City dining guide

Best restaurants in Oakham

3 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.

Michelin-starred 1

Hambleton Hall

★ Michelin££££Classic Cuisine

One of England's first country house hotels, Hambleton Hall was considered ground-breaking when it opened in 1980; a feeling of luxury still pervades today, with its traditionally styled interior enhanced by the idyllic setting on the shore of Rutland Water. Aaron Patterson has headed up the stoves since 1992 and there’s a dependability to the cooking here; accomplished seasonal dishes have a classical base with distinct flavours and plenty of modern touches. Bread comes from their own artisan bakery and the 400-bin wine list is a real labour of love.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 100 reviews

Hambleton Hall is renowned for its exceptional food quality, featuring fresh ingredients and imaginative cuisine that many guests compare to three-Michelin-star establishments. Service is generally praised for being warm and attentive, though some reviews note inconsistencies in meal pacing or minor oversights. The ambiance is elegant, highlighted by beautiful gardens and lake views, although a few visitors mentioned the interior decor could use updating or noted temperature issues in the dining room. Value perceptions vary significantly; while most experiences are positive, specific set menus like Sunday lunch have been criticized for small portions relative to cost. This restaurant suits travelers seeking high-quality dining and a refined atmosphere for special occasions, provided they verify menu details and comfort preferences in advance.

Ideal for diners seeking high-quality cuisine and elegance, with advice to check menu specifics and room temperature preferences.

Website

Bib Gourmand 1

Hitchen's Barn

Bib Gourmand££Modern British

Neil and Louise Hitchen have been working in restaurants around the world together for 20 years, with their current venture set inside this pretty stone barn. There’s a rustic quality to the décor, which pairs nicely with the lovely warm welcome given by natural host Louise and her bright young team. Neil heads up the kitchen, producing well-priced, seasonal dishes that are so appealing you might struggle to choose – go for the banana panna cotta to finish and you won’t be disappointed. The wine list is as wallet-friendly as the food.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews

Located in Upper Hambleton, Hitchen's Barn serves Modern British cuisine. Based on 80 reviews averaging 4.8/5, most guests praise the high food quality, warm and efficient service, and pleasant atmosphere, noting good value for money, particularly for family gatherings or celebrations. However, negative feedback highlights issues such as slow meal pacing, over-seasoned dishes (excessive salt), and poor ingredient execution (e.g., fatty pork). Some reviewers describe the atmosphere as soulless, citing uncomfortable furniture, lack of background music, and sticky tables. While the majority experience is excellent, individual visits may vary due to inconsistent service pacing or kitchen execution.

Suitable for families or special occasions seeking high-quality Modern British cuisine and attentive service.

Website

Other guide picks 1

Olive Branch & Beech House

£££Traditional British, Regional Cuisine

The Olive Branch is a picture-postcard village pub, with a fine stone exterior and rustic interior design that boasts the obligatory wooden beams and roaring fire which make country inns so inviting. Its cooking is comfortingly traditional in basis, with well-executed versions of confit duck leg, fish & chips and more hearty classics; local sourcing is key too, with suppliers proudly name-checked and vegetables coming from their garden. Over the road, you'll find Beech House, where guests can stay the night while exploring the surrounding countryside.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews

Located in Oxford, Olive Branch & Beech House offers traditional British and Lebanese cuisine. Reviews highlight high food quality, with dishes like Shakshuka, lamb tagine, and hummus receiving praise for their flavor and freshness. The atmosphere is generally described as cozy and welcoming, suitable for relaxation or working near the railway station. However, inconsistencies exist in service and value; some guests reported slow pacing, charges for alternative milks, and occasional rudeness from staff. While many enjoy the delicious meals and friendly environment, others experienced poor treatment, making the overall experience variable.

Suitable for travelers seeking a cozy atmosphere and authentic Middle Eastern flavors, though checking service details during peak times is advised.

Website