best features is its versatility all year round – not only is it perfect for cosy nights by the fi re, but at the back you will fi nd a large garden with a sheltered decking area to hide from a warm summer night’s rain.

Open: Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

The Spring Grove Location 13 Bloomfi eld Road, Kingston, KT1 2SF t: 0844 502 9533 w: www.thespringgrove.co.uk e: [email protected]

British

£15to

£20

KiThe Prince of Wales is a fantastic family-friendly pub in the heart of Surbiton, which emphasises fresh, seasonal food and delicious drinks. The talented team of chefs ensures that local produce is delivered every day and that the menu showcases a wide range of tasty, vibrant dishes for your enjoyment. Perhaps you’ll start with toasted focaccia topped with tomato and pine nut caponata, Laverstoke mozzarella, rocket and balsamic vinegar, and follow with roast guinea fowl breast, served with salsify, potato rosti and tarragon cream sauce. Light bites and sharers such as the Fish & Chip Shop Platter are the perfect snack to accompany a refreshing Fuller’s tipple. The Prince of Wales boasts a spacious, recently renovated beer garden, perfect for whiling away a sunny afternoon. With family-friendly games, ample seating for al fresco dining and drinks, and an outdoor TV for sports screenings on sunny days, this pub is always a top choice.

Open: Sun-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight Food Served: Mon-Sun noon-9pm

The Prince of Wales Location 117 Ewell Road, Surbiton, KT6 6AL t: 0844 502 9405 w: www.princeofwalessurbiton.co.uk e: [email protected]

British


£30to

£40

SETravel up the long drive to the portico of this Palladian mansion, which has been a hotel since the 1850s, and discover a venue with a rich history. Oatlands Park is an independently owned 140-room hotel, serving lunch and dinner to non-resident guests, as well as their popular afternoon tea, with unusual breads, excellent scones and interesting fi llings.

Set within the grounds of sweeping lawns bordered with ancient trees is Mulberry Restaurant – named after a fruit popular in Tudor times. Head chef Charles Noorland (chef profi le page 78) joined the institution two years ago and believes in simple British food, prepared using the best ingredients he can fi nd, and organic where possible.

‘...prepared using the best ingredients...’I found the carrot and tomato soup had a depth of fl avour and was perfectly seasoned. My companion’s gravadlax, prepared on the premises, was also wonderfully fl avoursome. For mains, I had the mushroom risotto. Made with Italian arborio rice and cooked al dente, it was a delightful orchestra of mushrooms – shiitake, oyster, chanterelles and hen-of-the-woods – lightly fl ash-grilled beforehand to intensify the individual fl avours and served with a Parmesan crisp. Sea bream was my companion’s choice, beautifully cooked and served with Jersey Royal potatoes and grilled tomato. I was too full for a dessert – portions are generous – but my companion was tempted by the vanilla crème brûlée and melt-in-the-mouth shortbread biscuit. We both had a coffee to end the meal.

There is a carefully selected wine list, which includes numerous options by the glass, and comprises red, white, rosé, Port and dessert wine, as well as a selection of Champagne and sparkling wine, including Prosecco. There’s also a comprehensive choice of cocktails and soft drinks.

Service was smiling and helpful throughout, and made our dining experience all the more special. We’ll certainly be returning soon, and with the menu changing regularly in line with the produce available, we’ll have new delights to sample.

Modern EuropeanMulberry Restaurant Location Oatlands Park Hotel, 146 Oatlands Drive, Weybridge, KT13 9HB t: 0844 502 9419 w: www.oatlandsparkhotel.com e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-9.30am, noon-2.30pm, 3pm-5.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Sat 8am-10am, noon-2.30pm, 3pm-5.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun 8am-10am, 1pm-5.30pm, 6pm-10pm

Surrey Guide 201718


£20to

£25

Ki

Seafood

Location 58 Coombe Road, Kingston, KT2 7AF t: 0844 502 9389 w: www.fi shkitchenkingston.com Open: Tues-Sat noon-10pm Location Jarvis the fi sh!monger, 56 Coombe Road, Kingston, KT2 7AF t: 0844 502 9392 w: www.jarvisfi shmonger.com Open: Tues-Sat 7am-4pm Location Cathedral Street, Borough Market, Southwark, SE1 9AL t: 0844 502 9397 w: www.fi shboroughmarket.com Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-11pm; Fri 11am-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 10am-10.30pm

fi sh! Kitchen is the brainchild of restaurateur Tony Allan. Following the success of the magnifi cent glasshouse that is fi sh! in Borough Market, the Kingston restaurant was opened. From the outside, the venue paints a pretty picture thanks to its front tiling and quiet location. Inside, fi sh! Kitchen boasts contemporary decor and an inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and partake in a delicious meal.

To the right of the restaurant area sits Jarvis, a traditional fi shmongers. Here, you’ll fi nd sustainably sourced fresh seafood. From this counter, visitors are invited to choose their fi sh or seafood of choice, with the option of having it cooked to order for lunch next door in the restaurant, fi sh! Kitchen. We began our visit by perusing the lengthy à la carte menu, which changes regularly in line with the produce available. From seasonal options to classics like beer-battered cod, plaice, haddock, skate and halibut, we made our decisions. Although tempted by the seared tuna Carpaccio and diver-caught scallops, we couldn’t resist the Cornish dressed crab on toast, and hot smoked salmon croquettes. Both proved excellent choices. I then opted for grilled gurnard fi llets, fresh from the counter in Jarvis next door. The fi sh arrived alongside scallion mash, brown butter and capers, and was very fl avoursome. From the grill menu, my partner chose swordfi sh accompanied by salsa verde and a side of buttery new potatoes. While the fi rst two courses were substantial, we couldn’t resist sampling from the mouth-watering range of desserts, and opted for a couple of scoops of palate-cleansing ice cream, which is locally made.

Our meal was completed by a bottle of delicious dry house white, which we chose from the excellent wine list. Beer and soft drinks are also available.

If you’d prefer to enjoy fi sh! Kitchen’s offering at home, the venue offers a takeaway service, and home delivery is also available thanks to Deliveroo.

fi sh! Kitchen e: info@fi shkitchen.com


£24to

£34

KiWith an ever-growing collection of gorgeous restaurants across the country, Browns Brasserie & Bar is a highly revered name within the foodie community, and its Kingston venue is no less exquisite in its stature or reputation. It occupies an idyllic location beside the winding Thames, and guests are provided with a delicious selection of food throughout the day, as well as fi rst-rate service from the friendly team.

Breakfast and brunch are plentiful. There are several smoothies and a wealth of traditional breakfasts on offer, with the pick of the bunch being the lobster Benedict, served with a toasted English muffi n, poached free-range eggs, buttered spinach and Hollandaise sauce.

If you’re not an early riser and fancy an indulgent treat, why not visit for a spot of afternoon tea with family or friends? You can expect bite-sized brioche buns and crostini with a variety of fi llings, followed by home-baked scones and miniature

desserts, all washed down with a pot of tea. The two-course weekday lunch menu represents fantastic value at £11.95, while the evening menu is extensive, boasting vegetarian options as well as a dedicated gluten-free offering. Browns is the ideal destination for hosting special occasions such as Christmas parties and evenings out. With discounted bottles of bubbly on Fridays and the Rose Theatre just a brief wander away, you’ll do no better for pre- or post-entertainment refreshments.

Open: Mon-Thurs 9am-11pm; Fri & Sat 9am-11.30pm;Sun 9am-10.30pm Food Served: Sun-Thurs 9am-10pm; Fri & Sat 9am-10.30pm

Browns Brasserie & Bar Location Charter Quay, 3 Jerome Place, Kingston, KT1 1HT t: 0844 502 9587 w: www.browns-restaurants.co.uk e: [email protected]

Brasserie

£25to

£39

SEBensons Restaurant in Woodlands Park Hotel offers a more relaxed dining alternative to the fine dining experience at The Oak Room (page 4). Kick back and relax in the contemporary restaurant and enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner. Bensons is flooded with light and the cheerful, efficient staff will make sure that you’re well looked after from the minute you arrive. Menus are carefully considered to include healthy dishes alongside some hearty favourites, and there’s a dedicated children’s menu for younger visitors. Starters are light and hint at the skilled flavour pairings that the kitchen is renowned for. You might try dishes such as pan-roasted corn-fed chicken breast, accompanied by Savoy cabbage, quinoa, carrots and thyme sauce. Steak-lovers are advised to try something from the grill. Chuck-eye and sirloin steaks are grilled to perfection and served with fi eld mushrooms, roasted cherry tomatoes, watercress and Béarnaise sauce. Fresh fish of the day always graces the menu and there are

plenty of other options to cover all preferences, from beefburgers through to open sandwiches and lighter bites. Desserts are creative and indulgent, and somewhat hard to resist. How does raspberry shortbread with clotted cream and raspberry sauce sound?

Woodlands Park Hotel has plenty of outside space for roaming around and you can dine al fresco when the weather is fine. There’s also free parking, which is something of a rarity in Cobham.

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-10pm; Sat & Sun 8am-10pm

Bensons Restaurant Location Woodlands Park Hotel, Woodlands Lane, Stoke D’Abernon, Nr. Cobham, KT13 3QB t: 0844 502 9681 w: www.handpickedhotels.co.uk

Brasserie

Surrey Guide 201720


£20to

£25

MVGossip Bar & Lounge is a new addition to the High Street, offering a touch of the West End to residents of Leatherhead. The place is a bar and brasserie, and so offers a great range of cocktails, beer and local delights such as Silent Pool gin. The drinks offering is best enjoyed while relaxing in the contemporary restaurant, seated in one of the booths. This is where we found ourselves recently, poring over the menu with a Mojito and Bellini.

Although tempted by the range of savoury crêpes, which includes cheesy spinach and pulled pork fi llings, we decided to plump for something a little heartier. We chose steaming hot beef Bourguignon, served with roast potatoes and garlicky mushrooms, as well as the locally produced Surrey farm steak, bacon and cheese burger, which was accompanied by a sizeable portion of spicy, loaded fries. For those with a sweet-tooth, the display of artisan ice cream and gelato is sure to tempt. I plumped for a scoop of the refreshing coconut ice

cream, while my partner devoured pistachio and salted caramel.

A further string to this glamorous venue’s bow are the music events, which Gossip hosts at the weekend and every Thursday evening. With the team behind this establishment ready to go the extra mile to provide an exemplary package, this venue is a welcome addition to the Leatherhead food and drink scene.

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

Gossip Bar & Lounge Location 24 High Street, Leatherhead, KT22 8AQ t: 0844 502 9425 w: www.gossiplounge.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Brasserie

£15to

£35

GuThe Hurtwood Inn sits in the charming town of Peaslake, surrounded by the rolling hills that have led to the area being named an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s a great stop-off for walkers and cyclists alike, looking for a sunny spot in which to rest and refuel.

‘…wonderful Italian cuisine here…’ The menu features traditional pub classics that have stood the test of time, though you’ll also fi nd wonderful Italian cuisine here. The pub menu features the likes of homemade lasagne, and a house burger accompanied by chips and salad. Alternatively, why not opt for a home-cooked pizza? Topping combinations include spicy American sausage and fresh chilli, and anchovies, capers and olives. In the restaurant, a seasonally changing à la carte menu is available, which may feature dishes such as wild sea bass with a potato crust,

and local venison wrapped in Parma ham. The Sunday roast offering is also adapted to suit the produce in season, though always features meat, fi sh and vegetarian options, and everything is accompanied by vegetables, roasties and a homemade Yorkshire pudding.

Complementing the menus is a comprehensive wine list, which showcases Old and New World varietals. If wine isn’t your tipple of choice, there’s ale on tap and a range of spirits and soft drinks, too.

Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sat & Sun noon-late

The Hurtwood Inn Location Walking Bottom, Peaslake, GU5 9RR t: 0844 502 9471 w: www.hurtwoodinn.com e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant


£25to

£30

Ki

Bar & RestaurantThe Willow Health Restaurant & Bar Location 16 The Triangle, Kingston, KT1 3RT t: 0844 502 9409 w: www.yourwillow.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Sat 8am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat 8am-9pm; Sun 9am-9pm

If you’re looking for food that is as healthy as it is delicious, look no further than The Willow. This unique restaurant and bar, within easy reach of Kingston and Norbiton stations, shares its location with a holistic health centre. The Willow’s message is that food is medicine; however, dishes on the varied menu never compromise on fl avour.

Enter The Willow via a courtyard garden and you’ll fi nd that the dining room is a spacious, relaxing oasis of calm, with eye-catching features that afford a touch of glamour. The atmosphere is convivial, the service charming and effi cient, and the menu is truly unique. A pervasive respect for food is refl ected in the careful choice of ethical suppliers, and as much consideration is given to cooking methods as to ingredients by the innovative head chef.

The Willow’s ‘health on a plate’ philosophy means that all recipes have been created with nutritional preferences and intolerances in mind. The menu signposts categories such as dairy-free and grain-free, allowing customers to enjoy the food without worry, regardless of dietary requirements. Everything on the menu is gluten-free. The interesting range of starters includes rabbit and date pâté with pear chutney, and a Malaysian rendang curry. The tender beef was spiced with fi ery ginger and chilli, and tempered by coconut, imparting wonderful depth of fl avour. With main dishes to suit all palates, we were spoilt for choice. I enjoyed free-range lemon and garlic poussin, with luscious wild mushrooms, baby spinach and colourful heritage carrots. My companion chose fabulous Buckinghamshire organic lamb rump, with pumpkin purée and pak choi. Vegetarian and vegan dishes are also available, along with tasty fi sh dishes such as macadamia-crusted halibut on a bed of crumbled caulifl ower and samphire.

Healthy eating at The Willow doesn’t mean missing out on sweet treats. We tried a fl ourless dark chocolate cake and thoroughly enjoyed it. To accompany your meal, there’s an impressive range of gluten-free beer, organic wine and cider, and even a selection of cocktails with a nature-inspired twist.

The Willow is a sophisticated venue for adults, but is also family-friendly, offering Sunday lunches, a healthy children’s menu and Kid’s Kitchen workshops. There’s also a breakfast menu available. This must-visit restaurant is equally suitable for celebrations, meetings or a quiet meal and offers a growing schedule of special events.

Surrey Guide 201722


£25to

£30

KiFrom humble beginnings as a street food pop-up restaurant, the award-winning barbecue fare at Smok’d gained such a great following of fans that the team put down roots at The Grey Horse.

The menu comprises mouth-watering options like the pulled pork burger, chicken wings and the ever-popular Jacob’s Ladder beef ribs, which were made famous by being crowned Great British Rib Champions by Ribstock. Excellent value for money is a given at Smok’d, especially when you visit on one of their early week offer evenings, which see a meal and drink priced at just £10. These include Monday’s Ribfest and Burger Tuesday – which includes the famous classic burger that featured on Thrillist’s list of the best burgers in the world. The drinks menu is visit-worthy in its own right. The cocktail list comprises a mixture of classics, as well as some of the team’s own intriguing creations. Behind the bar, you’ll also fi nd more than 140 Scotch single-malt whiskies, in addition to varieties from Japan,

Ireland and America.

Why not make your visit to Smok’d all the more special and visit The Ram Jam back room after your meal? It plays host to some of London’s fi nest blues, jazz and swing acts every week, as well as live comedy from the likes of Michael McIntyre, Andy Parsons and Ross Noble.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-10pm

Smok’d Location The Grey Horse, 46 Richmond Road, Kingston, KT2 5EE t: 0844 502 9325 w: www.grey-horse.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

£16to

£32

KiJust a minute’s walk from the Thames riverbank and with Richmond Green just around the corner, Richmond Vault is ideally situated for locals and visitors to the suburban town. Fully air-conditioned with vaulted ceilings and a restaurant on the lower level, Richmond Vault promises a unique experience for all who visit. The menu offers an eclectic but ever so enticing assortment of homemade dishes prepared by experienced chefs. A dish of mussels with a choice of four sauces is the pick of the starters, while the aged 8oz rib-eye steak served with mushroom sauce, rocket salad and chips is always a popular main course. Other dishes include aromatic lamb shank served with caulifl ower and aubergine rice and a red wine and cinnamon gravy, and grilled prawns fl avoured with chilli and coriander, drizzled in a lemon and butter sauce.The bar specialises in carefully sourced craft beer with at least 80 top-notch local

and international options at a time. With some cask ales remaining in situ and other drinks changing on a weekly basis, you can rest assured that you will fi nd a tasty tipple whenever you visit. There’s also an interesting selection of wine, alongside delicious cocktails such as the popular Chocolate Martini.The Vault’s owners have many years of experience as a family-run business and have developed a winning ethos of serving high-quality beer and food, and providing genuine customer service. They’ve added live music to the mix at Richmond Vault, making it the ultimate stop for an evening out.

Open: Sun-Weds noon-midnight; Thurs-Sat noon-1am

Richmond Vault Location 5 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1SX t: 0208 332 0055 w: www.richmondvault.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant


£20to

£30

SEThe highlight of any visit to Kempton Park Racecourse is the stunning Panoramic Restaurant, which, as the name suggests, offers spectacular views across the course. The 400-seat restaurant has a relaxed and informal drinking area on the spacious bar level, along with a refurbished tiered dining space affording fi ne views of the racecourse, where every seat really is the best in the house.

‘...breathtaking panoramic backdrop...’The stunning vistas are complemented by an extensive new wine list and a range of international beer, including the robust Belgian pale ale, Duvel. If you’re stopping by for a quick drink, make sure you sit back and take in the breathtaking panoramic backdrop.

If you’re pushing the boat out and opting for the full three-course feast, plump for pulled pork and apple terrine with pickled vegetables and toasted brioche to start. Follow with the sumptuous fi llet of sea bass with pesto mash, slow-roasted peppers, rocket, tomato, and aged balsamic. For dessert, it doesn’t get much better than the warm toffee and apple crumble accompanied by English custard, although the rich chocolate fondant and the Kempton cheeseboard are also huge hits.

Although no advance booking is required for the majority of race days, allowing race-goers to turn up on the day, advance booking is encouraged. On special occasions, Kempton Park offers a variety of restaurant packages and it is strongly recommended to call ahead to avoid disappointment. On premium days, set packages are available, with a two-course option starting from just £69 per person (including admission, parking and a racecard). What’s more, you can tailor each package to suit your needs.

If you’re after a more private dining experience, the racecourse also boasts a range of viewing boxes and suites that range in size and capacity. A visit to Kempton Park is great fun as well as great value – we defi nitely recommend you pop along and experience it for yourself. For more information and to book your package, please visit the website or give the friendly team a call.

Bar & RestaurantKempton Park Racecourse Location Staines Road East, Sunbury-on-Thames, TW16 5AQ t: 01932 753518 w: www.kempton.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: during race fi xtures

Surrey Guide 201724


£20to

£35

SEThe Boat House restaurant at The Bridge Hotel offers a peaceful and calming dining experience, thanks to its enchanting riverside location. With seats on the veranda, this is the perfect spot from which to enjoy a summer’s day, while rainy days can be spent in the elegant restaurant. Take your eyes off the river bank scene and you’ll fi nd what’s on offer inside equally alluring – a diverse menu brimming with moreish favourites that have stood the test of time, as well as an inventive range of original options.

‘...a diverse menu brimming with moreish favourites...’Why not begin with delicious pan-fried scallops with pancetta crisps, black pudding and stunning sweetcorn purée? To follow, opt for the tastebud-tingling sea bream accompanied by shallot- and tomato-crushed potatoes, seasonal green vegetables and beautifully seasoned salsa verde. The dessert menu is equally varied, and features the likes of decadent sticky toffee pudding balanced with

lovely vanilla ice cream. Alternatively, if you’re a chocolate fan, the melt-in-the-mouth Mars Bar brownie will prove irresistible.

Thanks to delicious fare and a relaxed atmosphere, you’ll leave The Boat House well-fed and refreshed.

Bar Open: Mon-Sat 11am-11.30pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Fri 7am-9.45pm; Sat 8am-9.45pm; Sun 8am-9.30pm

The Boat House Location The Bridge Hotel, Bridge Road, Chertsey, KT16 8JZ t: 0844 502 2328 w: www.boathousechertsey.com e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

£20to

£30

KiThe Park Hotel restaurant has become a fi rm favourite among Teddington locals, as well as those passing through for business or a stroll in nearby Bushy Park – and for good reason. The modern English cuisine is superb and the warm, friendly service will have you coming back for more, time and again.The menu is concise, with traditional favourites like gourmet burgers, Cumberland sausage and mash, and rib-eye steak. On our visit, we were delighted by the goat’s cheese and red onion tart, which was balanced perfectly with zingy tomato relish. My dish of soft-poached duck egg with asparagus and cured ham served with light mustard dressing was superb. The traditional beer-battered haddock and chips was wonderfully fresh, crispy and light and was paired with a crisp, aromatic chardonnay-pinot. My partner was equally impressed with the tender slow-roasted pork belly, served on a bed of mashed potato with spring onion, green beans and beautifully sweet, honey-roasted carrots. The accompanying cider gravy was outstanding. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with sticky toffee pudding with custard and rich butterscotch sauce. If

you’re lucky enough to catch it on the specials menu, the blueberry, strawberry and vanilla crème brûlée is also delicious.With regular entertainment evenings, light bites and lunches on offer, there really is something for everyone at The Park Hotel.

Bar Open: Mon-Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Fri 7am-9.45pm; Sat 8am-9.45pm; Sun 8am-9.30pm

The Park Hotel Location 19 Park Road, Teddington, TW11 0AB t: 0844 502 2175 w: www.parkhotelteddington.com e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant


£20to

£40

MVLocated in the attractive market town of Dorking, Red Bar & Lounge is a food-lover’s paradise, offering exquisitely presented food of the highest standard. Whether you’re meeting friends in the lively bar, dining al fresco, or enjoying food fi t for a king in the restaurant, there’s something for everyone.Owners Eric and Lorraine have sourced the fi nest local produce, and friendly, attentive staff will guide you through the fantastic selection of starters and mains on the set and specials menu. For a mise en bouche we were treated to mouth-watering asparagus velouté, and tempura asparagus and carrot purée. To start, I opted for the panko-crumb halloumi with harissa mayonnaise, Secretts salad and chilli and lemon dressing. My partner chose the seared scallops on caulifl ower purée, crushed peas, pancetta and pea shoots. For the main course we enjoyed the delectable pan-fried sea bass with crushed Jersey Royals, carrot purée, asparagus and wild mushroom cream, and the equally tasty pan-fried

duck breast with spinach, broad beans, celeriac purée, girolles, Port jus and sage crisps. My raspberry frangipane with orange crème fraîche and rhubarb compote, and my partner’s baked vanilla cheesecake with coconut ice cream provided a wonderful end to the meal. A superb wine and cocktail list, including a selection of over 25 gins, completed our Epicurean experience. With great wine, local ale, friendly service and food that’s hard to beat, Red Bar & Lounge is a must.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-9.15pm; Fri & Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-6pm

Red Bar & Lounge Location 45 Dene Street, Dorking, RH4 2DW t: 0844 502 2735 w: www.redbar-dorking.com e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

£25to

£35

SEJack’s Kitchen is the perfect place for those visiting Kingston in need of a home away from home, as well as for locals looking for a treat. As members of the latter category, we were rather excited to discover what culinary delights awaited us in this contemporary and lively restaurant. We started with beef Carpaccio and salmon ceviche. Both dishes represented exactly what an appetiser should be: fresh, light and fl avourful. The ceviche was served in a tangle of tangy samphire, avocado, pomegranates and charred corn, and the Carpaccio was drizzled in truffl e oil, grain mustard and manuka honey, with a sprinkling of Parmesan. Although tempted by the impressive range of creative cocktails, I opted for a glass of the pinot noir, which complemented my grilled saddleback pork perfectly. The pork cutlet was wonderfully juicy and arrived atop a bed of pumpkin and burnt onion. Meanwhile, my partner enjoyed Surrey Farm beef fi llet served with truffl ed foie gras mousse and claret jus. For dessert I was delighted

with my choice of the chocolate bomb. It comprised a rich chocolate brownie topped with vanilla ice cream, and was encased in a milk chocolate shell which, when drizzled with hot salted caramel sauce, melted to reveal the decadent fi lling. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, my partner recommends the dreamy salted caramel and peanut butter cheesecake.With warm service, a welcoming atmosphere and great views of the Thames, Jack’s Kitchen provides guests with plenty of choice and promises that all who visit leave satiated and eager to return.

Food Served: Mon-Fri 6.30pm-10.30pm; Sat & Sun 6pm-10pm

Jack’s Kitchen Location Holiday Inn Kingston South, Portsmouth Road, Surbiton, KT6 5QQ t: 0844 502 9369 w: www.jackskitchenuk.com e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

Surrey Guide 201726


£9to

£16

WaRefurbished in September of 2016, this friendly, lively bar and restaurant is all about good times and gourmet burgers. Situated just outside Farnham’s railway station, The Mulberry is a great place to meet for a casual drink or a meal, or to party the night away. Sit in the largest beer garden in central Farnham with a pint or watch a variety of live events shown on numerous large screens. You can reserve the garden for a private party or barbecue, or take advantage of the function room inside. The recently refurbished interior is welcoming, thanks to the eclectic mix of furnishings and rustic touches. The menu utilises produce from the local baker, butcher and veg man, so everything is as fresh as can be. Try one of 20 gourmet burgers, made using the fi nest locally sourced beef, and seasoned to perfection. Upstairs you’ll fi nd hostel-style accommodation that’s great for groups or individuals.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-midnight; Fri & Sat noon-1.30am; Sun noon-11pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Fri & Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-8pm

The Mulberry Location Station Hill, Farnham, GU9 8AD t: 0844 502 0846 w: www.mulberryfarnham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant

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£16to

£22

SE

With over 70 venues across the country, Slug & Lettuce has gained a reputation for offering great value and extremely high quality food and drink options. Their premises in Staines sits beside the Thames on a wonderful riverside promenade, boasting beautiful canal boats and picturesque views. Offering meals at all times of the day, the menu has something to take your fancy whenever you visit. Lunch options include the likes of burgers, wraps and lasagne, and after 4pm the evening menu takes over. A selection of sharing boards and an irresistible 35-day-aged British steak with skinny fries and beer-battered onion rings are just some of the many choices for you to choose from. Make sure you save some room for a sweet treat. Whenever you call in you’re sure to fi nd great offers, so you’d be mad to miss out.

Open: Mon-Weds 10am-11pm; Thurs 10am-midnight; Fri & Sat 10am-1am; Sun 10am-10.30pm

Slug & Lettuce Location 15-18 Clarence Street, Units 3-4 Thames Edge, Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 4SU t: 0844 502 9674 w: www.slugandlettuce.co.uk/staines e: [email protected]

Bar & Restaurant


£25to

£35

GuYou’d be hard-pressed to fi nd a venue like The Percy Arms. From the outside, the building exudes British charm, in keeping with the style of the picturesque village of Chilworth in which it sits. However, once inside, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to southern Africa. The decor is reminiscent of a colonial hunting lodge, with chandeliers shaped like antlers, colourful rugs on the fl oor and plush seating adorned with patterned weaves.

‘...you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to southern Africa...’

If you visit in the daytime, the set lunch menu is excellent value, with two courses priced at just £12.95. Meanwhile, hungrier visitors – or those visiting in the evening – can choose from the à la carte. Starters such as New England clam chowder and home-cured gravadlax are the perfect way to begin a meal. To sample more of The Percy Arms’ offering, there are also meat, vegetable and seafood sharing platters available. Next, treat yourself to something from the grill section of the menu. This is where the skilled kitchen team really shows their talent, cooking delicious options like short ribs and marbled rib-eye steak to perfection. For a taste of the African continent, opt for something like ostrich medallions drizzled in berry jus, or mild yet fl avoursome Durban-style curry accompanied by rice, sambals and poppadoms. Little ones are catered for with their own menu.

For large parties of over 20 guests, The Percy Arms pulls out all the stops with their Braai menu – a South African barbecue. The bill of fare includes chicken piri piri, juicy ribs and traditional boerewors, plus a whole host of sides such as chakalaka bean salad, spicy rice and caulifl ower bake.

After your delicious feast is over, forgo the drive home and instead make use of The Percy Arms’ fi ve decadent rooms. Each is individually styled, but Egyptian cotton sheets, a goose-down duvet and Wi-Fi can be found in every room. The Ingwe room offers stunning vistas of the surrounding rolling hills, while Ndlov boasts a walk-in wet room and a slipper bath. Surely there’s no better way to begin your morning than with a soak in the tub followed by a full breakfast.

Bar & GrillThe Percy Arms Location 75 Dorking Road, Chilworth, Nr. Guildford, GU4 8NP t: 0844 502 9488 w: www.thepercyarms.net e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-10pm; Sat 8am-11pm; Sun 8am-9pm

Surrey Guide 201728


£20to

£36

WaSet in the picturesque Surrey Hills, The Red Lion is one for food-lovers and fans of proper pubs. This 16th-century building has retained features like open fi res and fl agstones, and overlooks the village’s cricket green – as such it conjures images of summer afternoons spent happily drinking fi ne wine and good beer. The menu combines pub favourites, unique specials and fi ne dining in one perfect package. Starters of pan-fried crispy duck salad with oranges, watercress and hoisin dressing lead to mains of salmon cooked in white wine, topped with caramelised scallops and served with new potatoes and salad, or classics like honey-roast ham topped with a double egg and chips. Private events can be catered for, there’s a stunning garden, dogs are welcome and families are made to feel at home – no wonder locals sing the praises of The Red Lion so freely.

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-3pm (& 6.30pm-8.30pm in summer)

The Red Lion Location The Green, Shamley Green, GU5 0UB t: 0844 502 2341 w: www.redlionshamleygreen.com

Gastropub

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www.foodanddrinkguides.co.uk

£10to

£20

SWPrimarily a wine bar, Cellar Magneval is the sort of independent hideaway that every town needs. This chic little spot boasts quirky and eclectic Continental-themed decor that sets the scene perfectly for an evening of fi ne wine, with over 90 different varieties available, and delicious nibbles. We sampled some charcuterie sharing platters that featured the likes of wild boar and wonderfully peppery saucisson accompanied by cornichons. We also enjoyed a pot of olives and pesto, feta-stuffed peppers and a bread basket with balsamic vinegar glaze. The star of the night for us, though, was defi nitely the cheese trolley, which moved from table to table tempting diners with a selection of 20 or so British and French cheeses. The attentive staff helped us choose an assortment that included fresh goat’s cheese and a lovely aged Comté. To accompany your tipple, there is also a delicious selection of open sandwiches available at lunchtime, alongside the normal food menu.

Open: Tues 5pm-11pm; Weds-Sat 11am-11pm

Cellar Magneval Location 3 Church Path, Woking, GU21 6EJ t: 0844 502 9563 w: www.cellarmagneval.com e: [email protected]

Wine Bar


£20to

£30

KiIt’s not often you get the chance to experience award-winning cuisine at everyday prices. The Hampton is such a place, tucked away in a quiet residential spot. It’s a little gem just waiting to be discovered.Brazilian chef Geo Bassani Lima has a great many accolades under his belt – he’s a very talented individual. He’s passionate and enthusiastic about the food he presents, and rightly so, because the menu is superb. His offering has been recognised by the Good Food Awards for the last three consecutive years, and The Hampton is the only gastropub to hold this title. On our visit, I began with goat’s cheese panna cotta enhanced by walnuts and beetroot. Meanwhile, my companion went for the soup of the day and enjoyed lentil soup accompanied by a hunk of artisan bread. To follow, my tender Welsh lamb rump was artfully served atop a bed of Parmesan risotto, and tasted

wonderful. A big fan of seafood, my friend was highly impressed with his Scottish salmon, gnocchi, chorizo and mussels. We were unsure if we had room for dessert, but couldn’t resist sampling the homemade ice cream. Although we visited on a weekday evening, the restaurant was bustling with diners – it evidently has a loyal following of fans. As such, we highly recommend booking a table before everyone else discovers this amazing venue.

Open: Sat-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight

The Hampton Location The Avenue, Hampton, TW12 3RA t: 0844 502 9365 w: www.hamptonpub.co.uk e: [email protected]

Gastropub

£24to

£40

MVAs the self-proclaimed most secluded pub in Surrey, every journey made to the welcoming and award-winning Stephan Langton Inn is an adventure through the beautiful hills and countryside. This dog-friendly venue feels like a true home-from-home, and is an ideal spot for relaxing with colleagues, friends and family. There are many artefacts inside that hint at owners Anneliese and Lee’s love for the great outdoors. Several rugby balls and a shotgun take pride of place at the back of the bar, and ornamental animals and fl owers are dotted around, adding more character to this wonderful venue. Locally sourced seasonal produce is paramount to the everyday running of The Stephan Langton, with many dishes on the menu made using ingredients from the surrounding area. Salmon is smoked locally at the Tillingbourne trout farm, and fresh produce arrives daily from independent producers, enabling the inn to offer a varied and extensive menu. The venue’s Archbishop’s pie comprises

steak, pheasant breast, mushroom and Tillingbourne Black Troll ale, and is a culinary ode to the former Archbishop of Canterbury, with whom The Stephan Langton shares its name.With a delicious Sunday lunch menu, newly introduced afternoon teas and a bar stocked with tipples, including an impressive collection of 40 gins, there are plenty of reasons to head to The Stephan Langton, regardless of the occasion.

Open: Tues-Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11am-7pm Food Served: Tues-Sat noon-3pm, 6.30pm-9pm; Sun noon-4pm

The Stephan Langton Inn Location Friday Street, Abinger Common, Nr. Dorking, RH5 6JR t: 0844 502 9612 w: www.stephanlangton.pub e: [email protected]

Gastropub

Surrey Guide 201730


£23to

£37

MVImagine the perfect country pub. I guarantee you are thinking of somewhere that looks and feels an awful lot like The Running Horses. Set in the picturesque village of Mickleham, this 16th-century country inn oozes olde-worlde English charm and class.

‘...olde-worlde English charm and class...’We entered via the cosy bar and were shown into an expansive wood-panelled dining area and to one of a row of comfortable and stylish booths. The menu presented a well thought out selection of tempting dishes. The fi g, Parma ham and goat’s cheese salad was a delectable starter, and the wood pigeon Wellington with hot pickled red cabbage was equally superb.

‘...fl avours were well-balanced...’I opted for the pan-fried whole lemon sole served with watercress, new potatoes, lime and grapes; the fl avours were well-balanced and delightfully delicate. My partner chose the roasted breast of guinea fowl with a medley of fresh accompaniments. For dessert, the rich tiramisu roulade was well-matched with cherry ice cream, while my partner’s choice of treacle tart with clotted cream was suitably sticky. Both dishes were comfort food of the highest order.

If you’re just popping in for a drink, perhaps after a walk, or picking out a drink to complement the sublime food, you’re in for a treat. Try one of the smooth ales, or select from the impressive wine list; the attentive staff will be more than happy to recommend a glass.

‘...comfort food of the highest order...’The Running Horses is ideal for a business lunch, romantic evening meal, dinner with friends or a leisurely drink. If you fi nd you want to stay a while, make use of one of the fi ve luxury en-suite rooms upstairs, all tastefully styled. For a home-away-from-home experience, check into the one-bedroom cottage, 50 metres from the pub. Cyclists attempting nearby Box Hill can rest easy knowing their bikes are safe in the secure bike storage.

Gastropub The Running Horses Location Old London Road, Mickleham, Nr. Dorking, RH5 6DU t: 0844 502 1490 w: www.therunninghorses.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon-Thurs 7.30am-9.30am, noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Fri & Sat 8am-10am, noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Sun noon-8pm


£25to

£40

SEOccupying a picturesque spot in Englefi eld Green by the Bishopsgate entrance to Windsor Great Park, The Fox & Hounds offers a much-lauded level of culinary excellence. From salt and pepper calamari to seared scallops with shaved fennel, pomegranate, pea purée and prosciutto chips, the dishes are presented like works of art – stylish, inventive and delicious. Alongside seasonal dishes and options of slow-cooked Iberico pork belly with crushed spring onion potatoes and caramelised pineapple, and pan-fried sea bass with potato fondant and lemon and saffron relish, traditional pub favourites are also sure to please. The sharing steaks are sensational – opt for the Chateaubriand for a real treat. The majority of the meat is sourced fresh from the pub’s neighbours at The Crown Estate in Windsor Great Park, and the seafood comes mainly from the Cornish coast. The ever-changing desserts, meanwhile, are wonderfully satisfying. Like the restaurant itself, the menu refl ects the perfect blend of modern and traditional cooking.

The wine list caters to all tastes, with some very reasonably priced options, as well as extra-special selections and a Bordeaux Prestige list for those who wish to push the boat out – there could surely be no better accompaniment to a Sunday roast with all the trimmings. Also worth highlighting are The Fox & Hounds’ epic barbecues, which take place in the beautiful terraced front garden from noon until the sun goes down when the weather is especially fi ne.

Open: Mon-Sat 8am-11pm; Sun 9am-8pm Restaurant Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-4pm Bar Food Served: Mon-Sat 8am-9.30pm; Sun 8am-7pm

The Fox & Hounds Location Bishopsgate Road, Englefi eld Green, TW20 0XU t: 01784 433098 w: www.thefoxandhoundsrestaurant.com e: [email protected]

Gastropub

£22to

£38

TaHoused within the beautiful Grade II listed George in Oxted, Blue offers a comprehensive and diverse menu of steaks, brasserie-style dishes and daily specials in an elegant, country pub setting. Blue @ The George is the perfect venue in which to relax and enjoy fantastic hospitality and top-quality food and drink in a historic location on Oxted’s High Street, just a stone’s throw from Godstone.

From the steaks and specials menu, choose from Aberdeen Angus fi llet steak, Chateaubriand, and Argentine rib-eye steak, or plump for something different such as wild boar fi llet steak, or a fabulously rare cut of Iberico pork from between the shoulder blade and loin of the pig. Alongside the succulent steaks and a tasty range of burgers, an à la carte offering of delightful brasserie-style dishes features the likes of roast hake fi llet with samphire, olives and tomato coulis atop crushed new potatoes, and duck leg confi t accompanied by plum compote, celeriac mash and

braised red cabbage.

If the weather’s clement, the fully refurbished terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a drink and a spot of al fresco dining in the warm summer sun or under the shade of a parasol. This contemporary decked space also has gas heaters to enhance mild evenings. When it’s cold and rainy, roaring fi res will keep you nice and toasty indoors.

Food Served: Tues-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-8pm; Bank Holidays noon-7pm

Blue @ The George Location 52 High Street, Oxted, RH8 9LP t: 0844 502 9402 w: www.thegeorgeoxted.co.uk

Steakhouse

Surrey Guide 201732


£20to

£25

SWPotters Steakhouse & Bar enjoys a scenic location by the canal in the village of Mytchett. Situated just ten minutes from Farnborough, it’s a great destination for diners looking for tasty food and a relaxing view.

Make the most of the restaurant’s position and sit outside on the veranda, or head inside to appreciate the spacious restaurant. It was refurbished in 2016, redesigned with attractive metallic-coloured seating, burgundy accents and atmospheric lighting.

‘...a great destination...’From our comfortable seats inside, we could hear sounds of laughter, glasses clinking, ducks quacking and occasional cheering for the football game that was being shown in the bar. Our attention soon turned from appreciating the relaxing ambience to the mouth-watering menu. It’s comprehensive, meaning there’s plenty of choice for all appetites and dietary requirements. We began with seafood; Atlantic pan-fried prawns for me, and salmon atop avocado and rocket for my partner. Both dishes were perfectly executed and we devoured every bite. To follow, we opted for fi llet and T-bone steaks. Both were cooked exactly to order – the chefs here clearly know what they’re doing. For those who’d prefer something other than steak, Potters also offers salads, burgers and the likes of pan-fried sea bass, braised pork belly with bubble and squeak, and grilled chicken and couscous. Vegetarians needn’t worry about missing out, as the menu has a dedicated meat-free section where you’ll fi nd options including garlic mushroom and baby spinach risotto, and vegetable shepherd’s pie. We couldn’t resist fi nishing on a sweet note, so I opted for traditional apple pie with cream. My partner was very tempted by the cheeseboard, but eventually decided upon sticky toffee pudding, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

The evening sunshine poured through the fl oor-to-ceiling windows while we ate, and the surrounding tables of large families and couples created a lively buzz. As the sun set and the evening began to darken, twinkling green lights sprang to life around the lake, highlighting the trees and the sleeping geese. It was a charming end to a delicious meal.

Steakhouse Potters Steakhouse & Bar Location Mytchett Place Road, Mytchett, Nr. Camberley, GU16 6DD t: 0844 502 9384 w: www.potterssteakhouse.com

Open: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9.30pm


£20to

£25

TaCasa Lola is an authentic Spanish restaurant and tapas bar. It’s a great place for a fun and lively night out with a crowd, or even a romantic meal for two.

‘...a fun and lively night out...’Begin your visit at the long bar and let the day’s worries melt away with a glass of wine or two from the varied selection. Once you’ve had your fi ll, make your way to the restaurant area, where classic terracotta paving, striking decorative tiles and crisp tablecloths will make you feel welcome and excited to dine.

Promptly seated by the friendly staff, we nibbled olives and Padron peppers while perusing the lengthy menu. It features the likes of mouth-watering paella, tiger prawn Thermidor and lamb cutlets. Although tempted by the selection, we decided that the tapas menu would be the best way to sample Casa Lola’s offering, and our table was soon groaning under the weight of our delicious choices. The classic patatas bravas – deep-fried potatoes in a tomato and chilli sauce – were very moreish and had a suitable kick. Meanwhile the chorizo al vino went perfectly with the mellow Rioja that we had ordered. The albondigas came in a rich tomato and pepper sauce and were also cooked to perfection, but perhaps the most stunning dish of all was the fi sh skewer, which comprised tender pieces of monkfi sh and smoky grilled prawns.

‘...only source the best ingredients for dishes...’From the homemade desserts, I plumped for crème Catalan – which was both delicious and beautifully presented – while my partner devoured creamy banoffee pie.

It was evident throughout our feast that the kitchen team is very talented, taking care to only source the best ingredients for dishes. Our meal was perfect from beginning to end, with the front-of-house team proving effi cient and on-hand, without being overbearing. We’ll certainly be returning to Casa Lola soon, perhaps next time during the day to take advantage of the lunchtime menu, which offers two tapas dishes for £6.

SpanishCasa Lola Location 8 Croydon Road, Caterham, CR3 6QB t: 0844 502 9386 w: www.casalolatapas.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Tues-Thurs noon-3pm, 6pm-10pm; Fri & Sat noon-11pm

Surrey Guide 201734


£20to

£30

KiStein’s in Kingston was opened following the success of the original Stein’s at Richmond Riverside. While Richmond’s Stein’s is an open-air beer garden, the Kingston branch is a restaurant decked out in the style of a cosy Alpine lodge. Inside, there are individual touches everywhere you look – such as the deer head above the fi replace and large cowbell above the bar – and outside you’ll fi nd a spacious terrace overlooking the Thames and Kingston Bridge. Staff traditionally dressed in dirndl and lederhosen lead diners to bench seats, which are arranged for larger groups and couples alike. The main menu is traditional Bavarian-Austrian fare – the sharing platter featuring sausages, sauerkraut and pan-fried potatoes is a popular choice – and is, of course, best accompanied by a large stein of Bavarian beer. Four seasonal menus offer specialities such as beef rolls stuffed with gherkins, while game dishes feature during winter. A light lunch menu and delicious cakes are also on offer.

Open: Mon & Tues 5.30pm-midnight; Weds-Sat noon-midnight; Sun noon-11pm (hours may vary)

Stein’s Location 56 High Street, Kingston, KT1 1HN t: 0844 502 2750 w: www.stein-s.com/kingston e: [email protected]

German

£22to

£32

MVThe focus is on fi esta at Dos Bandidos Mexican restaurant, earning it a reputation as the place to party. To fi re up the celebration, choose from an impressive range of cocktails at very reasonable prices. Alternatively, crack open a Mexican beer, share a jug of Sangria, or splash out on a bottle of bubbly. The extensive menu showcases the great range of delicious food that Mexico is famous for: nachos, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas, tortillas, burritos – everything you could hope for is there. You can also tuck into hearty steaks, seafood specialities, barbecue dishes and burgers, or opt for a healthy basket salad. Dos Bandidos has a great range of themed evenings throughout the week and also offers fabulous birthday promotions; book a party for nine or more people and the birthday boy or girl dines for free. Check out their website for details, then spice up your day with a visit to Dos Bandidos.


Dos Bandidos Location 7-8 New Parade, London Road, Dorking, RH4 1RQ t: 0844 502 0863 w: www.dosbandidos.co.uk e: [email protected]

Mexican

*£15

GuAs you arrive at De Nada, you’ll be greeted by the warmth and conviviality that the Mediterranean is well known for. The name itself translates to ‘it’s nothing’, indicating that nothing is too much trouble for the friendly staff. We enjoyed sourdough laden with chopped tomato and salty Padron peppers, accompanied by a beer, while we studied the authentic tapas menu. We decided on crowd-pleasers of patatas bravas with alioli, and a Spanish tortilla for my vegetarian friend. I tucked into sumptuous king prawns in garlic and chilli and delicious crispy squid, while also delighting in the chef’s selection of authentic charcuterie meats and cheeses. Comprising chorizo, serrano ham and various Spanish cheeses, the detail was impeccable – even down to the fruity cubes of quince. A fi nal fl ourish of churros with chocolate sauce left us full to the brim and happily transported us to the tavernas of the Spanish coast. *Price represents the cost of three tapas dishes.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-3pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Fri noon-3pm, 5.30pm-11.30pm; Sat noon-11.30pm; Sun noon-4pm

De Nada Location 12a Market Street, Guildford, GU1 4LB t: 0844 502 9618 w: www.denadatapas.co.uk e: [email protected]

Tapas


£15to

£20

SERed Peppers not only serves up delicious dishes inspired by fl avours from around the globe, but it’ll transport you somewhere exotic, too, with its vibrant atmosphere and friendly service. Its diner-style decor with a rustic twist is lively and fun while being simultaneously informal and relaxed – the perfect place for families, large groups or couples.The menu has something for everyone too – it’s bursting with all the dishes you love made in Red Peppers’ own way. The starters include favourites like calamari, crispy potato skins and garlic mushrooms. The menu features regularly changing seasonal specials; my asparagus and grilled polenta special was packed with fl avour, the taste of the delicious pea and mint dressing lingering until our mains arrived. Pizzas topped with goat’s cheese and caramelised onion, or chicken with peppers, chorizo jam and pepperoni are hard to ignore, but the grill selection stands out. Spoilt for choice, I eventually plumped for

chicken souvlaki, which offered an authentic taste of Greece. For something more unusual, my partner selected coconut chilli chicken pasta, which had just the right balance of creaminess and spice. Portions are generous, but save room for dessert and choose from a selection of sundaes or perhaps a timeless classic like tiramisu. There’s a great value lunch time specials menu with sandwiches, salads and pizzettas, and a tempting breakfast menu on Saturday and Sunday, so there’s always something different on offer at Red Peppers.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-11.30pm

Red Peppers – Esher Location 45 High Street, Esher, KT10 9RL t: 0844 502 1481 w: www.red-peppers.co.uk

Mediterranean

£15to

£20

KiAs soon as we entered Red Peppers in Teddington, we knew we were in for a treat – it was fi lled with happy customers and the atmosphere was buzzing. Just like its sister restaurant in Esher, the Teddington branch is a lively, family-friendly venue with ambient lighting and lots of interesting memorabilia adorning the walls. There’s something interesting to see everywhere you look – including on the extensive menu, which features a melange of classic favourites and exciting new options to try.

We started with a sharing mezze plate comprising hummus, tzatziki, moreish halloumi, plump olives and garlic fl atbread. I then sampled the grilled sea bass fi llets with fennel, new potatoes, kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes and preserved lemons from the specialities section of the menu, while my friend enjoyed the vegetarian goat’s cheese pappardelle pasta in a creamy wild mushroom sauce. The portions were

generous to say the least, and everything was cooked to the highest standard. We also enjoyed a carafe of fruity Italian red wine with our meal and couldn’t resist ending the experience with the waiter’s recommendation of the famous boozy tiramisu. The recipe has been lovingly passed down for over 25 years, and it was very good indeed.

Having clocked with envy the many tasty-looking dishes being served to diners at other tables, I’ll certainly be back with the family in tow to sample more of Red Peppers’ globally inspired fare.


Red Peppers Location 53 Broad Street, Teddington, TW11 8QZ t: 0844 502 1479 w: www.red-peppers.co.uk

Mediterranean

Surrey Guide 201736


£15to

£20

KiIf you have something to celebrate, head to Bar Estilo in Teddington. It’s a lively and informal place, making it an ideal spot at which to gather friends and family to mark a birthday or other special occasion. Indeed, if you’ve no occasion in mind and just fancy catching up with friends over Sangria and tapas, Bar Estilo’s excellent food and service will make your visit a memorable one.

When we visited Bar Estilo, we were taken with the bright and contemporary decor, as well as the fantastic menu that offers a modern spin on classic Spanish dishes. The tapas menu lists an abundance of moreish morsels including octopus Galacian and lamb kofta with bulgur salad. Order just one or two for a light bite, or several to share if you want a hearty meal. I particularly recommend the Manchego cheese with chilli jam and herb fl atbread, and the lamb tagine with apricots and almonds. There are plenty of larger plates and grills on offer too – try the house speciality paella, or the grilled salmon fi llet with sweet potato mash and mango salsa.

The lively atmosphere at Bar Estilo also makes it a great setting in which to enjoy a few cocktails. The

Strawberry Margarita has set the standard that all cocktails I have in the future must now live up to.


Bar Estilo Location 44 Broad Street, Teddington, TW11 8QY t: 0844 502 1480 w: www.barestilo.co.uk e: [email protected]

Mediterranean

£22to

£32

SEThough only 25 minutes from London, the acres of woodland and lush grounds surrounding the Hilton Cobham make this hotel seem a world away. Get away from it all and discover a real treat in the form of their stunning premier restaurant, the Mediterranean Grill.

Finished in olive and aubergine tones, beautifully complemented by sumptuous leather and textured fabrics, the interior presents a decorative feast for the senses. Enjoy pre-dinner drinks in the contemporary, well-stocked bar before progressing into a dining area that’s divided into several parts, with intimate booths and atmospheric pendant lighting. The Mediterranean Grill serves simple grilled dishes inspired by the cuisine of southern Europe, with a nod to cuisine from North Africa and the Middle East too. The likes of spicy harissa chicken skewers and fried calamari with aioli sauce make admirable starters. Delicious main-course options such

as braised lamb shoulder with soft polenta and vegetables are sure to please the palate, as is the fruits de mer linguine, which comes in a fragrant Provençal sauce. Whatever you choose, you can be sure of fresh, enlivening fl avours on every plate. Elsewhere in the hotel, the Lounge Bar offers light bites, fresh pastries and sandwiches, and between 2pm and 5.30pm guests can look forward to traditional afternoon tea. There’s also breakfast served daily, and al fresco dining on the outside terrace during summer months.

Open: Mon-Sat 7am-11pm; Sun 7am-10pm

Hilton Cobham Location Seven Hills Road, Cobham, KT11 1EW t: 0844 502 1487 w: www.cobham.hilton.com e: [email protected]

Mediterranean


£25to

£40

SEAt Meejana, the focus is on serving wholesome dishes, which are made to order using fresh herbs and high-quality ingredients. This commitment to offering visitors an exemplary dining experience has led Meejana to establish a dedicated fan base. Patrons return time and again to sample the mezze platters, smoothies and range of wraps, as well as main dishes like sea bass tagine and lamb meatballs in a spicy tomato sauce. Vegetarians needn’t worry about missing out, with plenty of mezze options to choose from including grilled halloumi, spinach-fi lled pastries and falafel. The talented kitchen team ensures every dish is cooked and seasoned to perfection, and also presented beautifully. Traditional Lebanese desserts like baklava and rum baba ensure guests leave fully satisfi ed.

In addition to being knowledgeable about food, the owners of Meejana are wine experts, so they offer an exceptional selection of Old and New World varietals,

with a good portion of these hailing from Lebanon.

A meal at Meejana is completed by the warm and friendly service and the inviting decor, with the restaurant lit by chandeliers and candlelight and tables topped with beautiful Lebanese tablecloths. So, whether you’re after a romantic meal for two or are celebrating a special occasion with a large group, Meejana can more than accommodate.

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-4pm (last orders 3pm)

Meejana Location 49 Church Street, Weybridge, KT13 8DG t: 0844 502 9320 w: www.meejana.com e: [email protected]

Lebanese

£28to

£45

KiIt’s been over two years since Le Salon Privé was renamed, and this charming French restaurant has since established itself as a fi rm favourite on Surrey’s culinary scene, offering exquisite French cuisine in gorgeous surroundings. The immaculate teal and marble exterior hints at the elegance inside this eatery; you’ll fi nd tasteful decor, with wooden fl oors and stunning stained-glass windows that cast beautiful patterns onto the linen tablecloths when the sun shines.Guests will be spoilt for choice when deciding upon a delectable dish from the à la carte menu, which is laden with mouth-watering options. Hors d’oeuvres include the likes of decadent scallop Carpaccio with broad bean purée, caviar and Champagne sauce, and salt-cured duck foie gras, enhanced by cocoa crumble and watermelon. Mains are equally delicious and ample in their variety, with options including roasted wood pigeon served with swede purée, fi g chutney and mustard sauce, and pan-fried skate wing accompanied by samphire and vierge

sauce. There’s also a separate vegetarian menu with the likes of rice galette, ratatouille and goat’s cheese croquettes. The menu du jour offers exceedingly good value, especially when you consider the high-quality produce showcased. With two courses for £16.50 or three for £20, this sumptuous dining experience is designed to suit all palates and budgets. For a special occasion, why not book one of Le Salon Privé’s private dining areas? Beautifully decorated, they are the ideal spot for cosy get-togethers, parties and work dinners.

Open: Tues-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10pm; Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sat 10am-5pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Sun 10am-5pm

Le Salon Privé Location 43 Crown Road, St Margarets, Nr. Twickenham, TW1 3EJ t: 0844 502 9624 w: www.lesalonprive.net e: [email protected]

French

Surrey Guide 201738


£26to

£38

TaLes Routiers’ 2016 Restaurant of the Year, Chez Vous has earned itself a stellar reputation for its fantastic food, great atmosphere and friendly service – so much so that it has received a Certifi cate of Excellence from TripAdvisor for two years in a row. If the glowing reviews and recommendations left by contented visitors time and again are anything to go by, this restaurant shows no signs of slowing down.

Set in the pretty village of Warlingham, Chez Vous is run by Martin Bradley and Laurant Pacaud, whose French style of cooking is strongly rooted in the use of excellent British ingredients. Expect to see starters like feuilleté of seared king scallops, wilted spinach and sherry vinegar beurre blanc, and decadent main courses such as duo of slow-cooked pork belly and pancetta-rolled saddle of venison with parsnip purée and juniper sauce. To fi nish, enjoy profi teroles fi lled with peach parfait and drizzled with luxurious hot chocolate sauce. As with any French restaurant

worth its salt, the wine list is exceptional.

The eight bedrooms have recently been refurbished to the highest standard and are comfortable and stylish in equal measure. Just ten miles from London, Chez Vous is the perfect place to get away from the big smoke for a relaxing break, or indeed a peaceful haven from which to explore all the capital has to offer.

Open: Tues-Sat noon-2.30pm, 7pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-2.30pm

Chez Vous Location 432 Limpsfi eld Road, Warlingham, CR6 9LA t: 0844 502 1543 w: www.chezvous.co.uk e: [email protected]

French

£25to

£35

RBFor over 30 years, La Barbe has been satisfying Surrey’s Francophiles with superb French cuisine and an ambience to match. Already one of the region’s leading French restaurants, La Barbe’s popularity is set to soar even further this year thanks to the appointment of a new head chef, Patrick Brandao. He brings with him a wealth of experience, having worked alongside celebrated chefs and at acclaimed restaurants on both sides of the pond.

Patrick promises diners exquisite French fl avours; Brandao takes traditional French cooking and injects a contemporary twist, using the fi nest ingredients possible. He relies heavily on sourcing the best produce, so designs seasonal menus that change to incorporate top-quality produce from local farms and fi elds, and the latest catch from the coast. The rich and varied wine list has choices to satisfy the oenophile and novice alike, with something to complement every delicious dish on the menu.

The team behind La Barbe knows that French dining is synonymous with style, but they also pride

themselves on providing a dining experience in a relaxed, welcoming setting. You’ll fi nd crisp lemon tablecloths on tables adorned with fresh fl owers, and service that is second to none. Head to La Barbe for all of the charm of France without having to cross The Channel.

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

La Barbe Location 71 Bell Street, Reigate, RH2 7AN t: 0844 502 2136 w: www.labarbe.co.uk e: [email protected]

French


£25to

£35

KiTucked down a side street, La Buvette was bustling on the balmy summer evening we visited, and is obviously well loved. This French bistro has been wowing locals since 2004. The outside marquee-covered terrace is the perfect place for an intimate al fresco dinner, while inside, cosy alcoves and fl ickering candles add to the relaxed atmosphere. French staff present a short but varied menu that includes a prix-fi xe three-course menu and a dish of the day. The salmon ceviche with asparagus mousse to start was pronounced excellent. My companion followed with onglet steak – a house speciality – served with thin frites and lamb’s lettuce dressed salad, and I chose the socca – a thick pancake topped with chargrilled vegetables. Both were excellently executed, my vegetables being perfectly cooked. An extensive French wine list, with many varieties available by the glass, only adds to the pleasure.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-3pm, 5.45pm-10pm (last orders)

La Buvette Location 6 Church Walk, Richmond, TW9 1SN t: 0844 502 1139 w: www.labuvette.co.uk e: [email protected]

French

*£15

to£35

SWSituated on the Basingstoke Canal, Bellini offers a little taste of Italy right on your doorstep. The al fresco seating area, which boasts plenty of seating and a colourful border of plants and foliage, makes for an enticing welcome indeed. The vast menu offers Italian classics with something for every palate and every pocket. Plump for an indulgent dish of fettuccine aragosta – the delicious pasta is topped with a fresh half lobster, in a white wine sauce of fresh clams, prawns, garlic and chilli. Pizza-lovers are also well catered for, and we thoroughly recommend the calzone with mushrooms, ham, blue cheese and black olives. Complement your meal with a glass of wine and round things off with a rich Italian coffee. The authentic fare is enough to make you feel as though you’ve been whisked away to the sunny Mediterranean, but the service adds another level of Italian charm. *Price range represents the cost of a starter and a main course.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11.30pm

Bellini Location 8-10 Hermitage Road, Woking, GU21 8TB t: 0844 502 9578 w: www.bellinirestaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

*£8to

£16

SECombining the best parts of a coffee shop and a restaurant, it’s easy to see why L’Affamato’s loyal clientele have returned time and time again, bringing with them friends, family and colleagues along the way. With a stylish exterior and a magnifi cent menu, it understandably appeals to many, including East Molesey’s most fervent foodies. Call in to this charming Italian eatery for a breakfast of perfectly cooked eggs, or perhaps a more Continental start to the day comprising of croissants with ham and cheese. At lunch, you’ll fi nd the same top quality, with the likes of hearty hot sandwiches alongside lunchtime classics like jacket potatoes laden with tasty toppings. You’ll also fi nd plenty of pizza and pasta dishes, whether you pop in for lunch, or for dinner on Friday and Saturday when they present a broad evening menu. As they are not licensed, you can bring your own alcohol to accompany your dinner. Visit their Facebook page for more information. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Open: Tues-Thurs 9am-6pm; Fri & Sat 9am-6pm, 6.30pm-10pm

L’Affamato Location 43 Walton Road, East Molesey, KT8 0DH t: 0844 502 9671

Italian

Surrey Guide 201740


£20to

£30

SE

Delivering authentic Neapolitan food to the Runnymede riverside is the inspired idea behind Italian Concept. From the moment the aroma of garlic suffuses the senses and you see the wood-fi red pizza oven burning as you step inside, it’s easy to be swept away to the shores of Italy. Washed with terracotta and sunlit by charming leaded windows, Italian Concept is where owners Luca, Francesco and Diego, who is also head chef, host a Mediterranean dining experience faithful to their roots.We began with octopus-topped bruschetta, perfectly pan-seared king prawns, and succulent squid. This was followed by montanare, a Neapolitan speciality of garlic-fl avoured pillows of dough, along with arancini balls bursting with fl avour. Our Margherita pizza arrived next and did not disappoint. The dough is given 24 hours to prove before cooking to afford it the perfect consistency when you tuck in. Our chosen pasta dish was exquisite ravioli fl avoured with pancetta and mushroom, and enhanced with shavings of decadent

truffl e. The meal ended with a sumptuous summer fruit panna cotta which was light and fresh. The team cites a genuine love of food as the key to their success. A passion for the recipes and cooking styles of their native Naples is clearly evident at Italian Concept.

Open: Tues-Thurs 9.30am-9pm; Fri & Sat 9.30am-10pm; Sun & Bank Holidays 10.30am-4pm

Italian Concept Location Skytes Meadow, Windsor Road, Runnymede, Egham, TW20 0AE t: 0844 502 9585 w: www.italianconceptrestaurant.com e: offi [email protected]

Italian

*£8to

£12

SWCafé Class’s motto is ‘quantity, quality and value for money’, and visitors get just that when they make the trip to Woking. Cosy and consistently popular, this sleek eatery offers fresh and tasty Italian food. The team has a penchant for hearty portions and some of the fi nest seafood around. With their own deli on-site, a variety of Mediterranean specialities such as prosciutto di San Daniele and pecorino Romano – a mature cheese made with sheep’s milk – are available around the clock for the kitchen staff to utilise and customers to purchase individually. The seafood has its own dedicated deli counter, allowing guests to see how fresh everything is. A meal here wouldn’t be complete without an authentic and decadent Italian dessert. Cannoli, cassata and freshly made Sicilian pastries offer a perfect conclusion to a sumptuous supper.If there’s one thing that goes hand in hand with great Italian cuisine, it’s exceptional wine. The team at Café Class takes pride in their range of hand-selected wine, with a mission

to offer unusual Italian and Mediterranean grapes to those looking for something new to try. Picpoul de Pinet, Greco di Tufo, and Dolcetto d’Alba are all on offer, with a complimentary tapas service allowing guests to enjoy the wine alongside its perfect accompaniment. With the New Victoria Theatre just around the corner, Café Class is the ideal spot for a pre-show meal. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-3pm, 5.30pm-11pm

Café Class Location 14 The Broadway, Woking, GU21 5AP t: 0844 502 9630 w: www.cafe-class.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian


£28to

£30

SECasa Nova, positioned amid a quaint parade of shops in the heart of Virginia Water, boasts a modern and spacious interior, complemented by a warm welcome and traditional service. This delightful restaurant delivers the very best traditional and contemporary Italian cuisine.

Start with the classic bruschetta al pomodoro and move on to the diffi cult choice of pasta, pesce or carne. The tagliatelle al salmone comprises a sauce of fresh smoked salmon, brandy, dill and cream intertwined with ribbons of pasta. The sea bass, fi lleted and pan-fried in white wine, fresh lime, rosemary butter and parsley, is a delicate feast of Mediterranean fl avours, beautifully offset by a portion of fried courgettes. Meat-lovers are treated to the likes of fegato alla salvia, which presents a rich serving of calf’s liver with white wine, butter and sage, while vegetarians can enjoy tempting dishes such as penne primavera –

pasta tubes with a delicious concoction of sundried tomato, broccoli, olive oil, garlic, chilli and pine nuts.

An excellent Sunday lunch menu sees a three-course feast at superb value for money. There is also a delicious two-course lunch menu served throughout the rest of the week, offering more of the same mouth-watering cuisine. Each menu rotates every week, providing variety for those return visits you are sure to make. Casa Nova is simply splendido.

Open: Sun-Fri noon-2pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sat 6.30pm-10pm

Casa Nova Location 10 Station Approach, Virginia Water, GU25 4DW t: 0844 502 1509 w: www.casa-nova-restaurant.co.uk

Italian

£15to

£25

MVRialto Lounge blends a relaxed, bohemian vibe with a vintage, romantic feel. It’s a great place to frequent whether you’re looking for a romantic evening meal, or are looking for a bit of entertainment, as the restaurant regularly hosts live music and tribute acts.

Rialto Lounge’s menu is brimming with wholesome Continental options. There’s something to suit all appetites and palates, and also plenty of choice for those with dietary requirements.

To begin, the cozze marinara – or mussels sautéed in garlic, chilli and white wine and coated in fresh pomodoro sauce – were tender and delicious, and the delicate fl avours were matched perfectly by a glass of Sicilian Insolia. If you’re in any doubt about wine matching during your meal, ask for the consummate bar professional Tim, who will select the best variety for you with, refreshingly,

no overblown pomp and ceremony. Our meal continued with perfectly cooked pan-fried duck breast in rich red wine, honey and peppercorn sauce, accompanied by seasonal vegetables and mash. I was delighted by dessert; the owners tempted me with some of their wonderful eight-time-award-winning homemade ice cream, which is made two doors down in Gelato Rialto. I opted for a scoop of banoffee, and another of the 80 per cent Ecuadorian cocoa. Much like this glamorous little getaway in general, it’s not to be missed.

Open: Mon-Sun 11.30am-11pm

Rialto Lounge Location 33 South Street, Dorking, RH4 2JZ t: 0844 502 0860 w: www.rialtolounge.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

Surrey Guide 201742


£20to

£40

KiItalian food is known for being comforting and full of simple, fresh fl avours, and the Italian approach to dining is one of the most sociable eating experiences there is, centred around family and friends. While still maintaining an authentic convivial vibe, A Cena offers a new and exciting take on the Italian mealtime, with contemporary surroundings and a suitably modern menu to match.A Cena has been impressing diners with its freshly cooked, stylishly presented Italian cuisine for the last 11 years. The experienced head chef, Nicola, creates a seasonally changing selection of dishes using quality, fresh ingredients. Visit for an informal light lunch of polenta fritters with tomato, spinach and Parmesan, or treat yourself to a three-course evening feast, starting with a glass of chilled Prosecco or one of the fabulously fruity cocktails. Then sample the likes of barbecued mackerel fi llet with sweet pickled cucumber and sour cream or buffalo mozzarella with spicy sausage, marinated black olives and cime di rapa with fennel seeds, before tucking into pan-fried calf’s liver with pancetta, sage, lemon

and braised lettuce with spring onions. Alternatively, opt for grilled Scottish rib-eye with rocket, lemon and fried potatoes with chilli and smoked sea salt. Finish off with palate-cleansing lemon sorbet with Prosecco, or Florentine doughnuts with raspberry sauce. You might think you know what Italian food is all about, but A Cena might just show you a new, more elegant side to this much-loved cuisine.

Open: Mon 6.30pm-9.30pm; Tues-Sat noon-2pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-2pm

A Cena Location 418 Richmond Road, Twickenham, TW1 2EB t: 0844 502 1496 w: www.acena.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

£20to

£30

SCThis family-run restaurant in Croydon’s popular restaurant quarter is bright, characterised by clean lines and a chic interior, and offers a little slice of Italy in the suburbs. It is run by three brothers who have over 60 years of combined experience – here, diners are in safe hands.

Tre Fratelli is the perfect venue for lunch, whether with business colleagues or friends. It boasts a generous menu of Italian and Sicilian classics, including a range of fresh pizzas and classic pasta dishes, many of which can be ordered as a starter. We were spoilt for choice by the lunchtime menu, eventually opting to start by sharing antipasti della casa, with its cured meats and succulent prawns. To follow I opted for risotto della nonna, which carried with it the aromas and the authentic fl avours of Italy. It was fi lled with tender pieces of chicken, wonderfully paired with earthy mushrooms and plump cherry tomatoes. Meanwhile, my wife enjoyed cozze al vino bianco – fresh mussels in a moreish white wine, lemon and

garlic sauce. We were both thoroughly impressed with our dishes.

Dessert was impossible to resist. While my partner enjoyed strawberry cheesecake, I sampled a little bit of Italian joy and went for the affogato: a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream bathed in bittersweet espresso. Delizioso.

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

Tre Fratelli Location 25-29 South End, Croydon, CR0 1BE t: 0844 502 0883 w: www.tre-fratelli.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian


£18to

£23

KiAl Forno is a family-run restaurant. The menu showcases authentic Italian fare, made using recipes that have been passed down from generation to generation. Such dedication to traditional Italian fl avours has garnered Al Forno a loyal following, and numerous accolades too.

The atmosphere at Al Forno is that of a trattoria, thanks to the lively buzz created by happy diners, the simple decor and the ample outdoor seating. The restaurant’s appeal continues through to the menu, where the likes of meatballs in garlic sauce and fresh bruschetta prove the perfect way to whet your appetite. To follow, choose from mouth-watering dishes like bruschetta accompanied by homemade Italian pork and fennel sausages and friarelli. Alternatively, if you’re a fan of seafood, the red Sicilian prawns atop homemade tagliolini, and scallops gratinati are great choices. The pizzas at Al Forno have gained critical acclaim, with topping combinations including prosciutto and mushrooms, tomato and

chorizo, and spinach with garlic, Parmesan and an egg. Traditional Italian desserts such as tiramisu and hazelnut semifreddo mean your visit to this charming restaurant will end on a sweet note.

If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion, why not host it at Al Forno? The venue can be privately hired and the experienced team will happily take care of all of the details.

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

Al Forno Kingston Location 1-3a Townsend Parade, High Street, Kingston, KT1 1LY t: 0844 502 1156 w: www.alfornokingston.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

£26to

£40

RBDining settings don’t come much nicer than Spaghetti Tree. The whole length of this bright and airy restaurant has fabulous views across a lake that was as busy with wildfowl as the dining room was with customers on the day we visited. The maître d’ Dana made us feel instantly welcome and set about recommending delicious-sounding dishes from the tempting menu. My classic Parma ham and melon starter was tasty and refreshing, with lots of sweet fruit and smoky ham.

My partner opted for penne messinese, one of the many pasta dishes that can be enjoyed as a starter. It came with garden-fresh spinach, peas and broccoli in garlicky tomato sauce with just a hint of chilli – she loved it. A main of vitello saltimbocca was also stunning, comprising melt-in-the-mouth pan-fried veal layered with Parma ham and sage. The sole fi llet was grilled to perfection, letting the fl avours of this delicate fi sh shine through, complemented

wonderfully by light, tangy tartare sauce. A plate of zucchini fritti was the perfect accompaniment to both our dishes.

A slice of cassata – a traditional dessert of vanilla and chocolate ice cream with candied fruit – and a chocolate and cinnamon pancake rounded off a wonderful meal. We can’t wait to return to this lovely family-run Sicilian restaurant in a dream of a setting – next time we’ll visit on Sunday, when children eat for free.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 6pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-2.30pm,6pm-11pm; Sun noon-3pm

Spaghetti Tree Location 1 Walton Street, Walton-on-the-Hill, Nr. Tadworth, KT20 7RW t: 0844 502 0865 w: www.spaghettitree.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

Surrey Guide 201744


£17to

£33

GuNestled just off the heart of Guildford’s historic High Street, Positano is an intimate gastronomic gem, offering diners simple Italian food at its very best. Whether you’re seeking drinks al fresco, a romantic meal in the stunning beamed restaurant, which dates back to 1631, or a function in the panelled dining room, Positano excels. A glance over the impressive menu indicates that this is no ordinary Italian restaurant, but a true Epicurean experience. Franco and his team are passionate about good food, and it shows in the fantastic selection of authentic dishes available on the set menu and specials.For starters we opted for the mouth-watering gamberoni Positano, a fantastic array of king prawns with white wine, garlic, parsley and fresh rocket, and also involtino di melanzana – mozzarella and Parma ham wrapped in aubergine with balsamic reduction and rocket salad. For our main course we enjoyed the truly delectable orata alla Sorrentina, fresh sea bream with sautéed spinach,

potato, calamari and white wine, sundried tomato and olive sauce, and the trofi ette alla norma, comprising handmade twisted pasta with swordfi sh in white wine and aubergine sauce.When it comes to puddings Positano doesn’t disappoint, and I can highly recommend the coppa pistachio e crema. Their signature tiramisu – a safely guarded top-secret recipe that takes three hours to prepare – is sublime. With an excellent selection of wine from across Italy, fantastic food and great service, Positano is not to be missed – buon appetito.

Open: Mon-Fri noon-2.45pm, 5.30pm-10.15pm; Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-9.30pm

Positano Location 124 High Street, Tunsgate, Guildford, GU1 3HQ t: 0844 502 0653 w: www.positano-restaurant.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

£16to

£29

GuThree basic principles are the governing tenets of Olivo’s impressive Italian cuisine. The fi rst ideal is that Fulvio and Nicky Bertani and their team of Italian chefs will only source and use quality, fresh ingredients; the second is that all dishes will be modern, exciting interpretations of classic recipes; the third ensures that everything Olivo does is rooted in Italy’s beloved traditional style of excellent food and warm service.Consider the menu carefully, as it will present you with the dilemma of having to choose between starters like smoked salmon, crab and mascarpone cheese terrine and beef Carpaccio with rocket, Parmesan and truffl e oil. Mains, such as trofi ette pasta with chicken and green beans in pesto sauce, and the pan-fried veal escalope in garlic, white wine, mushroom and cream sauce with oven-roasted rosemary potatoes, are more examples of dishes that you’ll have a tough choice deciding between, and even more so when you glance over the classic fl avour combinations present in the likes of the spinach and ricotta ravioli in creamy walnut sauce. There’s even a range of pizzas

and a chef’s specials board to peruse.Ask the friendly staff to recommend a wine pairing and they’ll be sure to oblige, artfully picking the best bottle and vintage from the extensive list of Italian varieties. Round the meal off with arguably the most fashionable Italian dessert, a gorgeous panna cotta, and you’ll come away with a full understanding of Olivo’s key beliefs.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-4.30pm, 5.30pm-10.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-10.30pm; Sun noon-9.30pm

Olivo Location 53 Quarry Street, Guildford, GU1 3UA t: 0844 502 2174 w: www.olivo.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian


Gu

£10to

£15

KiThe South East is home to numerous Franco Manca restaurants. We stopped by the Guildford restaurant and pulled up a pew by the open-plan kitchen, where we could see chefs busy working the famed sourdough that’s put Franco Manca on the culinary map. The slow-rising sourdough is made with a 200-year-old starter culture from Naples, which must be replenished every day. It takes 20-30 hours for the dough to rise, and from our table we could see the dough stacked in bespoke wooden Franco Manca crates, ready to be kneaded and stretched, covered with delicious toppings and blasted in the custom-made oven. The result is astounding: a thin and light pizza base with a soft and chewy crust. While our toppings of smoked buffalo and Franco & Lloyd mozzarella, artichokes, wild boar salami and truffl e and watercress were delicious, the dough itself was a treat on its own. My partner’s mozzarella, caramelised red onion, Colston Bassett Stilton, watercress, roasted

pine kernels and Gloucester Old Spot pancetta was equally delicious. The chefs were as Italian as they come, singing Neapolitan ballads as they bustled about the kitchen.

The accompanying selection of organic wine was both delicious and interesting. Like everything else, the team behind Franco Manca takes a personal approach to their wine, working directly with small organic wine producers in Italy.

Guildford Open: Sun-Thurs 11.30am-10pm; Fri & Sat 11.30am-11pm Wimbledon Open: Sun-Thurs 11.30am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11.30am-11.30pm

Franco Manca Location Friary Street, Guildford, GU1 4EH t: 0844 502 9330 Location 20 The Broadway, Wimbledon, SW19 1RE t: 0844 502 9331 w: www.francomanca.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

£20to

£50

RBIf you’re searching for a family-run business that boasts over 30 years of experience and serves fantastic Italian food to happy customers, look no further than Ciao Italia in Banstead. What started out as a humble coffee shop, situated on a corner at the heart of the village, has now blossomed into an ever-popular haunt for locals, as well as visitors from further afi eld.

Fresh from its recent refurbishment, Ciao Italia’s decor is bright and attractive. Neutral colours make for a comfortable dining experience while accents of yellow call to mind the sunshine of the Mediterranean.

The team at Ciao Italia takes pride in using high-quality produce, with many suppliers being used from the restaurant’s inception. Sumptuous steaks and fresh, fl avoursome fi sh are key components of the menu. Sautéed king prawns served with garlic, wine and chilli, and pan-fried sea bass with creamy mashed

potato, samphire and salsa verde are just a couple of the undoubtedly delicious dishes that come very highly recommended. The set menu represents great value, with two courses priced at £14.50.

To accompany the delightful menu is plenty of Italian wine, as well as a selection of specialist gin and cocktails, and soft drinks for your party’s teetotallers. Be sure to check out the monthly jazz nights hosted at Ciao Italia, as well as the regular DJ sets at their sister venue, Caffe Italia, just a couple of doors down.

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

Ciao Italia Location 45 High Street, Banstead, SM7 2NH t: 0844 502 9650 w: www.ciaoitalia.co.uk e: [email protected]

Italian

Surrey Guide 201746


*£6to£9

KiWhen Jo and George opened the Pickled Pantry in 2012, it was with the dream of creating a café with a home-from-home atmosphere. Ask any member of their dedicated following and they’ll agree that the duo has succeeded in this regard – and then some. The menu encompasses breakfast, brunch and lunch, with the likes of homemade pecan granola with Greek yoghurt and honey, and eggs Benedict with freshly made Hollandaise vying for your attention. Alternatively, why not begin your day with an indulgent treat of fl uffy vanilla breakfast pancakes topped with seasonal fruit and maple syrup? Cakes are a speciality of the dedicated kitchen team, and are defi nitely worth sampling with a loose-leaf tea or cup of coffee made from locally roasted beans. Every month, the café hosts an evening pop-up restaurant – check out their website for more information. *Price range represents the cost of a sandwich and a drink.

Open: Mon-Fri 7am-5.30pm; Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 9am-4pm

Pickled Pantry Location 7 St Mark’s Hill, Surbiton, KT6 4PJ t: 0844 502 9407 w: www.pickledpantry.co.uk e: [email protected]

Café

*£8to

£12

KiConveniently located in Kingston, Cakewalk Patisserie & Coffee House offers a fantastic range of homemade goodies, including desserts, pastries, cakes, salads and sandwiches, all of which are handmade or freshly baked. Executive patisserie chef Elif baked for the Four Seasons hotel for many years and uses fresh and organic ingredients to ensure that each bake is equally scrumptious. The friendly and welcoming venue serves speciality tea and award-winning coffee, and many diners have dubbed it the best coffee in town. If you have the opportunity to try the mango cheesecake, you’ll note that it’s perfectly light, deliciously fresh and beautifully presented. Offering a bespoke service, the team can effortlessly cater for all of your special occasions including birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, baby showers and corporate events. *Price range represents the cost of a coffee and a snack.

Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 9am-4pm

Cakewalk Patisserie & Coffee House Location 131 Richmond Road, Kingston, KT2 5BZ t: 0844 502 9675 w: www.cakewalkkingston.com e: [email protected]

Café

*£8to

£15

RBLocated in the heart of Stoneleigh, June 8 Café & Bistro is a friendly local hub serving delicious food and drink. Coffee-lovers will be pleased with the top-notch brews on offer, which can be accompanied by a range of delectable homemade cakes. Visit for brunch and try the excellent eggs Benedict or Croque Madame, or pop in for lunch and choose from a selection of fantastic Mediterranean dishes, panini, salads and seasonal daily specials. On Friday and Saturday evenings the café stays open and serves tapas and small plates, including Manchego croquettes with quince jam. The café is fully licensed so you can enjoy a tipple with your tapas. Despite only opening in late 2016, June 8 has already established itself as Stoneleigh’s go-to spot for tasty homemade fare, and is proving very popular with all who visit.*Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Open: Mon, Weds & Thurs 8am-5pm; Fri 8am-9pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 9am-3pm

June 8 Café & Bistro Location 53 Stoneleigh Broadway, Epsom, KT17 2HP t: 0208 393 4171 w: www.june8.uk e: [email protected]

Café


£12to

£15

SWHoused within The Lightbox gallery and museum in Woking is SEASONS Café & Kitchen. It is run by The Tipsy Pigs, a catering company known for its homemade, wholesome food.

The team has brought this ethos of serving healthy cuisine made using seasonal ingredients to the bright and charming SEASONS Café & Kitchen. The talented head chef also champions the use of Surrey’s natural larder, and is skilled at using local produce to create restaurant-quality dishes in the relaxed café setting. Tempting options might include specials like warm salad of sea trout in the spring, and braised venison come autumn. Thanks to the café’s convivial surrounds, relaxed atmosphere and relationship with The Lightbox, it’s the perfect place to catch up with friends over lunch, enjoy a drink in the sun from the café’s canalside courtyard or indulge in brunch at the weekend. Everyone is welcome and there is a dedicated kid’s menu

and kid’s corner play set so parents can enjoy a coffee in peace. The café is now open six days a week (Tuesday to Sunday) and is open late every Thursday alongside regular live comedy and fi lm club events at The Lightbox. See their website for further details.

The Tipsy Pigs are a creative catering team that specialises in making people happy through beautiful food and drinks. They run a VW Campervan Cocktail Bar, and if you need catering for a special event, pop into the café or get in touch.

Open: Tues & Weds 10am-4.30pm; Thurs 10am-9pm; Fri & Sat 10am-4.30pm

SEASONS Café & Kitchen Location The Lightbox, Chobham Road, Woking, GU21 4AA t: 0844 502 9307 w: www.thetipsypigs.co.uk e: [email protected]

Café

*£8to

£15

Ki

Locals are familiar with The French Table in Surbiton and its splendid reputation. Next door, The French Tarte is the fi rst of the same team’s café ventures. It is cosy and authentic with tables outside as well as indoors. The coffees and sweet treats are impeccable and the smell of fresh bread, baked on the premises, permeates the surrounding streets. Having opened further venues of the same name in Teddington and the nearby Victoria Recreation Ground, The French Tarte’s popularity and appreciation from its local community is clear. We sampled breakfast favourites of stacked bacon omelette and a delicious croque madame, which were absolutely divine. We also ordered a portion of frites, which came with authentically French homemade mayonnaise, and a colourful collection of house salads. After our fantastic meal, we fi nished our refreshing pineapple and mango smoothies, watched the world go by, and happily fantasised that we were

in a Parisian bistro, just without the hustle and bustle of the capital city. To extend our stay, we made our coffee and cakes last as long as possible, savouring every bite of creamy coconut and lime mousse and a strawberry tartlet bursting with freshness. Afternoon teas are a must at the Surbiton and Teddington sites, but you must book ahead to avoid disappointment. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Surbiton Open: Mon-Fri 8am-5pm; Sat & Sun 9am-5pmTeddington Open: Mon 8.30am-4pm;Tues-Fri 8.30am-5pm; Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm

The French Tarte Location 83 Maple Road, Surbiton, KT6 4AW t: 0844 502 9576 Location 45 High Street, Teddington, TW11 8HA t: 0844 502 9579 w: www.thefrenchtarte.co.uk e: [email protected]

Café

Surrey Guide 201748


*£8to

£12

GuDescribed by many as the heartbeat of Shalford, The Snooty Fox provides its loyal following with delicious breakfasts and lunches of all shapes and sizes. Fox-shaped lampshades illuminate the venue, and a green interior combined with wooden furniture lend a natural ambience.Start your day with a cooked breakfast, which comprises two rashers of bacon, sausage, baked beans, an egg cooked to your liking, grilled tomato, a hash brown, and a slice of white or granary toast. Vegetarians are also catered for with a breakfast that includes grilled halloumi. Those who prefer something a little lighter might plump for Snooty’s crunchy granola with natural yoghurt, or American-style blueberry pancakes topped with maple syrup and crispy bacon. If you’re stopping by for a midday meal with friends, family or even by yourself, you’ll fi nd a wonderful selection of lunches and light bites. Both the rustic three-cheese macaroni and the goulash soup are ideal for escaping those wintery winds, while the salmon fi shcake served with a rocket salad and yoghurt and dill dressing

provides a superb summer snack. A children’s menu allows visitors of all ages to enjoy the great food on offer, and the drinks menu boasts a plentiful list of coffee and tea, as well as freshly squeezed orange juice. *Price range represents the cost of a meal and a drink.

Open: Mon-Fri 6.45am-4.30pm; Sat & Sun 8am-4.30pm

The Snooty Fox Location 3-5 Kings Road, Shalford, Nr. Guildford, GU4 8JU t: 0844 502 9515 w: www.thesnootyfox.uk e: [email protected]

Café

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£8to

£12

WaIt’s hard to fi nd an eatery more quintessentially English than Cromwell Coffee House on Cranleigh’s High Street. Dating from 1560, the exterior has the charm of a country cottage, with dormer windows and a porch over the front door, as well as a pretty patio garden for fi ner weather. The interior boasts wooden beams and an attractive inglenook fi replace, lending a warm and cosy ambience to this 16th-century building. The food is equally traditional and includes delicious breakfasts, quiches, soups and salads, with many gluten-free options available. Wine and beer are also on offer. The Cromwell cream tea is the bee’s knees, and those looking for something less sweet can opt for the savoury version, which includes a homemade cheese scone, a wedge of Cheddar and a choice of chutney, as well as tea or coffee. Service is friendly and effi cient, making a visit to Cromwell Coffee House a thoroughly delightful experience.

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm (hours vary seasonally, please see website for details)

Cromwell Coffee House Location 97 High Street, Cranleigh, GU6 8AU t: 0844 502 0843 w: www.cromwellcoffeehouse.co.uk e: [email protected]

Café

*£13

MVWith a long-standing friendship and a passion for all things vintage, Debs and Tracey are the proud owners of Gorgeous Gerties. It’s a tearoom as well as a gift shop, meaning it’s a great place to frequent whether you’re looking for a pretty gift or somewhere charming to catch up with friends while nibbling a delicious treat. To sate your appetite, the menu features light breakfast and lunch options, as well as traditional afternoon tea and cream teas, and a great range of coffee, tea, cold drinks, fresh fruit smoothies and milkshakes. If you opt for the afternoon tea, prepare to be impressed, as fi nger sandwiches, homemade cakes and, of course, scones with jam and cream are delivered on a beautiful cake stand alongside your choice of tea. Children’s parties can be held at Gorgeous Gerties with the package including a children’s version of afternoon tea with sweets from their retro sweet range and a craft activity to suit the party’s theme. *Price represents the cost of afternoon tea.

Open: Mon-Fri 10am-4.30pm; Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 11am-4pm

Gorgeous Gerties Location 61 West Street, Dorking, RH4 1BS t: 0844 502 9335 w: www.gorgeousgerties.co.uk e: [email protected]

Tearoom

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Surrey Guide 201750


*£7to

£15

TaFrom the outside, The Green Rooms blends seamlessly into the charming village of Godstone. But step through the door and prepare to be pleasantly surprised by the eclectic furnishings – there’s bunting strung from the beams, shelves lined with delicate china and plastic fi gurines, and a comedic sign that warns parents that children left unattended will be sold to the circus. Everything on the mouth-watering menu is made to order. This includes the steak ciabatta, all-day breakfast and eggs Benedict – which is so delicious, it’s developed a dedicated following of its own. For those with a sweet-tooth, the decadent chocolate brownie is a must, though the great range of cakes is also worth sampling. Flavour combinations include banana and white chocolate, lemon drizzle, and courgette, lime and pistachio cake. Dairy- and gluten-free options are available, and savoury dishes can also be adapted to suit dietary requirements as everything is freshly made. The drinks offering is varied, and ranges from bubble tea and

blooming teas to frothy coffees and frappes. For something refreshing, The Green Rooms also serves milkshakes and a plethora of soft drinks. In addition to its great reputation, this unique tearoom was named the best tea/coffee shop in 2015 at the Surrey Life Food and Drink Awards, and was recently nominated in the 2017 time & leisure Food & Drink Awards. With its warm atmosphere, delicious fare and friendly service, it’s easy to see why this place is so well received. *Price range represents the cost of lunch.

Open: Mon & Tues 9am-5pm; Thurs & Fri 9am-5pm; Sat & Sun 9.30am-5pm

The Green Rooms Location Needles Bank, Godstone, RH9 8DZ t: 0844 502 9417 w: www.greenroomsofgodstone.co.uk

Tearoom

£18to

£28

WaNestled in the idyllic village of Shottermill, The Mill is the perfect destination for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life. The mock Tudor exterior gives an instant feel of traditionalism, as do the exposed beams inside. Horse-riding paraphernalia adorns one feature wall, strategically placed beside the stable door, further emphasising the venue’s countryside surroundings.

Guests can expect an extensive seasonal menu, which features the likes of salt and pepper squid with sweet chilli and mango salsa, a kedgeree fi shcake served with garden peas, and pan-fried sea bass fi llets with stir-fried chilli, ginger and spring onion, providing fresh fl avours during the summer months. Among these dishes, you’ll also fi nd essential British staples such as fi sh and chips, and a bacon and cheese burger served with onion rings. A stand-out feature of The Mill is its dedicated gluten-free menu. Vegetarians are also suitably catered for. With a wealth of options, nobody has to miss out on the truly wonderful food on offer. Choose from drinks aplenty, with a barista-trained team on-hand to serve a variety of hot drinks to your taste. In addition, Wadworth

beer and ale is available on tap alongside an impressive wine list.

Bar Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-11pm; Fri 11.30am-11.30pm; Sat noon-11.30pm; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Weds noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9pm; Thurs-Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-8pm

The Mill Location Liphook Road, Shottermill, Nr. Haslemere, GU27 3QE t: 0844 502 9517 w: www.themillhaslemere.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional


£20to

£30

MVSet just over a mile from Box Hill’s famous viewing point, The Tree is well served by a rich network of National Trust trails and is accessed from a short, pretty drive through the Surrey hills.

The Tree’s bar is a cosy mix of alcoves and sofas, opening up into a spacious restaurant in a converted barn area, which fuses contemporary styling with eclectic antique furniture. Outside there’s a good-sized garden and a well-equipped children’s play area.

Since taking over The Tree in April 2017, new owners Liv and Glenn have set about strengthening the pub’s local ties, as evidenced on the thoughtfully curated menu. There’s a sharing board to start, with a generous selection of charcuterie meats, bread from Pearce’s Bakery in Bookham, and a chicken liver parfait that’s made in-house from scratch. A veggie board is available too, along with a range of starters including a daily soup choice and a poached duck egg with asparagus.

For mains, the lamb rump with summer vegetables and barley risotto came highly recommended by our attentive server and it did not disappoint. It was sliced, cooked to perfection and drizzled with a jus that hit just the right notes of red wine and mint. The Box Hill burger is nearly as tall as the landmark with which shares its name: it comes skewered with a steak knife, and is as fl avoursome as it is substantial.

Desserts are worth saving room for. Highlights include a daily changing crumble and a Knickerbocker Glory sundae, elegantly served in a Champagne glass.

The local theme continues on the drinks menu, with local brews regularly rotated into the selection of four real ales that are available on tap at any given time. There is also gin from two local distilleries – Gutsy Monkey in Dorking and Silent Pool in Guildford. All the reds, whites and rosés on the well-rounded wine list are available by the glass, so we were able to try three during our visit: a full, rich Pablo y Walter malbec, a peppery Franschloek Cellars shiraz and a smooth, subtle Paul Delane Chablis. Bubbly is also available by the bottle, ready for celebrations.

TraditionalThe Tree Location Boxhill Road, Tadworth, KT20 7PS t: 0844 502 9561 w: www.thetreeboxhill.co.uk e: [email protected]

Open: Mon-Fri noon-midnight; Sat 8.30am-midnight; Sun 8.30am-10.30pmFood Served: Tues-Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-7.30pm

Surrey Guide 201752


£15to

£20

TaAt The Bell Inn you’ll fi nd delicious fare, a great range of drinks, and a welcoming ambience. This is enhanced by the hospitable staff, who treat all who visit like old friends. Once you’ve been warmly welcomed, take a seat in the oak-beamed restaurant area, sink into a sofa, or bask in the sun on the patio with your canine companion. If you’re looking to imbibe, there are cask-conditioned ales on tap, wines available by the glass or bottle, and artisanal soft drinks to choose from. When it comes to the food, expect to have diffi culty choosing. Traditional favourites such as pie of the day and rib-eye steaks vie for your attention, alongside the likes of blackened salmon with avocado and tarragon salad. Vegetarians have plenty of options, including vegan chilli, spicy green lentil curry and the falafel burger. There is also a children’s menu for when you have hungry little ones in tow.


The Bell Inn Location Outwood Lane, Redhill, RH1 5PN t: 0844 502 9362 w: www.belloutwood.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£17to

£25

WaRegulars and fi rst-time visitors are all welcomed with open arms at The Wheatsheaf Inn. Those looking to quench their thirst will be pleased to hear that the venue is Cask Marque-accredited, and also offers a great range of cider, wine and spirits. After the day’s worries have melted away in the homely bar area, why not sate your appetite in the airy conservatory? The menu changes frequently in line with the produce available, though beloved classics will always feature in the selection. Choose from the likes of homemade lasagne, avocado and prawn salad, pie of the day, and open toasted sandwiches, before satisfying your sweet-tooth with apple and rhubarb crumble, or perhaps mixed berry Eton Mess. The talented kitchen team happily caters for dietary requirements, and there are plenty of vegetarian options. Little ones are more than catered for with the dedicated kids’ menu.

Open: Mon-Sat 11am-3pm, 6pm-11pm; Sun noon-7pm

The Wheatsheaf Inn Location Grayswood Road, Haslemere, GU27 2DE t: 0844 502 9457 w: www.thewheatsheafgrayswood.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

GuThe King’s Head recently underwent refurbishment, giving the interior a new lease of life. The welcoming decor matches the home-from-home atmosphere and top-notch menu. On this menu, you’ll fi nd a regularly rotating line-up of ale, in addition to wine and spirits. When it comes to the food, the talented kitchen team utilises fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create a mix of traditional and modern British dishes. The main menu is complemented by a daily changing specials board, meaning regulars will always have something new and exciting to try. The spacious garden boasts plenty of seating and is the perfect place to enjoy the sunshine with four-legged friends in tow. When the weather turns blustery and you’re looking for somewhere to warm your cockles, head to The King’s Head and sink into a comfy sofa in front of the roaring fi re.

Open: Mon 11am-11pm; Tues 11am-11.30pm; Weds 11am-11pm; Thurs 11am-11.30pm; Fri & Sat 11am-12.30am; Sun noon-10.30pm

The King’s Head Location 27 King’s Road, Guildford, GU1 4JW t: 0844 502 9443 w: www.kingsheadguildford.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional


£19to

£26

TaThe Red Lion is a quintessentially British pub. Wander past and the hanging baskets fi lled with bright fl owers, ample outdoor seating and quaint picket fence are sure to catch your eye. The interior is equally charming, with a polished bar running the length of the venue and rustic tables tucked away in nooks and crannies. To the rear, the pub boasts a semi-covered terrace, where visitors are welcome to pull up a pew on a warm day.

Those looking for a tipple will be more than satisfi ed by the selection of ale, cider and lager, and the international wine list, which has tasting notes for those looking to try something new. Cocktails are also served here, for visitors after something a bit more special.

If you arrive with an appetite, the food menu promises to delight. The offering changes with the seasons to make use of the produce available. The lunch menu comprises a range of sandwiches, jacket potatoes and omelettes, while the evening menu is heartier. You might begin with chicken liver pâté with toasted ciabatta or perhaps tempura calamari fl avoured with fresh coriander and paired with sweet chilli sauce. To follow, a selection of pub classics vie for your attention – think steak and kidney pudding, the pub’s signature slow-cooked beef and ale pie, and Cumberland sausages partnered with creamy mash. Alternatively, tuck into the homemade curry served with basmati rice and naan bread, or pan-cooked lamb cutlets drizzled in Port jus and accompanied by scallion mash and green beans. The offering also includes a range of burgers, all of which are served with skinny fries and freshly battered onion rings.

Events are a regular occurrence at The Red Lion, with social media and the pub’s website regularly updated to showcase the goings-on. Live music, specials nights, competitions and tastings are just an example of what the pub has to offer. Regular entertainment features heavily on The Red Lion’s calendar, with professional tribute acts a particular highlight. Check the website for more details.

Dating all the way back to 1309, The Red Lion has an extensive history of offering excellent fare, top-notch service and a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and will undoubtedly continue to do so for many years to come.

TraditionalThe Red Lion Location Castle Street, Bletchingley, RH1 4NU t: 0844 502 0852 w: www.redlionbletchingley.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon noon-9pm; Tues-Thurs noon-9.30pm; Fri & Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-8pm

Surrey Guide 201754


£15to

£20

TaThe King & Queen is a community hub frequented by colleagues relaxing after a long day, walkers with four-legged friends in tow, and families celebrating special occasions in the private Games Bar. The front courtyard is an excellent place to gather when the sun is shining, and is even home to a barbecue or two during the summer months. Come winter, the roaring log fi re and homely atmosphere make The King & Queen the perfect spot to warm one’s cockles. The pub’s beer selection has earned it a mention in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide, with the likes of Fuller’s own ales on tap as well as 17 bottled beers and craft brews lining the shelves. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, you’ll also fi nd spirits, cocktails, wine and soft drinks. Meanwhile, in the kitchen you’ll fi nd a talented brigade of chefs cooking up a fantastic range of pies, from steak and London Pride ale to vegetarian goat’s cheese.

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

The King & Queen Location 34 High Street, Caterham, CR3 5UA t: 0844 502 9422 w: www.kingandqueencaterham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

SEThe Swan epitomises a perfect riverside pub. It occupies a lovely spot by the Thames, offering visitors great vistas to accompany their refreshing pint. There’s a range of ale on tap – including Fuller’s London Pride and Oliver’s Island – as well as Spanish lager, bottled beer, a varied wine list and spirits. Peckish visitors are spoilt for choice with the food menu, with the likes of blackened salmon fi llet, smoked duck breast, and 8oz rare-breed sirloin steak vying for your attention. Starters are also available as tapas for those looking to nibble while catching up with friends and family. Why not complete your visit with an overnight stay and retire upstairs after a delicious three-course evening meal and a few drinks? The hotel’s double rooms are all beautifully decorated and come complete with free Wi-Fi.

Open: Mon-Sat 8.30am-11pm; Sun 8.30am-10.30pm

The Swan Location The Hythe, Staines-upon-Thames, TW18 3JB t: 0844 502 9434 w: www.swanstaines.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

KiFor beautifully presented, delicious fare, look no further than The Queen’s Head in Kingston. The talented head chef, Johnny, was crowned Fuller’s chef of the year for 2017 so you can rest assured that the cuisine is exemplary. Don’t just take my word for it though, go and sample the pan-fried duck breast, beer-brined chicken with peas and barley, or linguine with fresh greens for yourself. Finish your meal in style with passion fruit crème brûlée or perhaps a slice of indulgent chocolate brownie. The pub also offers dedicated breakfast and brunch menus, a lunch offering and nibbles for those at the bar. Pair your bar-side pork scratchings with a pint of cask-conditioned ale, or enjoy olives with a glass of wine from the varied selection. Alternatively, take your tipple outside and relax in a quaint booth.

Open: Mon-Thurs 9am-11pm; Fri & Sat 9am-11.30pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm

The Queen’s Head Location 144 Richmond Road, Kingston, KT2 5HA t: 0844 502 9453 w: www.queensheadkingston.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£15to

£25

WaCapturing the very essence of a traditional village pub, The Sun Inn is a true gem. Enjoying an enviable location on the Dunsfold village green in the heart of the Surrey countryside, this 18th-century establishment epitomises all that you would expect from an exemplary British pub. Rustic decor resonates throughout and authentic wooden furniture complements the olde-worlde character beautifully. Open fi res evoke long winter evenings spent in the company of friends, while the outside tables conjure up idyllic images of hazy summer afternoons relishing cold beers while watching local cricket matches. A custom-built marquee adjoining the pub makes for a stunning wedding venue.Welcomed by the amiable manager and seated in a cosy corner of the bar area, we were immediately absorbed in the heartening hum of local banter, feeling very much at home. The new head chef (chef profi le page 79) behind The Sun Inn’s gastronomy is clearly passionate about the food he cooks, sourcing ingredients locally and producing an honest menu that showcases a range of dishes. Famous for his homemade sausages, he is rightly proud of his butchery skills; the sausage and mash is almost always a sell-out dish. Dishes on the menu boast the winning combination of refreshing simplicity and quality ingredients, and classic pub staples, such as honey-roasted ham, chips and peas with two free-range eggs, as well as the Aberdeen Angus steak burger, need no introduction. Perfectly balanced by the addition of more contemporary plates that include the likes of beetroot and goat’s cheese tortellini with creamed peas and glazed onion, the menu is unashamedly down to earth. Standing out on the starter menu, the chicken and black pudding terrine served with tangy, vibrant piccalilli is a winner, and the salt and pepper calamari also delivers on fl avour. A tempting selection of delicious desserts includes the tantalising mini chocolate and hazelnut doughnuts served with locally made velvety vanilla ice cream and a delectable sticky toffee pudding that packs a sumptuously sweet and delightfully decadent punch.Hosting regular Pie and Pudding nights as well as other celebratory occasions, this wonderful country pub, with its well-stocked bar featuring local ales from Tillingbourne Brewery, offers exceptional value for money. A genuinely family-friendly pub, The Sun Inn also welcomes well-behaved doggies and is a favourite with walkers.

TraditionalThe Sun Inn Location The Common, Dunsfold, GU8 4LE t: 0844 502 9391 w: www.suninndunsfold.co.uk e: [email protected]

Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-5pm

Surrey Guide 201756


£15to

£20

RBThe Barley Mow is the epitome of a traditional pub. It sits in a quiet spot, just off the High Street in the market town of Epsom, and feels a world away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. The pub’s well-kept garden is a popular suntrap in summer, while the roaring open fi re ensures patrons are kept toasty warm when the weather turns cooler. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll fi nd a great range of cask-conditioned ale behind the bar, as well as an exclusive wine selection, artisan soft drinks and a unique range of spirits. The highly skilled kitchen team ensures that all who visit leave fully satiated, with options including beef brisket cottage pie, chickpea and red lentil curry, and smoked salmon Niçoise. Round your visit off with a chocolate brownie and you’ll be leaving with a smile on your face.


The Barley Mow Location 12 Pikes Hill, Epsom, KT17 4EA t: 0844 502 9356 w: www.barley-mow-epsom.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£15to

£20

SEOne and all receive a warm welcome at The Ash Tree – including four-legged friends. If you’re gathering here on a summer’s day, why not head to the patio and soak up the sun while enjoying a refreshing pint? There’s a great range of ale on tap, including Fuller’s own award-winning ESB and the highly popular London Pride. Hungry guests are spoilt for choice by the menu, which features the likes of toasties paired with house fries, build-your-own pizzas and classics like ham, egg and chips, and burgers.

The large TV screens and ample seating make The Ash Tree a great place to watch the live sports. Meanwhile, those who prefer to get involved can make use of the pool table and dartboard. The pub also hosts regular events, including quizzes, poker nights and live music.

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

The Ash Tree Location Convent Road, Ashford, TW15 2HW t: 0844 502 9359 w: www.ashtree-ashford.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

SCEstablished in the 19th century to serve the builders working on local rail links, The Builder’s Arms is a traditional, friendly pub in the heart of Croydon with a convenient location near to the East Croydon railway station. In summer, the pub’s large beer garden becomes the perfect spot for barbecues, hog roasts, and relaxed drinks in the sunshine. The comforting menu comprises light pub snacks and a varied selection of traditional mains. We would recommend the jerk chicken burger with gem lettuce, tomato, red onion and minted mayo, served in a cholla bun alongside delicious chunky chips. Classic mains such as beef lasagne and summery chicken salad are second to none. Arguably the best roast in Croydon, The Builder’s Arms is famous for its delicious Sunday offering. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a chocolate brownie or apple and rhubarb crumble.

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat noon-8pm; Sun noon-6pm

The Builder’s Arms Location 65 Leslie Park Road, Croydon, CR0 6TP t: 0844 502 9411 w: www.buildersarmscroydon.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£20to

£25

MVNestled amid the rolling hills of Mole Valley in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is The Plough Inn. It is the quintessential country pub, where delicious food and drink meets a welcoming atmosphere and traditional surrounds.

After exploring the area with your four-legged friend, or with little ones in tow, there’s no better place to relax and refuel. If you’re not in the mood for a hearty meal, the pub’s shop – situated just next door – is a great place to enjoy homemade sausage rolls, fresh bread from Chalk Hills Bakery and cheese from small artisan providers. The shop also sells many of the ingredients used by the pub’s kitchen team, so diners can recreate their meal at home.

‘...a welcoming atmosphere...’In the pub, the menu changes often in keeping with the produce in season. Perennial favourites like 28-day-aged steaks are always served, alongside seasonal dishes like the home-smoked lamb rump accompanied by seasonal veggies, which is served in springtime. Accompanying the menu is an active specials board, where you’ll fi nd plenty more delicious dishes to choose from. To ensure all feel welcome at The Plough Inn, the menu caters for dietary requirements, with vegetarian and gluten-free options always available. Desserts also make the most of fresh ingredients, with the likes of homemade lemon tart, and ice cream from Caroline’s Dairy vying for your attention. With Surrey so well known for its cheese offering, it comes as no surprise that the pub’s cheeseboard – which is piled high with grapes, apple, date and fi g chutney, artisan crackers and a choice of local cheese – is highly popular.

When it comes to the drinks menu, visitors will feel spoilt for choice. Beer is brewed on-site, so there’s always a bitter, pale ale and stout available. The bespoke wine list is curated by local wine supplier The Vineyard, and offers varietals that match the food perfectly.

There is outdoor seating in the courtyard and the garden, so patrons can sample the pub’s offering while soaking up the sun. The friendly team makes a visit to The Plough Inn all the more special, and will even help you plan your special event, with the venue available for private functions of up to 32 guests.

TraditionalThe Plough Inn Location Coldharbour, RH5 6HD t: 0844 502 9368 w: www.ploughinn.com e: [email protected]

Pub Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-9pm Shop Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6.30pm; Sat 8am-5pm; Sun 9am-5pm

Surrey Guide 201758


£21to

£33

KiSituated just a few minutes’ walk from several local sporting venues, including the home of English rugby, Twickenham Stadium, The Prince Blucher offers a great selection of drinks, a menu of mouth-watering meals and a friendly atmosphere that welcomes each and every guest.

The dedicated match-day menu is an ode to its proximity to the stadium, boasting a very reasonable deal of three courses for £30 or two for £25. The fantastic food offering doesn’t stop there; the main menu offers all of the regular favourites from a traditional English pub menu including pie and mash, and cod and chips, as well as a selection of vegetarian options. Outdoors, the stunning seating area makes al fresco dining a must in the summer months, with a play area that’s perfect for keeping youngsters occupied.

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

The Prince Blucher Location 124 The Green, Twickenham, TW2 5AG t: 0844 502 9455 w: www.princeblucher.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£21to

£32

KiJust a short drive from Twickenham Stadium and Harlequins’ ground, The Turk’s Head has become a favourite among sports fans. However, this does not detract from its appeal for those who are simply seeking a wonderful meal in a traditional English pub setting. Mains include a handmade pie of the day with mash, several vegetarian options and good old-fashioned cod and chips. A stand-out dish is the delicious vegetarian linguine, which comprises olives, spinach, fresh tomatoes, feta and pesto. There are plenty of tasty puddings on offer and the drinks menu is equally impressive. The outdoor seating area and children’s playground are another string to The Turk’s Head’s bow, as is the function room, which plays host to frequent events and can be hired privately for special occasions.


The Turk’s Head Location 28 Winchester Road, Twickenham, TW1 1LF t: 0844 502 9404 w: www.turksheadtwickenham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£25

WaFollowing extensive refurbishment, The Red Lion has been transformed into a chic town-centre pub. As one of the oldest pubs in Surrey, the venue oozes character, with several individual booths in addition to various nooks and crannies lined with comfortable leather seating. Outside, beach huts provide welcome shade in the sunny courtyard. The menu focuses on gourmet burgers but also has a varied selection of chicken dishes, steaks and salads, as well as a weekend brunch menu. The bar boasts a drink selection designed to cater to all tastes, with a huge range of draught beers and regularly changing ales, alongside an array of gin and cocktails. Look out for regular music evenings and themed nights at The Red Lion – it’s a vibrant venue for patrons of all ages.

Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs noon-midnight; Fri noon-1am; Sat 11am-1am; Sun 11am-11pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-2.30pm, 5.30pm-9.30pm; Fri noon-10pm; Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 11am-8.30pm

The Red Lion Location 1 Mill Lane, Godalming, GU7 1HF t: 0844 502 9525 w: www.redliongodalming.com e: [email protected]

Traditional


£18to

£30

SEIf you like nothing better than a walk in the countryside with your canine companion in tow, followed by a hearty pub lunch, I recommend a ramble around Windsor Great Park rounded off by a visit to the nearby dog-friendly Bailiwick. This friendly establishment dates back to 1877 and is a traditional pub through and through, with a menu of wholesome fare, a team of warm, sociable staff, and a charming interior fi lled with cosy corners, rustic wooden furniture and pretty old prints. There is, of course, also a bar stocked with well-kept cask ale and fi ne wine. You can even enjoy your tipple of choice al fresco in the lovely outside seating area if the weather is fi ne.The head chef and his capable team create simple, honest, fresh fare using quality ingredients, so the menu changes often. Classics given a unique twist and cooked to perfection abound on the tempting menu. For example, you might begin with pan-seared scallops paired with pea purée and Parma ham,

or perhaps potted smoked mackerel topped with Bloody Mary jelly. The main-course selection features prime examples of great British cooking, with options such as succulent confi t pork belly accompanied by caramelised apple purée and charred asparagus, fl avoursome Malaysian fi sh stew with sticky coconut rice and steamed pak choi. Leaving room for dessert is a must, as you won’t be able to resist delights like the clementine tart with blackcurrant sorbet, and dark chocolate torte with raspberry sorbet. All in all, walkers stopping by The Bailiwick will be rewarded well for their efforts.

Open: Mon-Fri 10am-11pm; Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm

The Bailiwick Location Wick Road, Englefi eld Green, Nr. Egham, TW20 0HN t: 0844 502 1499 w: www.brunningandprice.co.uk/bailiwick e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£30

RBThe Pheasant reopened in late 2015, having been renamed and lovingly refurbished by specialists Brunning & Price. Their pubs are notable for the comfortable ambience, well-kept cask ales, extensive wine and whisky lists and delicious, home-cooked food. A large venue with 150 covers inside and out, The Pheasant has been cleverly remodelled; polished wooden fl oors, open fi res, exposed brick and original beams create cosy intimacy.Menus are reviewed at six-week intervals, with seasonal changes. We started with fresh scallops and a goat’s cheese tart. The pastry was satisfyingly short and the radish and watercress salad a perfect foil for the cheese’s richness. Main-course choices covered the old favourites, such as my partner’s choice of fi sh and chips, as well as showcasing more unusual options like my wild mushroom pappardelle. My partner’s fi sh was fresh and fl aked well, and my pappardelle was perfectly cooked. Although tempted by the cheeseboard, I

was too satiated by my fi rst two courses, and so instead sampled from the extensive gin selection, which has been enthusiastically curated by the manager. My partner chose sticky toffee pudding and announced that it was superb.With friendly, attentive staff, a popular Sunday roast and coffee and croissants available on weekdays from 10am, this is one of those places that gets it all right.

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Frinoon-10pm; Sat & Sun 9am-11am, noon-9.30pm

The Pheasant Location Reigate Road, Buckland, Nr. Betchworth, RH3 7BG t: 0844 502 2176 w: www.pheasantatbuckland.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

Surrey Guide 201760


£15to

£20

KiThe Anglers occupies a prime spot by the river in Teddington. No matter when you visit, you’ll fi nd the pub bustling with patrons inside and out. Visit for yourself and you’ll understand why this traditional bolthole has such a dedicated following – the welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff are just two strings to The Anglers’ large bow. Thanks to its riverside location and spacious outdoor seating area, the pub is very popular on sunny days. In summer, events are regularly held in the garden, with the likes of hog roasts and barbecues drawing a crowd. The Anglers is equally suited to host visitors when the weather turns cooler, with the whole family invited to gather in front of the log fi re. No matter when you visit, expect traditional yet beautifully presented dishes to sate your appetite, and a tempting choice of Fuller’s beers to quench your thirst.


The Anglers Location 3 Broom Road, Teddington, TW11 9NR t: 0844 502 6747 w: www.anglers-teddington.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

KiAfter a hard day’s work, rest your weary feet and sink into a sofa at The Admiral Nelson, delicious drink in hand. There are plenty of tipples to choose from, with cask ales available on tap, and a great range of wine, spirits and soft drinks behind the bar. Once you’re fully relaxed, I’m sure you’ll be feeling rather peckish. Thankfully, the menus at this atmospheric pub feature tasty British dishes like honey-glazed ham hock accompanied by triple-cooked chips and a poached duck egg, battered cod and chips, and steak and ale pie that’s made using Fuller’s own London Pride beer. If you’ve a sweet-tooth, the range of desserts will not disappoint. The sticky toffee pudding served with salted caramel ice cream is a faultlessly executed classic, while the banoffee cheesecake is pure indulgence. For special occasions, the pub boasts two private function rooms, which are available to hire free of charge.

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

The Admiral Nelson Location 123 Nelson Road, Whitton, TW2 7BB t: 0844 502 9366 w: www.admiralnelsonwhitton.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£20

KiWith Twickenham stadium just a drop-kick away, The Cabbage Patch is undeniably one of the most famous rugby pubs in the country. Buzz and atmosphere don’t just make appearances on match days though, as top-notch gourmet pub food, an afi cionado-impressing selection of cask-conditioned ales, and a world-class whiskey selection keep this place lively and welcoming throughout the week. The Cabbage Patch is a pub that has moved with the times, and the food refl ects that. You can pay a visit at midday throughout the week and enjoy a stellar express lunch, or come with the clan of an evening or weekend to settle down to enjoy gourmet British dishes and pub classics made with locally sourced ingredients. Food service times are subject to change on event and match days, so it’s worth calling ahead for updates.

Open: Mon-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-2am; Sun noon-10pm

The Cabbage Patch Location 67 London Road, Twickenham, TW1 3SZ t: 0844 502 9377 w: www.cabbagepatch.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional


£18to

£30

KiThe Mute Swan should be on your itinerary if you’re visiting the resplendent Hampton Court Palace and Bushy Park. This characterful building is located opposite Hampton Court Palace’s gates and dates back hundreds of years. Inside you’ll fi nd a buzzing, lively downstairs bar and a refi ned dining area upstairs, which is where we settled at a cosy table to enjoy some of The Mute Swan’s sumptuous fare.The food is presented beautifully and tastes as good as it looks. The menu changes daily in keeping with the local, seasonal ingredients available, promising diners fresh and fl avoursome cuisine. My starter of chicken liver pâté paired with rhubarb and apple chutney and toast was exceptional. My companion’s grilled asparagus was similarly satisfying, served with a poached duck yolk, chorizo and ciabatta. Both dishes’ subtle marriage of fl avours demonstrated just how talented The Mute Swan’s chefs are. From the tempting selection

of mains on offer, I plumped for succulent honey-glazed duck breast accompanied by confi t duck leg croquettes and heritage carrots, while my companion opted for the outstanding braised lamb shoulder with creamy Dauphinoise potatoes, greens and rosemary and red wine sauce. The fruity Karu Carmenere went perfectly with both dishes. For dessert, we recommend the dark chocolate and hazelnut praline tart with salted caramel ice cream. It was light but oh-so-moreish and a fi ttingly indulgent end to a fi rst-class meal.

Open: Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm; Fri & Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9.30pm

The Mute Swan Location 3 Palace Gate, East Molesey, KT8 9BN t: 0844 502 2169 w: www.muteswan.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£26

RBThe Fox Revived gets it right; from the range of beer above the bar, to the fresh fl owers on each table and the various nooks and crannies in which you can dine. We were consistently impressed. The large beer garden boasts lovely views towards the North Downs and is the perfect spot for al fresco dining.

‘...the perfect spot for al fresco dining...’A starter of pan-fried scallops atop sunblushed tomato and artichoke purée was beautifully cooked and presented, and was enhanced by crisp bacon and zingy lemon and caper dressing. My partner’s chicken liver pâté was smooth, creamy and nicely balanced by carrot and apricot chutney. We visited on a Sunday, so I couldn’t resist the loin of pork from the tempting selection of roasts, which came with fragrant sage and onion stuffi ng and homemade apple sauce. My partner went for the vegetarian Portobello mushroom, spinach and ricotta Wellington.

The combination of earthy fl avours and buttery pastry was superb, as was the Madeira and mushroom gravy that accompanied it. We just about had room to share the tiramisu with amaretti biscuits, and scrumptious apple and blackberry crumble with vanilla custard. We’ve always been bowled over by Brunning & Price establishments, and The Fox Revived did not disappoint.

Open: Mon-Sat 10.30am-11pm; Sun 10.30am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9.30pm

The Fox Revived Location Norwood Hill, Horley, RH6 0ET t: 0844 502 9620 w: www.brunningandprice.co.uk/foxrevived e: [email protected]

Traditional

Surrey Guide 201762


£10to

£15

MVThe Spotted Dog is a traditional, family-friendly pub with lovely staff and a fantastic atmosphere. As one of few pubs in the area with a spacious beer garden, The Spotted Dog is a great venue for al fresco drinks on sunny days. The decked seating area provides a comfortable spot from which to while away the day. No matter when you visit, the hospitable team will make sure you have a relaxed dining experience and that you enjoy your fi ll of well-deserved drinks. A wide selection of beer, with three real ales and a guest ale on tap, makes The Spotted Dog a beloved watering-hole. If beer isn’t your tipple, a good selection of wine and a fantastic gin menu is sure to delight. The Sunday roast here is utterly delicious and is the pub’s signature dish. Traditional puddings can be found on a daily changing blackboard. For summer barbecues and special functions, the pub’s popular garden is available for private hire.


The Spotted Dog Location 42 South Street, Dorking, RH4 2HQ t: 0844 502 9412 w: www.spotteddogdorking.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£24

TaNestled amidst a row of medieval cottages, The Crown Inn is a treasure waiting to be discovered. Step inside the 16th-century building to fi nd a traditionally decorated interior with plenty of characterful features. There are two cosy bars with open fi res and a comfortable dining area, but the jewel in this Crown is undoubtedly the garden, with its stunning view of the nearby North Downs. The food is homemade, with locally sourced produce used where possible. Pub classics are the staples of the menu but the specials board boasts a wide range of enticing dishes. Sunday roasts are extremely popular, as are wood-fi red pizza and barbecue options in the summer months – perfect for al fresco dining. Local ales and a great selection of wine are readily available, so whatever the occasion it’s a great place to meet friends, relax and enjoy yourself.

Open: Mon 5pm-11pm; Tues-Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-11pm; Sat & Sun noon-11pm (hours vary seasonally)

The Crown Inn Location 53 High Street, Oxted, RH8 9LN t: 0844 502 9672 w: www.crownoxted.co.uk

Traditional

£16to

£22

SEOverlooking luscious, grassy Giggs Hill Green, The Angel in Thames Ditton enjoys an idyllic setting, with two fantastic outside seating areas. Exposed beams and wooden fl oors enhance this traditional pub’s welcoming feel, with various curiosities including antique sewing machines lining the windowsill of one of the well-lit dining areas. With a menu of English classics and a dedicated selection for your little ones, there’s something for everyone at The Angel, including drinks to complement every food choice. The likes of sausage and mash, homemade burgers, and a selection of meat and fi sh pies take pride of place on the extensive menu. Light bites such as panini and jacket potatoes are also available, providing the perfect lunchtime treat. The addition of a spacious function room means that The Angel is ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Open: Mon-Weds 11am-11.30pm; Thurs-Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-2.30pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sat noon-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-4pm

The Angel Location Angel Road, Thames Ditton, KT7 0AU t: 0844 502 9653 w: www.theangelthamesditton.com e: [email protected]

Traditional


£18to

£30

GuGomshall Mill, with its log fi res, lively bar with local ales on tap and riverside dining area, possesses bags of olde-worlde English charm. The mill itself, which dates back to medieval times, was operational until 1953, and has been renovated sympathetically to provide a stylish setting in which to enjoy this pub-restaurant’s superb food. The decor features plenty of throwbacks to the building’s history – some of the original milling equipment is on show in the restaurant area – and the River Tillingbourne fl ows through and under the building, imbuing it with its inimitable character.

‘...possesses bags of olde-worlde English charm...’Food-wise, the menu focuses on using the best seasonal and local ingredients, and so changes regularly. On the evening we visited, we began by enjoying

pan-fried scallops with crispy pancetta and pumpkin purée, and chicken liver pâté accompanied by fi g and plum chutney and toasted brown bread. A hearty chicken, ham hock and leek pie followed, as well as a succulent shoulder of lamb with Dauphinoise potatoes, vegetables and a generous helping of gravy. To fi nish, the mouth-watering prospect of sticky toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream was an obvious choice for me, while my partner opted for baked vanilla cheesecake paired with raspberry sorbet. All in all, it was a lovely meal in an enchanting building.

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

Gomshall Mill Location 52 Station Road, Gomshall, GU5 9LB t: 0844 502 1491 w: www.gomshallmill.hcpr.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£30

WaThe Refectory is set in a charming converted ancient barn and boasts exposed beams, high ceilings, leaded lights, open fi res and chunky wooden tables arranged in a rabbit warren of alcoves. Old stoneware is used as ornamentation and on each of the well-spaced tables is a small stone jar containing fresh daisies. Outside, you’ll fi nd a lovely terrace and garden for al fresco dining on warm evenings. Yet The Refectory is certainly not just a pretty face; the food served here is something special too.

My starter of white onion and cider soup was hearty and very satisfying. For my main course, I plumped for fi sh pie, fi lled with salmon, smoked haddock and prawns. Coconut noodles, cashews and pak choi accompanied my companion’s spicy sea bass and king prawn laksa.

Although almost too full to manage a dessert, we just had to try the much-recommended sticky toffee pudding, and, after just one bite, could understand why it is a local favourite – it was easily one of the best we have tasted.

If you simply wish to enjoy the ambience while sipping a beer, The Refectory has a large range of cask ales as well as a carefully chosen wine list. With second-to-none service, a unique setting and a focus on local, seasonal ingredients, The Refectory is not to be missed.

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

The Refectory Location Portsmouth Road, Milford, Nr. Godalming, GU8 5HJ t: 0844 502 1495 w: www.refectory-godalming.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

Surrey Guide 201764


£15to

£28

RBThe Plough in Redhill never fails to charm. Low-beamed ceilings and open log-burning fi res bring character to the Cask Marque-accredited pub’s interior, while friendly staff and customer-oriented service ensure that every visit is a good one. When it comes to food, think starters of battered squid and soup of the day, and generous traditional British mains such as steak and kidney pudding, bangers and mash and hunter’s chicken, and classic grill selections like rib-eye, sirloin and rump steak. Round things off with banoffee pie or Eton Mess. Start your day with a hearty full English breakfast, available every day from 10am. Though children under the age of ten aren’t permitted inside the pub, The Plough’s suntrap beer garden and sheltered terrace mean that all are welcome, no matter what the weather is doing. Owing to its popularity, booking is recommended, especially on Sunday when the pub serves its traditional roast.

Open: Mon-Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 10am-10pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs 10am-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Fri 10am-3pm, 6pm-9.30pm; Sat 10am-9.30pm; Sun 10am-6pm

The Plough Location 11 Church Road, St Johns, Redhill, RH1 6QE t: 0844 502 0879 w: www.theploughredhill.com e: [email protected]

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£15to

£25

MVThe Half Moon is a charming country pub and restaurant found in the attractive village of Charlwood. We arrived to a friendly greeting and eagerly chose from the tantalising menu of traditional British dishes. I started with the breaded whitebait, while my dining companion plumped for the chicken liver and brandy parfait. We were certainly off to a good start. My main course of chicken breast wrapped in Parma ham was similarly accomplished. The chicken was stuffed with spinach and mushrooms, and came with crisp green beans, fondant potato and a delectable red wine jus. My partner’s pie of the week – comprising tender chunks of chicken in a creamy sauce, encased in crisp pastry – was devoured swiftly; I shall have to return to sample it for myself. We rounded things off with lightly spiced bread and butter pudding with custard, and an apple and berry crumble. Both were delicious and comforting. No wonder The Half Moon is such a hit with the locals.

Open: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-11.30pm; Fri & Sat 11.30am-midnight; Sun noon-11pm

The Half Moon Location 73 The Street, Charlwood, RH6 0DS t: 0844 502 9651 w: www.thehalfmooncharlwood.com e: [email protected]

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£15to

£25

MVThe Abinger Hatch is a true country pub at heart. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s the perfect place to escape to and partake in some exemplary food and drink. When the sun is shining, relax in the garden surrounded by the rolling hills and keep cool with a refreshing pint from the wonderful selection of beer, or a chilled glass of wine. When the weather turns colder, The Abinger Hatch is an equally appealing retreat, thanks to the large log burner and menu of hearty British fare. Everything is freshly made to order, with ingredients hailing from Surrey. Sunday lunch is particularly popular here, though the pub’s warm and welcoming atmosphere is perfect for romantic dinner dates and family gatherings. Weddings and birthdays can be held in their outside marquees. After exploring the area by foot, bike or with your dog, there’s no better place for you and your four-legged friend to relax and refuel than The Abinger Hatch.

Open: Mon-Sat 11.30am-11pm; Sun noon-11pm

The Abinger Hatch Location Abinger Lane, Abinger Common, Nr. Dorking, RH5 6HZ t: 0844 502 9370 w: www.theabingerhatch.com

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£18to

£30

RB

Combining traditional country charm with a contemporary vibe, great local Surrey ales, a no-fuss honest, friendly ambience and lovely walks in the surrounding North Downs, The White Hart has it all.We were greeted by friendly staff and shown into the lofty panelled dining room, which welcomes visitors with a large open fi re. A starter of English asparagus with a soft-boiled hen’s egg, herb salad and Hollandaise mouselline was fresh and delicate, and the roasted tomato, courgette and basil soup, served with crusty bread and butter, was deliciously wholesome. Tempting main courses included lots of classic seasonal English dishes and plenty of vegetarian options. From the traditional steak and ale pie (made with Brunning & Price Original Bitter) to the harissa halloumi salad with chargrilled aubergine, spiced chickpeas, almonds and apricots, there is something for everyone. The menu

is heavily infl uenced by the kitchen team, as demonstrated by the fi lling and aromatic Sri Lankan fi sh curry, which was inspired by head chef Mark’s recent honeymoon. A custardy crème brûlée with buttery shortbread biscuit, and a lip-smacking black forest trifl e with dark chocolate and cherries topped with cream was the perfect end to a stunning meal. The White Hart has a welcoming bar with a vast selection of wine, gin and whisky if you just fancy a drink, but I urge you to visit for a meal – the food is simply wonderful.

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

The White Hart – Chipstead Location Hazelwood Lane, Chipstead, CR5 3QW t: 0844 502 1492 w: www.brunningandprice.co.uk/whitehartchipstead e: [email protected]

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£17to

£24

KiThe Eel Pie is tucked away on one of Twickenham’s quaint cobbled streets, a mere stone’s throw from River Thames and the celebrated Eel Pie Island. Attracting returning locals and fi rst-time visitors alike, the pub boasts olde-worlde charm and a warm and inviting atmosphere.At the front of the venue there’s a long bar and plenty of cosy seating to sink into, while the rear of the pub is home to the restaurant area, which leads to the spacious beer garden. The menu comprises a mix of traditional and modern dishes, meaning there’s something to suit everyone. From the tempting range of starters we began with a homemade Scotch egg and scrumptious honey-glazed sausages. Our appetites suffi ciently whetted, I then devoured the house cheeseburger, with an added thick-cut slice of streaky bacon. My friend chose from the blackboard of daily

specials, enjoying steak and ale pie, served alongside fresh green beans and mashed potato. Our meal fi nished on a sweet note with cherry pie and treacle sponge, both served with homemade custard. We were thoroughly impressed with the quality of the food, and will undoubtedly be returning to sample from the seasonally changing menu again. On our visit I also spotted a sign noting that The Eel Pie is dog-friendly, so I may even bring my pooch next time.

Open: Mon-Weds 11am-11pm; Thurs-Sat 11am-midnight; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Sat noon-9pm; Sun noon-6pm

The Eel Pie Location 9-11 Church Street, Twickenham, TW1 3NJ t: 0844 502 1488 w: www.theeelpie.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£15to

£20

KiHaving served delicious food and an excellent range of cask-conditioned ale for 300 years, The Prince’s Head is a Richmond institution. All are welcome at this atmospheric pub, with little ones catered for with a dedicated children’s menu. Parents, meanwhile, can choose from mouth-watering options such as venison bolognese, harissa-spiced chicken paired with Israeli couscous, and chicken and mushroom pie. No matter what diners choose, their meal will be made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, transformed by the talented kitchen team into exemplary dishes. For those simply looking to imbibe, there’s an ever-changing cadre of ale on tap at The Prince’s Head, as well as a choice of craft lager, wine, spirits and soft drinks. Friendly service and a warm atmosphere are further strings to the pub’s bow, so there’s every reason to frequent this community hub.


The Prince’s Head Location 28 The Green, Richmond, TW9 1LX t: 0844 502 9415 w: www.princeshead.co.uk e: [email protected]

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Surrey Guide 201766


£20to

£25

WaWith his grandfather and father in the trade before him, running a pub is in landlord Tom’s genes. His infectious enthusiasm creates an atmosphere of bonhomie in this quaint, nautical-themed hostelry. The food offering is also exceptional. To begin we sampled garlic mushrooms atop bruschetta, and crispy calamari paired with sweet chilli sauce. To follow, my poached salmon was very fl avoursome, as was my partner’s rich steak and ale pie. The generous portion proved too much for my companion, though I refused to be beaten and opted for something from the mouth-watering dessert board. The lemon posset looked almost too good to eat, adorned with summer fruits and accompanied by a shortbread round and a drizzle of coulis. We wholeheartedly recommend dining here, though if you’d prefer to just sample the drinks offering, the myriad gins and Cask Marque-accredited ale selection mean you’ll be spoilt for choice.


Nelson Arms Location 50 Castle Street, Farnham, GU9 7JQ t: 0844 502 9350 w: www.nelson-arms.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£18to

£25

RBConveniently located in Redhill, Red Lion is a traditional British pub that dates back to 1871, offering a cosy setting in which to enjoy a relaxed drink or a spot of fl avoursome pub grub. The team is passionate about its bill of delicious British fare, and sources the fi nest ingredients from the best local suppliers. Each of the dishes is prepared to order by Lee, the experienced chef, whose comforting daily specials and great Sunday roasts keep customers returning time and again. The menu boasts appetisers of baked Camembert with garlic bread, and the classic ploughman’s, and hearty mains such as rib-eye steak complete with chips, onion rings, mushrooms and grilled tomato. The burgers are a house speciality and all come paired with homemade salsa and chips. Meanwhile, the traditional beer-battered fi sh and chips is the perfect accompaniment to a refreshing tipple. With a varied choice of beer, six real ales, over 50 premium spirits and an extensive selection of wine, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Food Served: Mon 11.30am-3pm; Tues-Fri 11.30am-3pm, 5.30pm-9pm; Sat 11.30am-9pm; Sun noon-5pm

Red Lion Location 48 Linkfi eld Lane, Redhill, RH1 1DP t: 0844 502 9376 w: www.redlionredhill.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£15to

£20

SWSituated in the heart of Sandhurst, the Village Inn is a lovely, friendly pub at the centre of its vibrant community. Popular among locals and visitors alike, the inn offers a fun and lively atmosphere in relaxed and comfortable surrounds, and welcomes four-legged friends. With a cosy interior and plenty of outdoor seating, the Village Inn is worth a visit at any time of year, and indeed any time of day. It also boasts an open log fi re, perfect for those chilly winter evenings.

Menus change daily and encompass snacks, light bites and hearty three-course meals, all cooked fresh to order. The Village Inn is especially well known for its fantastic Sunday menu, which boasts the likes of roast Scotch sirloin, South Downs leg of lamb with fresh rosemary and garlic, Somerset pork loin and crackling, and courgette, Brie and garlic Wellington, all of which are served with all the trimmings. If you don’t fancy a roast, there are plenty of other

home-cooked delights on offer. On a sunny afternoon, nothing beats relaxing with a cocktail in the spacious beer garden. If the weather’s compliant, the Village Inn has all you need and more, with a heated smoking terrace and an outdoor cocktail bar, which puts smiles on faces every Friday and Saturday. What’s more, the Village Inn has a fantastic line-up of entertainment and live music, making it the perfect place to bring the entire family.

Open: Mon-Weds noon-11pm; Thurs noon-midnight; Fri & Sat noon-1am; Sun noon-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat & Sun noon-5pm

Village Inn Location 21 Yorktown Road, Sandhurst, GU47 9DX t: 0844 502 9379 w: www.villageinnsandhurst.com e: [email protected]

Traditional

£18to

£35

KiSituated just around the corner from the Brentford FC ground, The Griffi n is a buzzing place to be pre-game, but is much more than just a match-day watering hole. It has locals and visitors alike raving about the top-notch food, fantastic drinks and friendly service. Always popular with football fans, the pub boasts a great range of ale, beer and spirits alongside a comprehensive wine list.

Diners can embark on a culinary journey and discover new dishes in the stylish restaurant, where head chef Gerhard impresses with his creative, seasonal dishes.

For lunch, the venue presents a varied menu of traditional pub grub, lovingly made to put a smile on your face. You can also enjoy your food and drink in the award-winning secluded patio garden. In the evening, guests can expect the likes of steamed Scottish rope-grown mussels and warm goat’s cheese salad to start. The main event may include pan-fried monkfi sh, high-quality rib-eye

steak, and Hungarian goulash with herb spaetzle and sour cream. Meanwhile, Sunday roasts attract local foodies in droves, as meat, crispy roast potatoes, colourful vegetables and lashings of gravy can be had at a great price.

The function room upstairs can accommodate up to 50 guests and is available to hire for birthdays and parties, making this a great place for all occasions.

Food Served: Tues-Sat noon-3pm, 6.30pm-10pm; Sun noon-5pm

The Griffi n Location Brook Road, Brentford, TW8 0NP t: 0844 502 0876 w: www.griffi nbrentford.co.uk

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Surrey Guide 201768


£16to

£25

MVLocated on the outskirts of the pretty market town of Dorking, The Falkland Arms is somewhere for both sunny days and chilly nights. Managing to be all things to all people, it caters for pretty much every eventuality.In the summer, the lovely beer garden comes into its own, with the mature beds and hanging baskets blooming. It’s a lovely setting for an afternoon’s wining and dining. Inside, the stylish heritage green and white colour scheme, wingback chairs and cosy corners make this pub perfect for when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Rugby fans can put their feet up, pint of Young’s in hand, and watch the game thanks to the large plasma screens. The Falkland Arms is also ideal for those with something to celebrate, as the team can cater for everything from weddings to birthdays. Of course, the food served here is of excellent quality. Centred around pub classics, the menu offers such starters as fried whitebait, but also sharing platters for two – the baked Camembert option is served with onion chutney and a sliced baguette. Young’s beer-battered fi sh with chunky chips, peas and tartare sauce is a classic main that can’t be beaten – although the steak and ale pie is a close contender.

After lemon tart drizzled with mango coulis and paired with cream to fi nish, you’ll leave thoroughly impressed and defi nitely satisfi ed. Light bites are available, and the traditional Sunday roast is highly popular, so booking is recommended. With generous portions of quality food served with a genuine smile, The Falkland Arms is busy every night of the week.

Open: Sun-Thurs noon-11pm; Fri & Sat noon-midnight Food Served: Mon & Tues noon-2.30pm (bar snacks only); Weds-Sat noon-2.30pm, 6.30pm-9.30pm; Sun noon-4pm

The Falkland Arms Location 60 Falkland Road, Dorking, RH4 3AD t: 0844 502 0894 w: www.falklandarmsdorking.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£19to

£29

MVThis picturesque 16th-century pub occupies a pretty spot in the village of Leigh. Inside, the exposed ceiling beams and inglenook fi replace give the venue a homely feel – as do the friendly staff, who ensure that all who visit are greeted as old friends. Our visit began by the inviting bar, where we perused the selection of beer on tap, varied wine list and craft gin. After making our choices, we moved to the dining room, where linen tablecloths and attractive place settings added a sense of occasion. From the eclectic menu I fancied several of the appealing starters, but eventually plumped for lollipop prawns with lemon and chilli jelly, paired with fresh salad. Meanwhile, my companion relished his deep-fried Camembert. To follow, my traditional liver and bacon came with fresh vegetables, creamy mash, piquant red cabbage and lovely gravy. Swordfi sh was my friend’s choice, and he was very complimentary of the dish. The dessert menu features both rich and lighter choices. From the tempting range I enjoyed a couple of scoops of locally sourced

honey and ginger ice cream, while my companion eagerly tucked into his cheeseboard. There’s also a great range of specials, and vegetarians are well catered for.The kitchen team is evidently enthusiastic about utilising fresh ingredients, as every course was fl avoursome and also beautifully presented. We left feeling well fed and eager to return.

Open: Mon-Sat noon-11pm; Sun noon-10pm Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 6pm-9pm; Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-6pm

The Seven Stars Location Bunce Common Road, Dawes Green, Leigh, RH2 8NP t: 0844 502 9487 w: www.7starsleigh.co.uk e: [email protected]

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SW

£18to

£30

SWWhat a breath of fresh air to fi nd a proper pub that has been lovingly maintained and is in tune with the pulse of its community. The White Hart shines, with its picturesque setting by the village cricket pitch and low-timbered ceilings.

We established ourselves by the open fi re, perfectly positioned in comfy armchairs to take in our surroundings with a glass in hand. We’d already checked out the seasonally changing menu online, the diffi cult decision-making completed before we arrived.

Moving through to the dining room, we started our evening feast with grilled asparagus and a poached duck egg atop toasted ciabatta, enhanced by Hollandaise sauce, and pan-seared scallops accompanied by clam fritters, crispy Parma ham and saffron and harissa aioli. For the main course, I was treated to confi t pork belly with ginger beer glaze, matched with black pudding

croquettes, Lyonnaise potatoes and creamed leeks. My partner had the fi sh pie, which was wonderfully creamy, fi lled with smoked salmon, haddock and prawns. We spotted a selection of English wines on the menu, so chose the Silent Pool rosé, which proved a crisp yet fruity accompaniment to the meal.

Intent on fully indulging, we extended our evening stay with desserts and ordered crème brûlée with shortbread biscuits, and bread and butter pudding accompanied by apricot sauce and clotted cream. All in all, it was a lovely evening.


The White Hart – Chobham Location High Street, Chobham, Nr. Woking, GU24 8AA t: 0845 649 9979 w: www.whitehart-chobham.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£17to

£24

Situated on the Wey Navigation, The Anchor is a great stopping point for walkers and cyclists alike. Boasting an extensive outdoor area with tables running alongside the canal, as well as a bright and fresh interior, this friendly pub ticks every box. The varied food menu caters for every palate and appetite. From the selection we began by tucking into a vegetarian sharing board, which comprised falafel, fl atbread, olives and feta, as well as garlicky hummus and tzatziki for dipping. I was in the mood for something light, so followed with the vegan-friendly caramelised tofu and roasted vegetable salad, which was drizzled in balsamic vinegar and really hit the spot. Meanwhile, my partner plumped for roast cod. It arrived atop a bed of ratatouille, accompanied by seasonal vegetables, and was delicious indeed. We were spoilt for choice with the dessert menu – who can choose between lemon posset, Eton Mess and sticky toffee pudding? After much

deliberation I opted for the lemon posset, which was equal parts tart and refreshing. My husband was equally taken with his warm chocolate brownie, drizzled in chocolate sauce and partnered with a scoop of Devonshire cream ice cream.The food offering is complemented by a comprehensive choice of wine and ale, making The Anchor the perfect place to frequent whether you’re looking to imbibe or are after a three-course feast. The pub even serves dog-friendly ice cream – all who visit are well looked after.

Open: Mon-Sat 9am-11pm; Sun 9am-10.30pm Food Served: Mon-Thurs noon-9pm; Fri & Sat noon-9.30pm; Sun noon-8pm

The Anchor Location Pyrford Lock, Wisley, Nr. Woking, GU23 6QW t: 0844 502 0684 w: www.anchorpyrford.co.uk e: [email protected]

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Surrey Guide 201770


£20to

£30

WaFavoured by locals and visitors alike, this traditional Irish pub in Rowledge is the place to go if you’re after home-cooked food, friendly service and a relaxing area in which to drink and dine.

‘...hearty, homemade fare that’s cooked to order...’The line-up of ale changes each month to keep things interesting and, of course, Guinness takes pride of place at the bar. When it comes to food, you can expect hearty, homemade fare that’s cooked to order. Diners can choose from the seasonally changing menu that incorporates seasonal, fresh produce. Pop in for lunch and enjoy the likes of sandwiches, fi lled jacket potatoes, wraps and bar bites. If choosing from the main menu, you might opt for starters of smoked mackerel or tian of crab. Mains include fi sh of the week, and lamb rump with boiled bacon and cabbage. The mouth-watering range of desserts

ensures your meal will end on a high note. A tasty Sunday lunch is worth looking forward to all week, but that doesn’t mean you want the same thing each time you visit – at this pub, options change weekly. A gluten-free menu and a children’s menu are also available.

The pub hosts a number of regular events that draw the crowds in and the team is keen to support local charities. Check out their Facebook page for the latest news and events.

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

Hare & Hounds Location The Square, Rowledge, GU10 4AA t: 0844 502 9334 w: www.hareandhoundsrowledge.co.uk e: [email protected]

Traditional

£15to

£25

KiSituated in leafy Richmond, just a short wander from the train station, The Sun Inn offers rugby fans, families and foodies a traditional English pub experience, complete with fi ne food and a list of drinks to suit all tastes. The sporting infl uences of the surrounding area have clearly shaped the decor, with rugby memorabilia including signed shirts, photos and match balls taking pride of place on the majority of the walls, as well as several large screens for unmissable fi xtures. The wonderful outside seating area is newly furnished and boasts several screens, so you’ll never miss a minute of sporting action. Start the day right with a highly recommended match-day breakfast before kick off.

Head chef Maria’s classic home-cooked dishes are the focus of the menu, with family favourites such as Margy’s fabulous spicy chilli and Joe’s famous steak pie, which are exceedingly popular with visitors for lunch and dinner. Lighter bites are also available for those with smaller appetites. Pair your hearty meal with a tipple from a huge selection that includes

the likes of London Pride, Seafarers and Peroni, as well as Fuller’s brews, guest ales and seasonal beers. The Sun Inn has been awarded a Master Cellarman accolade, refl ecting the pub’s excellent cellar standards and diligent beer-keeping.

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-9pm; Sat & Sun noon-5pm

The Sun Inn Location 17 Parkshot, Richmond, TW9 2RG t: 0844 502 9636 w: www.suninnrichmond.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£18to

£25

RBFinding a great new pub in your local area is one of life’s greatest simple pleasures, especially if the pub offers excellent food and optimal service. I’m pleased to say that The Black Horse in Hookwood does just that, drawing many returning and brand-new customers with regularity. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, a grass play area for children and dog-friendly spaces, so nobody has to miss out. The indoor bar is inviting, with attentive, friendly staff. The restaurant areas are equally enticing, with bright decor and comfortable furnishings.The food menus offer plenty of choice, with lots of options for those with special dietary requirements. Many of the dishes are listed with a recommendation of a drink to accompany them. The sandwiches are understandably popular and would have provided welcome sustenance. However, we opted for the shared veggie board to start, tempted by the sound of falafel with tzatziki, hummus with

fl atbread, and mixed olives and feta. Our mains excelled in both quality and value. The generous portion of beef ribs was beautifully tender and came with skinny chips. My salad of crisp lettuce, tomato, ripe avocado topped with sticky chicken, and honey-mustard sauce was fresh and delicious. We fi nished with an excellent cup of coffee, but were a little too full to manage dessert, so we have the perfect excuse to return.

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

The Black Horse Location Reigate Road, Hookwood, Nr. Horley, RH6 0HU t: 0844 502 9553 w: www.blackhorsehookwood.co.uk e: [email protected]

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Surrey Guide 201772


£10to

£30

SCAt Fushia, glittering marble and soft neon lighting create a relaxed, glamorous environment. The spacious banqueting hall is the perfect party venue, and the restaurant offers romantic nooks for more intimate meals, and comfy sofas to relax on while you watch a Bollywood fl ick. On arrival you’ll be greeted by professional, friendly staff. Why not order a drink from the well-stocked bar as you peruse the impressive menu? Watch the talented chef work his magic through the kitchen’s viewing hatch and take in the stylish surroundings. The food is vibrant and perfectly executed; I highly recommend the tandoori jhinga – huge, succulent prawns marinated in spices on a sizzling platter. My partner’s aubergine masala, seasoned with Fushia’s secret spice blend, was sublime, and the bhuna gosht with succulent pieces of boneless lamb was fragrant and moreish. With live entertainment lined up throughout the year, this is a venue you don’t want to miss.

Open: Mon & Weds-Sat 5pm-11pm; Sun noon-11pm

Fushia Location 3 Brighton Road, South Croydon, CR2 6EA t: 0844 502 0851 w: www.fushiauk.com e: [email protected]

Indian

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£15to

£20

WaA warm welcome awaits the whole family at The Mill at Elstead. On blustery days, visitors can gather inside this quintessentially British pub, beneath the exposed beams and surrounded by vintage decor that hints at the pub’s rich history as a hospital during World War II. When the sun is shining, the spacious garden is the perfect place to relax, with your four-legged friend in tow. No visit to The Mill is complete without sampling the extensive food and drink offering. Behind the bar you’ll fi nd cask-conditioned ale, craft lager and a bespoke selection of spirits. There’s also a great selection of wine available – why not enjoy a glass of white alongside an order of smoked haddock with a poached egg and Jersey Royal potatoes, drizzled in Hollandaise sauce? Alternatively, the chicken, ham and leek pie paired with seasonal greens is well matched by a glass of red.


The Mill at Elstead Location Farnham Road, Elstead, Nr. Godalming, GU8 6LE t: 0844 502 9348 w: www.millelstead.co.uk e: [email protected]

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£16to

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RBSpice Guru offers a bespoke dining experience for all. The contemporary interior is bound to impress, thanks to plush seating, crisp white tablecloths and ambient lighting.

The menu is equally sublime, and is bursting with the very best authentic Indian cuisine. Only the fi nest ingredients are used by the passionate kitchen team and it shows in the quality of the dishes. On arrival we were greeted by friendly staff, and were enticed by the amazing scent of spices. Everything we tried was exceptional; even the poppadoms were paired with vibrant and fl avoursome sauces. It came as no surprise that my starter of malai lamb chops were succulent and moreish. My partner opted for the chicken momo, which was cooked in the tandoor to enhance the dish’s fragrant combination of tamarind and dates. Our main courses were simply superb; the pan-fried salmon fi llet

was delicate and fl aky, and the king prawn masala was utterly delicious. From the selection of freshly made sundries we chose to complete our meal with roti, as well as a portion of pilau rice.

Our dining experience was faultless from beginning to end, and we will certainly be returning to sample more of the menu. For those who’d prefer to enjoy the Spice Guru offering at home, the restaurant offers a takeaway service for those within a fi ve-mile radius.

Open: Mon-Weds 5.30pm-11pm; Thurs-Sat 5.30pm-midnight; Sun 5.30pm-10pm

Spice Guru Location 39-41 Church Street, Reigate, RH2 0AD t: 0844 502 0872 w: www.spiceguru-reigate.co.uk e: [email protected]

Indian

£14to

£21

RBTucked away in Reigate’s West Street, this restrained and unpretentious restaurant has been delighting diners for nigh on 20 years with traditional Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine, as well as more innovative dishes. The Village Brasserie underwent extensive refurbishment, introducing soft modern lighting, geometric motifs and stylish wood and leather furnishings.We began our meal with a mixed platter of appetising starters that included onion bhaji, seekh kebab, samosa and chicken tikka. With my fairly adventurous tastebuds, I picked one of the spicier options to follow – dhaba murgh, an authentic Punjabi dish of tender chicken cooked in spicy masala sauce – while my partner opted for the less fiery but equally delicious imlidaar batak – tandoori-baked duck in a delicate, tangy sauce. Plain naan and coconut rice were mild but tasty accompaniments that allowed the full flavours of the dishes to shine through. There are also tantalising choices for vegetarians, including vegetable garlic masala and paneer jalfrezi, and fish dishes such

as salmon shaslick and barbecued king prawns in lemongrass and curry sauce. The Village Brasserie’s dishes are prepared using healthy cooking methods that use less oil than typical Indian cooking, so you can enjoy the generous portions with an easy conscience. We accompanied our meal with a bottle of wine from the well-chosen selection and vowed to come here again with a group of friends. We’re also going to try their takeaway service, as delivery is free within a four-mile radius.

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

Village Brasserie Location 10 West Street, Reigate, RH2 9BS t: 0844 502 1101 w: www.villagebrasserie.com e: [email protected]

Indian

*£19

Surrey Guide 201774


SCIf you’re feeling peckish but can’t decide what type of food you fancy, then the renowned JRC Buffet is the place for you. Situated within a bustling leisure park in the Broad Green area, this eatery provides a fun dining alternative to shoppers and visitors to the cinema. Arrive with an appetite, as diners can expect to undergo a culinary journey from the depths of America to the tropics of Thailand.

Menus change regularly, adapting to suit the season’s offerings, and include over 200 dishes. You could dine on sticky ribs coated in a delicious Brazilian glaze or dim sum, before tucking into a creamy Goan fi sh curry or Italian pizza. If you are a sweet-toothed fi end, why not fi nish your feast by sampling from the delicious range of desserts, which includes a magnifi cent chocolate mountain? Buffets are interspersed with cooking stations, where guests can witness passionate chefs cooking fresh fare before their very eyes, adding to the friendly atmosphere these restaurants boast. All of this is available at excellent value for money and under one roof. Travelling foodies will also

be delighted to discover that the Croydon restaurant is just one of numerous JRC Global Buffets in the UK.

*Price represents the cost of a dinner buffet meal with unlimited soft drinks.

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

JRC Global Buffet Location Valley Retail & Leisure Park, Beddington Farm Road, Croydon, CR0 4YA t: 0844 502 0890 w: www.jrc-globalbuffet.com e: [email protected]

World Cuisine

£20to

£30

MVHidden in the backstreets of Dorking is this culinary gem. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, the Dorking Brasserie inspires great loyalty. This is in part due to the friendly and passionate owner, Mr Ali, whose character infuses the whole experience of dining here, from the warm welcome when you arrive to the creative menu and individual attention you receive when ordering.

Ever on the lookout for new fl avours and combinations, Mr Ali keeps the menu fresh and authentic. It features a collection of Indian classics, as well as lower-calorie options, and caters excellently for those with food allergies and intolerances. Weekly specials and speciality dishes keep the menu dynamic, but it’s the chance to get a bespoke meal made for you that gives diners a really unusual treat. Beckon over Mr Ali, who will quiz you on your likes and dislikes, then come up with a dish tailored just for you.

Fusing tradition with contemporary touches, the venue has a relaxed ambience – perfect for an evening

out with friends or an intimate meal for two. Check out the Dorking Brasserie website or Facebook page to discover the weekly specials and join the Email Club for access to exclusive discounts. Call to order a takeaway and enjoy their deliciously authentic Bangladeshi fare at home.

Open: Mon-Sun noon-2.30pm, 6pm-11.30pm

Dorking Brasserie Location Highland Cottage, Junction Road, Dorking, RH4 3HB t: 0844 502 9343 w: www.dorkingbrasserie.co.uk e: [email protected]

Indian


£15to

£30

WaWithin the bustling and ever-so-British market town of Farnham you’ll fi nd the fabulous Thai Lotusland. It’s a comforting establishment, which is carefully laid out with comfy chairs and traditional sunken fl oors for an authentic experience, but also has a more formal restaurant. The staff are welcoming and softly spoken, seamlessly seeing to your every need, so you’ll feel relaxed from the minute you enter.Thai cuisine is popular due to its light, fresh fl avours and delicately balanced spices, and Thai Lotusland offers authentic gourmet Thai cuisine that will have your mouth watering. The team of experienced chefs produces delectable dishes that draw diners from far and wide – unsurprising when you fi rst read the impressive menu. If you’re already a fan of authentic Thai cuisine, be prepared to make some tough decisions.Perhaps start with stir-fried scallops with oyster sauce, garlic and pepper, deep-fried prawns in light, crispy tempura batter, or mussels in Thai herbs and spices. Thai cuisine is all about balance and gentle fl avours that complement one

another – it’s a subtle art that Thai Lotusland’s chefs have down to a tee. Rice, noodles, soups and salads are all available alongside chicken, meat, vegetable and seafood dishes. The steamed sea bass, for example, is wonderfully plump and delicate, whether you enjoy it with creamy curry, a zingy sweet and sour number, or fl avoured with a typically Thai combination of ginger and spring onion. If you can’t decide which of the many dishes to try, opt for a set menu that includes starters, soups and mains to share between two or more people.

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

Thai Lotusland Location East Street, Farnham, GU9 7TH t: 0844 502 2752 w: www.thailotusland.co.uk

Thai

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£15to

£20

KiWith a fantastically different offering to most pubs in the area, The Prince Albert is one of Twickenham’s most popular destinations for relaxed drinks and traditional pub dining. An exciting twist comes in the form of the pub’s authentic menu of delicious Thai cuisine. As one of the best Thai restaurants in the area, people travel from miles away to pick up their favourite takeaway. Those eating in the pub will appreciate its attractive interior and lovely beer garden – perfect for al fresco dining. The garden is partially sheltered from the unpredictable weather, and the spacious lawn is the ideal place for the kids to work up an appetite. Ale afi cionados will be pleased to hear that The Prince Albert’s well-kept pints are poured to perfection, and have earned the pub Master Cellerman accreditation. If you’re not a beer-lover, world wines and spirits are also available in abundance.

Food Served: Mon-Fri noon-3pm, 5pm-10pm; Sat noon-10pm; Sun noon-9pm

The Prince Albert Location 30 Hampton Road, Twickenham, TW2 5QB t: 0844 502 9438 w: www.princealberttwickenham.co.uk e: [email protected]

Thai

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In the years Kenneth Culhane has been head chef at The Dysart Petersham, he has fi rmly established his reputation as a chef of great skill, imagination and fi nesse. He learned his craft with some of the world’s fi nest chefs and won the Roux Scholarship in 2010 before taking this role.

‘...a chef of great skill, imagination and fi nesse...’Kenneth makes the most of the freshest seasonal yield from the garden, locally foraged produce and the fi nest ingredients from the UK and Europe. Everything is thoughtfully handcrafted, including homemade breads that are baked daily.

A recent invitation to join the prestigious Slow Food Chef Alliance refl ects this dedication, as he joins other top culinary names championing food that is produced using ‘forgotten’, traditional ingredients and environmentally friendly methods. His style of cooking is rooted in the precision of the French classical tradition and is subtly infl uenced by Asian ingredients and fl avours.

Recently arrived at The Oak Room at Woodlands Park Hotel, Andrew Mackenzie is keen to make his mark and showcase his creative flair for simple, strong flavours with a firm French influence. Culinary talent runs in Andrew’s family, with both his uncles being chefs. Andrew trained under Alan Hill at the renowned Gleneagles Hotel in Scotland before working under Paul Rhodes at Chez Nico in London. Andrew chooses his suppliers for their passion about their produce, and he loves the great seasonal vegetables and salads in the South East, as well as the fantastic meat, and the fresh fish from the south coast.

‘...enjoys the challenge of every section of the kitchen...’Autumn is his preferred season in the culinary calendar because of the game that is available, with partridge being a particular favourite. Andrew enjoys the challenge of every section of the kitchen and says that to be a good chef you need to be patient, hard-working and thick-skinned, and to keep your knives sharp.

Thrust into the spotlight last autumn when he took over the stove at Ripley’s celebrated restaurant, The Clock House, head chef Fred Clapperton has certainly risen to the challenge. Within months, the restaurant’s three AA rosettes were reinstated, and Fred’s fabulous food is receiving wide critical acclaim. Having been sous chef at the restaurant since November 2013, promoting Fred to head chef was an easy decision for owner Serina Drake.

‘...Fred and his team pour passion into the dishes they create...’

Fred has an innate understanding of how The Clock House kitchen brigade likes to work. He works closely with the restaurant manager, Joseph Pocceschi, and the rest of the team to ensure that diners have the best possible experience. Taking the utmost care, Fred and his team pour passion into the dishes they create. Their hard work ensures that the end result is fi rst-class, and boasts an incredible depth of fl avour.

Fred Clapperton – The Clock House – Pg 3

Kenneth Culhane – The Dysart Petersham – Pg 4

Andrew Mackenzie – The Oak Room – Pg 4 Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le


As a chef in Surrey, Charles feels spoilt for choice by the great local ingredients available – especially the cheese. Thanks to this wealth of suppliers, Charles ensures that the produce used in the Mulberry Restaurant is always of the fi nest quality. His favourite ingredients include asparagus and broad beans, which he likes to prepare with care and attention, and use when they’re fresh to achieve the best fl avours. Charles also believes that a key component in making delicious dishes is to have a well-prepared and highly organised work station.

‘...he likes to prepare with care and attention...’In terms of creativity, Charles likes to discover new texture and taste combinations by adapting recipes from around the globe. The teamwork and camaraderie in the kitchen are what Charles really enjoys about being a chef, as is the sense of achievement that comes with completing a particularly busy service.

First inspired by an aunt that could make pasta by hand when she was only six years old, Gianluca di Monaco has honed his skills in many prestigious kitchens. He has worked at the renowned Zafferano in London, and one of his most memorable experiences was cooking for the opening of Shoreditch House.

‘...loves working in a field that never stops developing...’Gianluca has been sous-chef to Pierre Koffmann, who taught him how to make the most of every ingredient, and to look at a simple tomato as though it were a diamond. This focus on fresh ingredients, lovingly prepared, is already paying off at Le Salon Privé, which was commended in the best new start-up category of the 2015 Richmond Business Awards.

Gianluca appreciates the variety of different cuisines around the world and the continuous evolution of culinary styles within the UK. He loves working in a field that never stops developing, with constant opportunities for learning.

Since Adam’s training began, he’s always shown a penchant for baking. At college he dedicated a year to studying patisserie, something he advises any aspiring chef to do. During this year Adam discovered many skills that can’t be mastered in the day-to-day running of a kitchen, and his love of creating beautiful desserts fl ourished.

‘...wowing diners with his culinary creations...’Wowing diners with his culinary creations is one of Adam’s favourite parts of being a chef, though he also enjoys hosting masterclasses and training the next generation. When choosing which produce to use, Adam selects ingredients with a story behind them. It’s this dedication to doing something different to the norm – a quality Adam admires in fellow chef Marco Pierre White – that has led Adam to achieve AA rosettes in every kitchen he’s worked in as head chef. This includes Brooklands Hotel’s 1907, where Adam has attained two AA rosettes for three years in a row.

Adam Potten – 1907 Restaurant, Bar & Grill – Pg 7Chef Profi le

Charles Noorland – Mulberry Restaurant – Pg 17

Gianluca di Monaco – Le Salon Privé – Pg 37Chef Profi le

Chef Profi le


Surrey Guide 201778

Cameron’s fi rst foray into the culinary world began in Australia where he trained as a butcher. Upon his return to the UK, Cameron transferred his skills to the kitchen, and thus began his culinary career. Cameron loves working with the natural larder available in Surrey and sources produce from customers’ gardens and local suppliers that give back to the community. He believes in cooking ingredients simply and using them when they’re freshest for maximum fl avour.

‘...cooking ingredients simply and using them when they’re freshest...’

His favourite season is winter, when beetroot and locally shot game like venison and rabbit are in season. Hearty food also comes to the fore at this time of year, so Cameron gets to whip out one of his most popular recipes – ham hock mac and cheese. For this, he uses ham that’s smoked in-house and cooked in hay, and handmade macaroni.

Cameron Emmett – The Sun Inn – Pg 55 Chef Profi le



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Gomshall Mill – Gomshall ............63Gorgeous Gerties – Dorking .........49Gossip Bar & Lounge – Leatherhead ....20Green Rooms, The – Godstone ......50Griffi n, The – Brentford ...............67Half Moon, The – Charlwood .......64Hampton, The – Hampton ............29Hare & Hounds – Rowledge .........70Hare & Hounds, The – Osterley ....15Hilton Cobham – Cobham ............36Hurtwood Inn, The – Peaslake ......20Italian Concept – Egham .............40Jack’s Kitchen – Surbiton ............25Jolly Farmer, The – Worplesdon ...13JRC Global Buffet – Croydon .......74June 8 Café & Bistro – Epsom .....46Kempton Park Racecourse – Sunbury ...23King & Queen, The – Caterham ....54King’s Head, The – Guildford .......52L’Affamato – East Molesey ..........39La Barbe – Reigate ......................38La Buvette – Richmond................39Le Salon Privé – St Margarets .....37Linden Restaurant – Camberley ....10Lion & Lamb Cafe – Farnham ......13Market Stores, The – Reigate .......15Meejana – Weybridge ..................37Mill at Elstead, The – Elstead ........72Mill, The – Shottermill ................50Mulberry Restaurant – Weybridge ...17Mulberry, The – Farnham ............26Mute Swan, The – East Molesey ...61Nelson Arms – Farnham ..............66No 97 – Surbiton ........................16Noah’s Ark, The – Lurgashall.........8Oak Room, The – Stoke D’Abernon ...4Olivo – Guildford .........................44One Over The Ait – Brentford .......14Park Hatch, The – Cranleigh ........11Park Hotel, The – Teddington .......24Percy Arms, The – Chilworth .......27Petriti’s – Molesey .........................5Pheasant, The – Buckland ............59Pickled Pantry – Surbiton ............46Plough Inn, The – Coldharbour.....57Plough at Effi ngham, The – Effi ngham ...8Plough, The – Redhill ...................64

Positano – Guildford ....................44Potters Steakhouse & Bar – Mytchett ...32Prince Albert, The – Twickenham ...76Prince Blucher, The – Twickenham ....58Prince of Wales, The – Surbiton ...16Prince’s Head, The – Richmond ....66Queen’s Head, The – Kingston ......54Red Bar & Lounge – Dorking .......25Red Lion – Redhill .......................66Red Lion, The – Bletchingley ........53Red Lion, The – Godalming ..........58Red Lion, The – Shamley Green ....28Red Peppers – Esher ....................35Red Peppers – Teddington ............35Refectory, The – Milford ..............63Rialto Lounge – Dorking ..............41Richmond Vault – Richmond ........22Running Horses, The – Mickleham ...30Saffron Summer – Chessington ......5SEASONS Café & Kitchen – Woking ...47Seven Stars, The – Leigh .............68Slug & Lettuce – Staines-upon-Thames ...26Smok’d – Kingston .......................22Snooty Fox, The – Shalford ..........48Spaghetti Tree – Walton-on-the-Hill ...43Spice Guru – Reigate ...................73Spotted Dog, The – Dorking .........62Spring Grove, The – Kingston.......16Stein’s – Kingston .......................34Stephan Langton Inn, The – Abinger Common...29Stepping Stones – Westhumble ....13Sun Inn, The – Dunsfold ...............55Sun Inn, The – Richmond .............70Swan, The – Staines-upon-Thames ...54Thai Lotusland – Farnham ...........75Tre Fratelli – Croydon ..................42Tree, The – Tadworth ...................51Turk’s Head, The – Twickenham ...58Village Brasserie – Reigate ..........73Village Inn – Sandhurst ...............67Wheatsheaf Inn, The – Haslemere ...52White Hart, The – Chobham ........69White Hart, The – Chipstead ........65White House, The – Guildford ......15William Bray, The – Shere .............6Willow Health, The – Kingston .....20

Surrey Guide 201780

Index

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