Thatch, The

The Thatch has an interesting recent history to add to its ancient origins way back in the 16th century. Many will recall the BBC2 show, The Restaurant, which culminated in the renovation of The Thatch as the prize won by Jeremy and Jane Hooper, who moved in in November 2008. Following their decision to move back to Cornwall partly for family reasons but also to open a restaurant there, a new team from the award-winning Peach Pub Company moved in last year.

General manager Frazer Sutherland has worked everywhere from the dizzy heights of the OXO Tower, London and The Summit in Sydney and is now, with his team, working his magic in Thame. In charge amongst the stoves is Ross Whitmill, a real professional, who has been with Peach Pubs at The Swan, Salford for three years where his food attracted rave reviews. Again, with family interests in mind Ross became keen to move to Oxfordshire hence his arrival at The Thatch.

The Thatch opens at 10am daily, serving coffee and cake, with hot food available from noon onwards.  The all-day menu served from noon to 6.00pm includes an express menu for those on the move, with a good range of sandwiches as well as hot meals.

Their renowned deli board is also available with cheese, charcuterie, antipasti, fish and bread offering a rich harvest of tasty bites at £1.75 a go. Or take the easy route and ask the staff to make up your own board at great value for £8.75 served with rustic bread and chutney. This is the perfect start in trying some of the fantastic ingredients that they take such pride in sourcing, and a splendid way to chill out after a hard day before getting down to the meal.

On their menu, you will find the very best quality fresh ingredients - fantastic sausages; free range chicken and eggs; simple, pan-fried fish and seafood; 28 day dry-aged Aberdeenshire steaks - sourced from producers who take pride in their products and an ethical stance in their production. The Thatch?s menu always makes the most of seasonal ingredients, (this ensures they avoid air-freighting and keeps us in touch with the cycle of the year) while combining the best of great British cooking and influences from around the world that are now part of our culture.

The à la carte menu plus a selection of great Sunday roasts is also served noon - 4pm and 6.30 - 9.30 on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The all day menu is not available on a Sunday.

Pubs are so much concerned with food these days that it is sometimes easy to forget their traditional function in life, to provide a comfortable place in which to drink. A short but very serviceable wine list packs in quality and variety, described in the 2008 Michelin Guide as 'small but well-chosen with a decent selection by the glass'. Well-kept real ales and continental lagers keep the long thirsts contented, and premium spirits hit the spot when needed.

To help you keep an eye on developments at this highly attractive country pub/restaurant a quick click on the Website will reveal all. You might also want to consider a visit to The Thatch's sister pubs - The Old Mill in Berkhamsted and The Fishes at North Hinksey near Oxford.