Sultania Motel and Catering

Set in a picture perfect spot on a bank of the Thames, this long-standing bastion of culinary excellence continues to go from strength to strength. Luxury is at every turn, from the finest crockery to indulgent ingredients, and this, combined with the effortless service, creates a truly memorable dining experience. The menu lists newer creations alongside the French classics, with the kitchen’s exceptional craft on display throughout – be it in a sublime lobster jus or a textbook 'quenelle de brochet à la Lyonnaise'.

For more than three decades, Heston Blumenthal and his team have blazed their own idiosyncratic trail at this iconic restaurant, where emotions and memories play a vital role. The dishes bear all the Heston hallmarks: innovative, playful and multi-sensory – epitomised by ‘Beside the Sea’, where headphones play the sound of seagulls, and 'Off to the Land of Nod', a nostalgic dessert involving Horlicks, an eye mask and edible 'pillows'. Crucially, for all its originality, the cooking also showcases harmonious and utterly delicious flavours and textures. A large, charming team guide you through t

Set in the Thameside village of Bray, this sweet, quintessentially English inn is best known as Heston Blumenthal’s informal dining option – but that doesn’t make it any less enticing. Concise menus offer time-honoured British dishes presented in a clean, modern style, with punchy flavours and the occasional playful element. The combinations work beautifully and dishes are executed with the utmost precision – look out for the delicious Bakewell tart in particular. Service is relaxed and friendly, and the atmosphere buzzes with the sound of contented diners.

Your visit here will be an instantly enjoyable one thanks to the genuine warmth and friendliness of owners Daniel and Margriet. They are natural hosts, providing attentive service while making all their diners feel at ease. The setting for their endearing hospitality is a charming 17th-century former coaching inn that retains many of its original features. The cooking itself consists of eye-catching dishes that are refined yet hearty, showcasing carefully crafted, classic combinations which burst with natural flavours – like the terrific prune soufflé with Armagnac Anglaise.

You can't keep Alain Roux away from the banks of the Thames. Up the road from his famous Waterside Inn, he owns this contemporary brasserie and cocktail bar in a similarly pleasant riverside setting. The skill and confidence of the chefs is evident across the menu of traditional French and other European dishes, particularly in classical elements like the rich, meaty sauces. If you're lucky, there might be a fruits de mer chalked up on the blackboard specials. Arrive early for drinks on the terrace or in the cocktail bar.

What started out as a produce shop has morphed into a bright and airy restaurant, which is run with a lovely personal touch by Wesley Smalley as he cooks at an on-view island kitchen. As its name and history suggests, seasonal ingredients are the foundation of the cooking, put front and centre in assured, colourful dishes that carry an appealing clarity of flavour. Regular supper evenings offer tasting menus inspired by the produce of the moment, while they still offer the 'dine at home' boxes they've done since day one.

Charm and character can be found in every pore of this delightful 16th-century inn with low ceilings and a cosy atmosphere. Experienced chef Simon Bonwick is now at the helm, which means classical dishes packed with honest, hearty flavours and seasonal goodness, be that Salcombe crab with cashews and apple or Highland beef with his signature ‘rather nice sauce’. The entire experience is wholesome, welcoming and a simply lovely time. For something different, book the Troublesome Lodger private dining experience in The Snug, decorated with Bonwick’s own art.