The Thames Valley Restaurants

Londoners weekend here, and where they go, stellar restaurants follow. Bray (near Windsor), Marlow, and Great Milton (near Oxford) claim some excellent tables; you need to book months ahead for these. Simple pub food, as well as classic French cuisine, can be enjoyed in waterside settings at many restaurants beside the Thames. Even in towns away from the river, well-heeled commuters and Oxford professors support top-flight establishments. Reservations are often not required but are strongly recommended, especially on weekends.

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  • 1. The Fat Duck

    $$$$

    One of the top restaurants in the country, and ranked by many food writers among the best in the world, this extraordinary place packs in fans of hypercreative, hyperexpensive cuisine, who enjoy it for the theater as much as for the food. Culinary alchemist Heston Blumenthal is famed for the so-called molecular gastronomy he creates in his laboratory-like kitchen, and his name has become synonymous with weird and funky taste combinations. Famously, his signature dishes include bacon-and-egg ice cream and snail porridge. All senses are stimulated here in wildly creative ways, not just the taste buds. It's the very definition of not for everyone, but those with a taste for adventure (and deep pockets) find it a magical experience. The three-Michelin star Fat Duck is located in a discreet building in the small village of Bray; look for the duck-inspired implements hanging outside. Reservations are issued monthly for a period of four months in advance, and the booking process is strict; call or see the website for details.

    High St., Bray, Windsor and Maidenhead, SL6 2AQ, England
    01628-580333

    Known For

    • Creative and immersive dining experience
    • Strict booking process and long waiting list for reservations
    • Famed strange dishes like bacon-and-egg ice cream

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Sun. and Mon., Reservations essential
  • 2. Two Brewers

    $$

    Locals congregate in a pair of low-ceiling rooms at this tiny 17th-century establishment by the gates of Windsor Great Park. Those under 18 aren't allowed inside the pub (although they can be served at a few outdoor tables), but adults will find a suitable collection of wine, espresso, and local beer, plus an excellent menu with dishes like roasted cod with butter sauce and samphire or steak frites with brandy and peppercorn. On Sunday the pub serves a traditional, hearty lunchtime roast.

    34 Park St., Windsor, Windsor and Maidenhead, SL4 1LB, England
    01753-855426

    Known For

    • Classic, adults-only British pub
    • Traditional lunchtime roast on Sunday
    • Historic setting

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Reservations essential
  • 3. Hinds Head

    $$$$

    Fat Duck's esteemed chef Heston Blumenthal owns this Michelin-starred pub across the road, where he sells less extreme dishes at more reasonable prices. A brilliant modern take on traditional English cuisine, the menu may include roast chicken and smoked almonds, or stone bass with mussel and saffron broth. The atmosphere and dress code are relaxed, and the look of the place is historic, with exposed beams, polished wood-panel walls, and brick fireplaces. There's also a menu for kids. It gets busy, so book ahead if you can.

    High St., Bray, Windsor and Maidenhead, SL6 2AB, England
    01628-626151

    Known For

    • Famed celebrity chef
    • Historic ambience
    • Big crowds so booking ahead is smart

    Restaurant Details

    Rate Includes: Closed Mon.--Tues. No dinner Sun.
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