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. The extensive refurbishment in 2010 saw the addition of a superb Studio Guest Accommodation Suite with rooftop views to Windsor Castle.

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 after fourteen years in the wine trade, has started his own very dynamic wine company - The Vintner. The list changes frequently with exciting new additions from around the world as well as the French classics.

The Modern British 'a la carte' menu, with its emphasis on seasonal ingredients, has been designed by Head Chef Amaury de Oliveira and his talented team. There's a choice of at least seven starters prime among which would be the seared scallops, crab and lemon tian with carpaccio of smoked tuna and fennel chiffonade, or chicken liver parfait with curried chicory chutney, toasted walnut and raisin bread.

The affair with fresh and seasonal ingredients continues with the main courses, resulting in such delicious fare as roast Barbary duck breast with butternut and potato gratin, cavolo nero and candied orange; 7oz sirloin steak with green peppercorn sauce, chips and rocket, and tomato fondue tarte tatin with crème fraîche and basil mousse and melted gorgonzola.

The dessert list is very appealing, featuring such delectable confections as a lemon tart with vanilla ice cream, or dark chocolate truffle marquise with spiced mango compote and coconut sorbet. If you find more savoury delights tempting, there is a selection of British cheeses served with celery, chutney and biscuits.

In addition to this, there is an excellent value Set Menu available from Monday-Saturday lunchtime and Sunday-Thursday evening from 6.00pm. On Friday and Saturday evenings it is available between 6.00 - 7.00pm. This menu is ideal for a quick bite before a visit to Windsor Theatre, concerts at Eton College or St George's Chapel Windsor Castle and the races at Windsor Racecourse.

Afternoon tea is available in the weekends between 3.30pm - 5.30pm on Saturday, and on Sundays at 4pm - 6pm. For those who prefer something savoury there is also their afternoon 'grazing' menu.

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 sixteen, 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.