Gilbey's Bar & Restaurant - Eton

Close to the river on the Eton side of Windsor Bridge, Gilbey's Bar & Restaurant is located between the historic buildings of Eton College and Windsor Castle. The light and airy restaurant and conservatory lead on to a picturesque courtyard garden - a haven of tranquillity for summer dining, yet only a stone's throw from the bustle and excitement of nearby Windsor. This site has now been run continuously by the Gilbey family since 1975.

They are now spreading their buying net for their wine list much wider by enlisting the help of Tom Gilbey (Bill and Caroline's son, who runs a very successful wine importing company called Jascots). They have a full carte, which changes twice a year, and are able to introduce lots of new wines from throughout the world (not forgetting their established French classics). They are ringing the changes much more than they used to and the selection process is an ongoing fascination. There is always a good and frequently changing selection available by the glass and 50cl carafe.

The Modern European 'a la carte' menu, with its emphasis on seasonal ingredients is designed by Head Chef Amaury Oliveira and his talented team. There's a choice of at least eight starters prime among which would be the pan seared scallops with ratatouille and mussels and a chive emulsion, crispy smoked ham hock with orange marinated sweet potato, carrot and coriander salad, or the braised duck and mushroom remoulade with roasted fig and marinated grilled salsify and toasted brioche.

The affair with fresh and seasonal ingredients continues with the main courses, resulting in such delicious fare as the pan-fried Loch Duart salmon and king prawns with julienne vegetables and marjoram rice, roast rump of lamb with pea and mint puree, Swiss chard and pommes Anna and a succulent roast fillet of pork with new season's carrots, braised potatoes, apricots and onion relish.

The dessert list is very appealing, featuring such delectable confections as pistachio profiteroles with elderflower chocolate sauce, a tangy Gilbey's lemon tart with vanilla ice cream, luscious bannoffi pie with honey milkshake and an unusual peanut butter and chocolate brownie parfait with butterscotch ganache. If you find more savoury delights tempting, there is a selection of British cheeses served with fruit chutney and biscuits.

In addition to this, there is an excellent value Set Menu available every lunch time and early evening from 6-7 pm. This menu is ideal for a quick bite before the theatre, concerts or the races at Windsor Race Course.

Do click on their Website, which always features the up to date menus and pictures of the restaurant and private dining room.

This is also a wonderful venue for private parties both large and small. The upstairs private dining room, which seats a maximum of fourteen, is perfect for both private and corporate entertaining as well as intimate reception parties. The friendly and helpful staff have a great reputation for their caring and organisational skills.