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hand picked restaurants

The latest acquisition by Elite Hotels is one of the more exceptional former stately homes in England. Luton Hoo changed hands in 1999 but such has been the scale of preparation that work did not start until 2005. Now complete, the hotel opened in October 2007 and is a masterpiece of what can be done in such a potentially sensitive situation.

There are two restaurants, the Adams Brasserie and the Wernher Restaurant. The latter is all set for three rosettes with Chef Ian Penn, formerly of London's Jumeirah Carlton Tower.

The table d'hote menu could include ham and parsley terrine with Dijon mustard emulsion and celeriac remoulade, followed by pave of salmon wrapped in pancetta, spring onion mash and red wine sauce. For sheer indulgence head for a dessert of white chocolate torte with brandy poached cherries.

The surroundings are sumptuous without being overpowering, but both HM The Queen and Winston Churchill are noted for selectivity in staying away from home, and they, with many Heads of State have savoured this outstanding house's charms. Some £60m has been spent in ensuring that it has regained its former panache, the Victorian golf course has had an update, and there is the now almost obligatory spa.

Nestling in acres of tranquil gardens and wooded parkland, Menzies Flitwick Manor is a classic Georgian country house hotel located near the historic village of Woburn, which boasts over 200 listed buildings, as well as stylish restaurants, pubs and shops.

You could visit the hotel to spend time in relaxation or to enjoy the sauna, a game of croquet or an intimate meal in the comfort of the AA Rosette restaurant. The décor is elegant with fine antique and period furniture and carpeted floors.

Sample traditional British fare created from local and seasonal produce, whenever possible. Start with a bowl of mussels before moving on to a lovely game terrine with homemade marmalade and toasted brioche. Mains consist of grilled fillets of lemon sole and confit of Barbary duck while desserts take in warm pecan pie with homemade vanilla ice cream.

There is a comprehensive range of wine to complement the dishes you order. Weddings and private functions are organised beautifully.

The Falcon is a large 17th century English bistro located on Rushden Road, that serves authentic British cuisine in a warm and relaxed ambience. With a rich history that can be traced back to many centuries, the restaurant is located in an old and historic building and features wood panelled walls, warm wooden furniture, muted lighting and a cosy fireplace at one end. The food specializes in traditional and time-honoured English fare with international influences blending aspects of British, Dutch, French, German and Indian cuisine.

Prepared by chef Brendan Brokensha, the à la carte menu features traditional dishes of Lincolnshire sausages served with a creamy mash, bordelaise sauce and red onion marmalade; lamb rump served on rosemary mash; and rump steak served with poached egg, thick cut chips and  peas. The international cuisine has dishes such as Aberdeen Angus on rump steak with vegetables; spinach and ricotta cream tagliatelle and various Indian curries served with rice and char-grilled pitta.

Desserts of cheesecakes and warm Belgian waffles make the meal even more interesting while the extensive wine list provides the other exciting ingredient.