With a shared passion for good food and warm service it was only natural for Simon and Kate King to open 1861 Restaurant and the rest, as they say, is history. Yes, there is history in evidence everywhere, for one the building, dating back to 1861, resembles a Victorian station and is surrounded by a white picket fence, and inside is simply decorated with wooden beams, whitewashed walls and dark-wood tables.

Each dish on the menu is a paean to the supplier and you are informed that lamb arrives from Park Farm, Llantillio Crossenny, free-range duck from Madgetts Farm, Chepstow and some vegetables from Kate's father's garden too! Dishes are well judged for balance of flavours and textures, and this is true of the amuse-bouche of tomato and chive jelly as well as the pressed pork terrine, fillet of sea bass in a champagne cream, and hot chocolate soufflé with Bailey's ice cream.

The jolly bubbles of a J M Gremillet N V Brut selection are undeniably the highlight in 1861's concise wine list.