As shared and recommended by our brilliant Purple Kaboodle Test Valley Network, below are all the restaurants recommended by the growing Facebook community when asked:
What are the current recommendations for a meal out locally for a special occasion
If you are not a member already, and would like to join (for free), please come and find us, by clicking on the Facebook link above and request to join this really helpful community of people asking for and sharing local recommendations!
The Greyhound on The Test, Stockbridge
The Greyhound on the Test has links back to the 1800s; the name dates back to the use of greyhounds to hunt, or course, hares. It is now a prominent feature on Stockbridge High Street and is a name synonymous with outstanding quality and excellent service.
Black Rat, Winchester
The Black Rat Restaurant was converted from a pub into a quaint and quirky restaurant that is situated on the fringe of the town centre, along Chesil Street. A year after opening, the team acquired one of the most prestigious accolades in catering, a Michelin Star.
Chesil Rectory, Winchester
This double-gabled wattle and daub house dates from the 15C and its characterful interior takes in heavily beamed ceilings and a large inglenook fireplace. Appealing menus offer classic British dishes with the odd Mediterranean touch.
Yew Tree, Highclere
The Yew Tree Inn is a delightful 17th century country pub with rooms and excellent dining situated in the lovely English countryside, moments from Highclere Castle. Just 15 minutes from Newbury and Andover, The Yew Tree has over many years built a reputation within the local community and further afield for its high standard of food and service.
Kyoto Kitchen, Winchester
Not essentially smart, but a very good Japanese to throw into the mix!
Kyoto Kitchen offers a wide selection of menus that both tempt and delight. Specialising in Sushi and Sashimi, their menu contains many different dishes that will introduce you to specialist Japanese cuisine.
Lime Wood, Lyndhurst
Hartnett Holder & Co is the relaxed, stylish and comfortable restaurant at Lime Wood- full of character, yet unpretentious. Angela Hartnett and Lime Wood’s Luke Holder, with their team, create locally sourced Italian dishes with a respectful nod to the seasons. Their food comes with the much loved Italian approach to eating – where sharing and provenance is everything.
The Harrow, Little Bedwyn
The Harrow at Little Bedwyn was set up 18 years ago by Sue and Roger Jones, received its first Michelin Star in 2006 and has retained the Star every year since. As well as receiving worldwide accolades for its food, The Harrow has also been critically acclaimed for its 900 bin Wine List.
The Woodspeen, Woodspeen Nr Newbury
Opened in October 2014, The Woodspeen restaurant is set in the beautiful west Berkshire countryside near Newbury. They serve seasonal food, sourced locally wherever possible, and in some cases grown by them, right here in their gardens. With friendly service, exceptional food, stylish bar and a light, airy restaurant, a warm welcome awaits you at The Woodspeen.
Clos du Marquis, Stockbridge
Clos du Marquis is an award winning French restaurant nestled on the London Road just outside Stockbridge. With the quaint and evocative small beamed dining rooms, be assured of a relaxing and immersive dining experience, complimented with a fantastic a la carte menu and diverse wine list.
