Stylish room for Cheltenham races

In the centre of this charming spa town you’ll find an unassuming exterior concealing an elegantly stylish restaurant. Helen runs the service and she’s a natural host, so you’ll be warmly welcomed and well looked after. Her experienced husband Jon runs things in the kitchen and his overtly seasonal cooking demonstrates impressive classical technique and attention to detail, exemplified by the expertly cooked venison with a rich red wine sauce. His more playful side comes out in the crowd-pleasing signature 'Tequila Slammer' sorbet.

For over 35 years, David and Helen Everitt-Matthias have been serving the Cheltenham dining scene with this spacious restaurant. David is in the kitchen crafting technically sound dishes that, as the restaurant's name would suggest, have one foot firmly in France. Your visit will be book-ended by a terrific bread basket and a delicious dessert; the latter has long been a real strength here, so look out for a cheesecake or chocolate delice to satisfy your sweet tooth. The wine list has plenty of depth and, like the food, is pleasantly well-priced.

In a typically charming Cotswolds market town, this long-standing neighbourhood restaurant occupies a pretty little period building that packs plenty of character into a small space. Run with a smile by a husband-and-wife team, it's a welcoming place that provides plenty of comfort with its generous cooking. British ingredients, from Salcombe crab to Cornish monkfish, underpin the well-executed dishes featuring classic combinations, such as Orkney scallop with pork belly. The concise wine list offers a nicely balanced selection.

The ‘secret’ location – revealed via clues sent to you 24 hours before your reservation – is just the start of the fun at this playful and unconventional restaurant. Once inside the exclusive-feeling dining room, sit back and watch the changing projections on the wall and let yourself be immersed as each creative, complex dish arrives. The chef’s travels are a heavy influence on the dishes, as are his experiences working at the likes of Ynyshir and The Fat Duck. Plenty of punchy flavours and relaxed, well-versed service ensure the experience is an enjoyable one from start to finish.

There’s a certain style to this two-roomed basement in a smart Georgian terrace: the colonial-themed bar offers a good range of cocktails, as well as gin and vodka infusions, while the adjoining dining room has a clubby feel, with its charcoal portraits and sepia prints. The Indian dishes are for sharing, although the 'Experience' tasting menu is perhaps the best way to go, and there are also vegetarian and pescatarian versions. They even serve an Indian-themed afternoon tea.

Located just off the main high street, this modern restaurant has a comforting neighbourhood feel – and the service is equally relaxed. Fresh seafood from Cornwall and Scotland is combined with good quality locally sourced ingredients to produce interesting, original dishes with effective contrasts of flavour and texture. The lunch menu represents great value.

A smart, stylish restaurant with smooth service from a welcoming team; start with a drink in the first floor lounge. Dishes are inspired by classic Indian flavours and textures but are presented in a deconstructed, eye-catching modern manner. The charming owner adds to the experience.