Nestled in Berkshire, the village of Bray boasts two renowned three-Michelin-starred restaurants, offering food enthusiasts a unique dining experience amid picturesque scenery.
In the heart of Berkshire, just a short journey from the hustle and bustle of London, lies the serene village of Bray, a location that has become synonymous with culinary excellence. This picturesque village, situated on the banks of the River Thames, hosts two of the United Kingdom’s esteemed three-Michelin-starred restaurants, solidifying its reputation as a haven for food enthusiasts.
Bray’s culinary scene is led by The Fat Duck, the brainchild of renowned chef Heston Blumenthal, celebrated for his innovative and boundary-pushing approach to gastronomy. Since its opening nearly three decades ago in this quaint English village, The Fat Duck has garnered international acclaim for its avant-garde menu and unique dining experience, which draws inspiration from Lewis Carroll’s ‘Alice in Wonderland’. The restaurant encourages diners to reimagine their perceptions of food through aptly named dishes such as ‘Sound of the Sea’, ‘Crab Ice Cream’, and ‘Like a Kid in a Sweet Shop’. Diners can indulge in these unusual yet captivating offerings for prices starting from £275 to £395 per person. The Fat Duck’s journey to Michelin stardom was swift, obtaining its first star in 1999, the second in 2002, and the prestigious third star in 2004.
In addition to The Fat Duck, Blumenthal’s influence extends to his other restaurant, Dinner by Heston in London, which holds two Michelin stars, and The Hinds Head in Bray, known for serving classic British pub fare in a historic setting.
A stone’s throw from The Fat Duck lies another pillar of Bray’s gastronomic fame, The Waterside Inn. This illustrious establishment was founded by the legendary Roux brothers, Albert and Michel Sr., whose culinary prowess also birthed the famed Le Gavroche in Mayfair. Since opening its doors, The Waterside Inn has been under the stewardship of Michel Sr.’s son, Alain Roux, since 2002. It holds the distinction of being the only restaurant outside France to have retained three Michelin stars continuously since 1985, a testament to its sustained excellence. The Waterside Inn’s menu features an array of sophisticated dishes such as Duo of Scottish langoustine tartare, Poached medallion of monkfish, and Merrifield Farm duck breast, with prices ranging between £190 to £240 per person for two or three courses.
Bray’s allure extends beyond its restaurants, offering scenic experiences such as a Thames river cruise, providing visitors with a beautifully serene backdrop to complement their culinary journey. The village’s proximity to Windsor adds further appeal, combining gourmet dining with the charm of nearby historical attractions.
This quaint village, with its rich culinary heritage and scenic views, continues to captivate visitors from around the world, solidifying its place as a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the art of fine dining.
Source: Noah Wire Services
Image: The Fat Duck