Waterside Inn, The

The Waterside Inn is located alongside the River Thames, with a room that links the river and dining into one harmonious whole. To be entertained there is one of the classic experiences that should not be missed. Opened by Michel Roux, who already owned Le Gavroche in London with his brother Albert, his has been one of England's top restaurants for many a year now.

The cooking is a confident statement about what the restaurant thinks its clients value and they are spot on. This measure applies to everything; nothing is neglected in the desire to please. Excellence at this level does not arrive cheaply.

Whilst the menu exceptionnel at £83.50 sounds incredibly expensive, the five course dinner selection could include dishes like pan-fried escalope of foie gras with soft white beans and wild mushrooms, citrus sauce; followed by lobster medallions with a white port sauce and ginger flavoured vegetable julienne; granité of passion fruit and white rum, then roasted leg and best end of milk lamb with seasonal vegetables and a minted hollandaise sauce, and finish with a selection of wonderful French cheeses or warm golden plum soufflé.

House wine starts at around £25, but they have an undoubtedly fine choice, at prices to match.