The Boathouse Amberley: A Riverside Haven Serving Mediterranean Flavours With Sussex Soul

As the leaves tumble from the trees and autumn rolls in, The Boathouse Amberley is setting the stage for a season of flavour, atmosphere, and community. 

Perched on the tidal River Arun in the heart of the West Sussex countryside, this independent restaurant and bar is fast becoming the riverside retreat for locals and day-trippers alike.

Created by seasoned restaurateurs Jasper Gorst and Jamie Sherriff, The Boathouse blends over two decades of London hospitality know-how with a deep love of food, travel, and storytelling. 

Every detail, from tables carved out of a single Lebanese Cedar to Kuba cloth from Africa and a bar crafted from an genuine old lock gate, brings character and soul to this truly unique space.

A Menu that Sings of the Med, though Rooted in Sussex

The Boathouse's kitchen celebrates the best of land, sea, and season, with Mediterranean-inspired dishes designed for sharing and savouring. Guests can look forward to:

Fish so fresh it was landed that very morning

Sussex-grown Nutbourne tomatoes, picked at their sun-ripe peak

Handmade pasta rolled daily in-house

Wood-fired pizzas which are already a firm local favourite

A hand-picked wine list featuring boutique finds and rare reserves

A Riverside Escape, All Year Round

Open Thursday to Sunday for lunch and dinner (Autumn-Winter hours), The Boathouse invites guests to drop in for cocktails and pizza or linger over a leisurely Sunday lunch with sweeping river views. This winter, Sunday Roasts will take centre stage, showcasing premium cuts from trusted UK and Irish farms.

Events to Warm the Season

Beyond the menu, The Boathouse is crafting experiences:

Soulful Sundays with local DJs for the perfect wind-down afternoons.

Exclusive wine-tasting dinners hosted by the producers for the curious and the connoisseurs.

Plus, cameos from beloved neighbours like Barry the Goose and the occasional seal named Henry, adding their own charm to riverside life.

Follow along on Instagram and Facebook for event details, behind-the-scenes stories, and a flavour of what makes The Boathouse more than just a restaurant, it's a riverside community. And it's close to Amberley train station.

https://www.theboathouseamberley.co.uk

Prezzo Italian launches "The One Million Pound Giveaway" across UK Restaurants

Prezzo Italian is launching its biggest ever promotion  - The One Million Pound Giveaway. Guests dining all across the UK have the chance to win a share of over one million pounds worth of prizes, just by enjoying a meal.

Starting today! Dine at a Prezzo Italian restaurant and every table will receive a scratchcard along with the bill, scratch to reveal your prize, which can be redeemed on your next visit.

Prizes will include:

£30 off food

40% off the whole bill

£50 eGift card which can be used across your whole bill

Free starters and desserts

And many many more surprises 

Whether it's a casual catch up over a bowl of pasta or celebrating a special occasion with a delicious pizza and prosecco, every visit has a chance to win.

Naddy Onions, Marketing Director Prezzo Italian told That's Food and Drink: “We wanted to give back to our loyal customers, but in a fun, memorable way. The One Million Pound Giveaway brings an extra layer of joy to the dining experience — and ensures every visit feels truly rewarding. A guaranteed win at every table!” 

With over 120,000 prizes up for grabs  there's no better time to enjoy a warm Italian welcome and to dine with us. This Autumn, enjoy Italian classics such as the tastiest pasta, gooey delicious Arancini, our crunchy loaded Bruschetta, freshly-made pizzas and desserts that you simply won't want to miss. 

To find your nearest restaurant and make a booking, visit www.prezzo.co.uk

This year, Prezzo has rebranded to 'Prezzo Italian' - the home of Italian classics.For a list of local restaurants, please visit here: https://www.prezzo.co.uk/search/ 

https://www.prezzo.co.uk/about/one-million-pound-giveaway/

Cow & Sow Revolutionises Customer Loyalty With "The Butcher's Club": A Seamless, Wallet-Based Membership Scheme

Cow & Sow, the acclaimed steak restaurant, today announced the official launch of "The Butcher's Club", its innovative, wallet-based membership scheme, marking a new era in customer engagement within the hospitality sector. 

The programme has already seen remarkable success, attracting over 600 members within 10 days from launching, underscoring the demand for modern, friction-free reward solutions and exclusive experiences.

"The Butcher's Club" redefines the traditional loyalty card by operating entirely as a phone wallet-based system, eliminating the need for a separate app. Guests simply scan their digital wallet pass on every visit to "earn & burn" rewards, making the process incredibly convenient and seamless. 

Adding to the fun, all guests are invited to 'Spin the Wheel' upon signing up and after each subsequent visit, with a guaranteed win of 1 in 6 exciting rewards for their next visit.

"We believe loyalty should be effortless and genuinely rewarding," Mark Warburton, founder of Cow & Sow, told That's Food and Drink. 

"With 'The Butcher's Club', we've leveraged COMO's technology to create a subscription programme that integrates directly into our guests' digital lives, offering instant benefits and exclusive experiences without the hassle of another app download. 

"The incredible response of 600 sign-ups in our first 10 days demonstrates how eagerly our customers have embraced this innovative approach." 

The programme offers a tiered subscription membership structure, catering to various levels of engagement:

The Apprentice Butcher: Free to join for all, providing a welcome 'Spin the Wheel' (1 of 6 instant win rewards), early access to new menus and special events, monthly member-only rewards and perks, and a free drink on your birthday.

The Journeyman Butcher: A premium tier at £40 per month subscription via direct debit, offering all Apprentice benefits plus a branded Cow & Sow hoodie welcome gift, a complimentary single-cut steak of the month (with side & sauce), and a bottle of Cow & Sow Malbec every month. Perks are valued at over £80 per month plus a £40 sign-up gift.

The Master Butcher: The top tier at £65 per month subscription via direct debit, includes all Apprentice benefits, a branded hoodie and two wine glasses as a welcome gift, a monthly complimentary sharing steak (with 2 sides & sauces), a monthly bottle of Cow & Sow Malbec, a bottle of Henners Sparkling Wine on your birthday, priority WhatsApp concierge & fast-track booking, and exclusive tasting & feedback events invites. Perks for this tier are valued at over £130 per month plus an £80 sign-up gift.

The Business Ambassador: Join their waiting list for this exclusive, invite-only scheme designed for local businesses, offering tailored rewards and incentives for corporate clients and their employees. Contact anna@thecowandsow.co.uk to learn more.

Through 'The Butcher's Club,' Cow & Sow is committed to turning great meals into unforgettable experiences for its regular guests, offering a dynamic array of rewards, promotions, and incentives. Members can use their benefits at all Cow & Sow locations, including Birmingham, Bristol, and Clifton sites.

FACTFILE:-

Cow & Sow: Cow & Sow is a leading B-Corp certified steak restaurant dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences across its locations in Birmingham, Bristol, and Clifton. Known for its commitment to quality ingredients, outstanding customer satisfaction, and ethical business practices, Cow & Sow continues to innovate within the hospitality sector. The restaurant focuses on sourcing high-quality produce and creating memorable dining moments that encourage repeat visits and foster a loyal customer base.

Mark Warburton: Mark Warburton is the visionary founder of Cow & Sow, driving the brand's growth and its innovative approach to hospitality. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing Cow & Sow as a respected name in the steak restaurant industry. For more on Mark Warburton's journey, please visit: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/timeline-mark-warburton

B-Corp Certification: Cow & Sow is proud to be a B-Corp certified business, demonstrating its commitment to meeting high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency on factors from employee benefits and charitable giving to supply chain practices and input materials. This certification reflects Cow & Sow's dedication to balancing profit with purpose, using business as a force for good. For more on Cow & Sow's journey as a responsible business, visit: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/cow-sow-journey

The Butcher's Club: Learn more about the membership scheme and sign up: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/butchersclub

Partnerships: Explore Cow & Sow's various local business and VIP schemes: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/partnerships

The Business Ambassador: Contact anna@thecowandsow.co.uk

Website: https://thecowandsow.co.uk

Social Media:

https://www.instagram.com/thecowandsow

https://www.tiktok.com/@thecowandsow

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowbirmingham

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowclifton

https://www.facebook.com/cowandsowqueensquare

SW16 Bar & Kitchen Puts English Wine in the Spotlight This English Wine Week

Streatham Hill's favourite neighbourhood restaurant, SW16 Bar & Kitchen, is making some waves this English Wine Week with a bold celebration of British vineyards and seasonal British produce, showcasing how a local restaurant can redefine destination dining.

Once a modest bar on Streatham Hill, SW16 has evolved into one of South London's most exciting culinary spots. 

Led by 25-year-old hospitality rising star Tom Small, the restaurant has built a well-deserved reputation for heartfelt service, sustainability, and honest, flavour driven food that speaks for itself.

Now, with a bespoke tasting menu and curated wine pairings featuring standout producers such as Hundred Hills, Whitewolfe Estate, and Davenport Vineyards, SW16 is bringing English wine to the forefront of the local dining scene.

“We've gone from barely stocking English wines to proudly serving Welsh orange wine and Cornish Pinot Noir,” Small told That's Food and Drink.

“What's exciting now is the story behind each bottle, family businesses, biodynamic pioneers, vineyards thriving thanks to climate change. This is wine worth that's well worth discovering.”

Guests can enjoy a special two or three course tasting menu created by Head Chef Teddy Karkut, paired with Tom's handpicked selection of English wines. The menu, which includes standout dishes including scallop ceviche and british rump steak, captures the essence of SW16's ethos: seasonal, Quality ingredients and always local.

SW16 has recently gained acclaim for its monthly Italian Supper Club:

“SW16 is already a beloved local spot, but this supper club made it feel like a destination.”

“The Supper Club, Offers locals another reason to fall in love with this restaurant”

“SW16 is a dining spot hidden gem”  

This same energy is being poured into English Wine Week, a showcase not just of great bottles, but of a restaurant pushing boundaries in local dining. 

With intelligent, thoughtful pairings, a focus on independent producers, and a commitment to genuine hospitality, SW16 is proving that you don't have to leave your postcode for a world class food and wine experience.

Tom Small is available share his expertise and comment on:

English Red - Is it worth it?

How English farmers are selling livestock and planting vines. Climate change and how it's already begun to change our agriculture.

English wine, is it genuinely accessible for the restaurant trade?

The English obsession with wine. Why do we have more Masters of Wine than anywhere else in the world?

Wine influencers, and why they're important for the new generation of wine rookies, geeks and fledgling sommeliers. 

https://sw16barandkitchen.com

Are PR Companies Paying for Fake 5-Star Restaurant Reviews? Here's How to Spot Them

I recently received a WhatsApp message asking me if I wanted to make some 5-star reviews on certain restaurants. I wouldn't have to visit the restaurants, just make Google reviews and I would be paid for my time. 

I am an official Google reviewer and I value my status as a Google reviewer and would do nothing to jeopardise this by making fake paid for reviews. I blocked the PR firm concerned. But this got me thinking about the entire fake reviews industry which made me decide to write this blogpost about this issue.

In today’s digital age, the star rating next to a restaurant’s name can make or break its success. With Google, Trustpilot, Yelp, and TripAdvisor shaping public perception, many consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. But what happens when those glowing reviews are not genuine?

The uncomfortable truth is that some PR agencies and marketing firms are paying for fake 5-star reviews to boost a restaurant's reputation. Whether it's a brand-new bistro trying to build credibility fast or an established chain attempting to drown out negative feedback, fake reviews are more common than many realise. And this doesn’t just hurt competitors — it misleads diners and undermines trust in the entire review system.

Why Would PR Firms Pay for Fake Reviews?

PR and marketing agencies are hired to generate positive buzz — and in a competitive food industry, pressure to deliver quick, measurable results can tempt some firms to cross ethical lines. Instead of focusing solely on authentic coverage, some resort to purchasing fake reviews through review farms, incentivising “customers” with discounts or freebies in exchange for positive feedback, or even writing the reviews themselves using fake profiles.

This kind of manipulation might temporarily boost a restaurant's online reputation, but it can lead to long-term consequences, including:

Loss of consumer trust

Penalties from review platforms

Reputational damage when exposed

How to Spot Fake Restaurant Reviews

As a savvy consumer (or a fellow restaurateur), here’s how you can identify potentially fake reviews:

No customers but many 5-Star reviews?

1. Too Many 5-Star Reviews All at Once

If a restaurant suddenly gets dozens of five-star reviews within a few days — especially when it’s newly opened or recently received criticism — that’s a red flag.

2. Generic or Vague Language

Genuine reviews tend to reference specific dishes, staff interactions, or atmosphere. Fake reviews often use vague, overly enthusiastic phrases like “Absolutely amazing!” or “The best restaurant ever!” without providing meaningful details.

3. Reviewer Profiles with No History

Click through to a reviewer’s profile. If they’ve only ever posted one or two glowing reviews — or they’ve left similar praise for multiple unrelated businesses — they may not be legitimate.

4. Overuse of Keywords

PR-driven fake reviews often read like SEO content. Watch out for unnatural repetition of the restaurant name, menu items, or phrases like “best Italian restaurant in London”.

5. Inconsistent Language or Style

Fake reviews might be generated using AI tools or written by non-native speakers. If the writing style is inconsistent or awkward across several reviews, it may indicate they’re not genuine.

6. Lack of Negative Feedback

Even the best restaurants occasionally receive 3 or 4-star reviews. If a place only has glowing feedback and no constructive criticism, it could be suspicious.

What Review Platforms Are Doing About It

Platforms like Google, Trustpilot, and TripAdvisor are investing in AI and moderation teams to detect and remove fake reviews. Some even take legal action against businesses or agencies that engage in fraudulent behaviour.

However, enforcement isn’t perfect. The responsibility also lies with consumers and ethical PR professionals to report suspicious activity and support honest businesses.

What Can Restaurants Do Instead?

Ethical marketing wins in the long run. Here’s how restaurants can build trust the right way:

Encourage genuine customer reviews via in-store signage or follow-up emails.

Respond to reviews — both good and bad — showing that feedback is valued.

Work with PR agencies that prioritise transparency and integrity.

Final Thoughts

Fake reviews may offer a short-term boost, but they’re a risky gamble. As consumers become more discerning and platforms grow more sophisticated, honesty remains the most sustainable strategy.

So next time you're scrolling through five-star reviews, take a moment to dig a little deeper — your next great meal (or PR investment) might depend on it.

SquareMeal announces UKs Top 100 Restaurants for 2025

Sat Bains

The UK’s top and fully independent restaurant guide, SquareMeal, has announced the best restaurants that the UK has to offer. SquareMeal’s UK Top 100 is the only list of its kind to exclude London’s restaurants - allowing the wider UK’s dining scene to shine forth.

Using a combination of thousands of reader votes and SquareMeal’s own expert reviewers and food critics, the UK Top 100 Restaurants list is a true reflection of Britain’s beautifully varied dining scene.

A spokesperson explained to That's Food and Drink: "Every year we are genuinely thrilled to see thriving restaurant scenes in UK cities that rival anywhere else in the country. 

Birmingham leads the way with five restaurants in the list, including two in the top 10 in 2022 champion Grace & Savour, and two Michelin-starred Opheem. 

This year's highest new entry in the UK Top 100 is Tom Barnes' magnificent Manchester restaurant Skof, which heads up a big year for Manchester, with Higher Ground, Another Hand, and The Sparrows all representing the city in the list.

As ever, Scotland has also established itself as a world-class food destination, and we saw three new Edinburgh entries all break into the upper echelons of the UK Top 100 list this year - Stuart Ralston's superb new restaurant Lyla at number 11, and Montrose and Fhior at 33 and 34 respectively - joining another seven Scottish restaurants in the list. 

Other powerhouse culinary counties like North Yorkshire, Cumbria and Berkshire are also well represented, but fifteen counties are represented across the whole list, showing that there are great restaurants spread all over the UK.

A special mention must also go to this year's highest riser, Kevin Tickle's Heft in Cumbria, which blew us away this year and jumped 54 spots from 72 last year to 18 in 2025.

Nottinghamshire restaurant named the best in the UK.

In the UK, the number one spot for 2025 goes to Restaurant Sat Bains, where chef Sat Bains and his team deliver an exceptional dining experience.

Chef Sat Bains tells us: “We are honoured to place top in this brilliant list of restaurants. We strive for both consistency and relevance, continuously innovating what we do and how we do it to be the best we can, spotlighting some of the country’s best produce in all its glory. After 25 years of dedication to our concept and little pocket of Nottingham we are of course humbled to place No1 in the UK.”

Originally the Hotel de Clos, Bains relaunched the hotel as Restaurant Sat Bains in 2002 and won his first Michelin star a year later with intricate modern British tasting menus. Two decades later the set up is rather different - the restaurant boasts its own urban kitchen garden now, as well as an al fresco courtyard, lounge bar and a number of rooms for overnight stays - but the philosophy is the same - to make guests feel as though they have had a completely unique experience.

Not only has Restaurant Sat Bains set the standard for fine dining in the UK for well over a decade, it has also proven to be a breeding ground for superb chefs - the likes of Gareth Ward at Ynyshir, Alex Bond at nearby Alchemilla, Niall Keating at Luna and more have passed through this kitchen over the years, going on to hold Michelin stars of their own.

SquareMeal’s Managing Editor, Ellie Donnell explains: “It feels extraordinarily telling that Sat Bains' eponymous two Michelin-starred restaurant has been trading for 25 years. The UK's dining scene becomes more competitive year on year, so for the team to be celebrating a quarter of a century pays real testament to its enduring relevance.

“Sat's creative tasting menus are brave and unique - taking risks that pay off and interweaving clever surprises - but more importantly they celebrate the joy of eating thanks to a deep-rooted understanding of flavour developed over decades. A huge congratulations to the team!”

The full list can be viewed here:- https://www.squaremeal.co.uk/restaurants/best/uk-top-100-restaurants_238

The Looming Crisis: High Energy Costs Threaten Britain's Beloved Pubs and Restaurants

In the heart of every British city, town and village, you'll find a quintessential institution: the pub. These cozy corners of community life have been the backdrop for countless gatherings, celebrations, and heartfelt conversations for many centuries. 

Similarly, restaurants across the nation offer a diverse array of culinary delights, drawing locals and tourists alike to savor their unique flavours. However, beneath the convivial atmosphere and gastronomic delights lies a looming crisis that threatens to dim the lights of these cherished establishments: the soaring cost of energy and the crushing weight of the cost of living crisis.

Britain's pub and restaurant sector has long been an integral part of our cultural fabric, but recent challenges have pushed many establishments to the brink. Among the most pressing issues is the relentless rise in energy costs. From heating to lighting and kitchen appliances, energy is a vital component of daily operations for pubs and restaurants. However, the sharp increase in energy prices in recent years has placed an unprecedented strain on businesses already grappling with thin profit margins.

The cost of living crisis further compounds these challenges. As the prices of essentials such as food, fuel, and housing continue to escalate, consumers are left with less disposable income to spend on dining out or enjoying a pint at their local pub. This has led to a decline in footfall and a reduction in consumer spending, further squeezing the already tight margins of pubs and restaurants.

One of the most visible impacts of these challenges is the closure of beloved establishments. According to recent reports, hundreds of pubs and restaurants have closed their doors for good in the past year alone, unable to withstand the financial pressures exacerbated by high energy costs and the cost of living crisis. Each closure represents not only the loss of a business but also the loss of local jobs and the erosion of community spaces that play an essential role in bringing people together.

Moreover, the ripple effects of these closures extend far beyond the doors of individual establishments. The hospitality sector is a significant contributor to the British economy, providing employment opportunities for millions of people across the country. The closure of pubs and restaurants not only results in job losses but also disrupts supply chains and affects ancillary businesses that rely on the patronage of these establishments.

So, what can be done to support Britain's struggling pubs and restaurants in the face of these challenges? First and foremost, urgent action is needed to address the root causes of the crisis. Government intervention to mitigate the impact of soaring energy costs through targeted subsidies or tax relief measures would provide much-needed relief to struggling businesses. 

Similarly, measures to alleviate the burden of the cost of living crisis, such as increasing wages or reducing VAT on hospitality services, could help stimulate consumer confidence and spending and bolster the resilience of the sector.

Furthermore, collaboration between industry stakeholders, policymakers, and energy providers is essential to develop sustainable solutions that ensure the long-term viability of Britain's pub and restaurant sector. This may involve investment in energy-efficient technologies, promoting renewable energy sources, and exploring alternative business models that prioritise sustainability and resilience.

Ultimately, the fate of Britain's pubs and restaurants hangs in the balance. As cherished symbols of community and tradition, they deserve our support and protection in the face of mounting challenges. By addressing the underlying issues of high energy costs and the cost of living crisis, we can ensure that these vital institutions continue to thrive for generations to come. The time to act is now, before it's too late to save the heart and soul of Britain's culinary landscape.

The Vital Role of Hygiene and Cleanliness in Pubs and Eating Establishments

In the vibrant ambiance of pubs and dining places, where laughter mingles with the clinking of glasses and the aroma of delicious food fills the air, one crucial aspect often takes a backstage: hygiene. 

While the atmosphere and culinary delights are undoubtedly crucial for creating a memorable experience, the significance of proper hygiene cannot be overstated. From preventing the spread of illnesses to fostering a welcoming environment, maintaining cleanliness is paramount in these establishments.

Public Health Protection

First and foremost, proper hygiene practices are essential for safeguarding public health. Pubs and eating establishments serve as gathering spots for people from various walks of life, making them potential hotspots for the transmission of infectious diseases. Without stringent hygiene measures in place, the risk of contamination increases exponentially. From foodborne illnesses to viral infections, the consequences of neglecting cleanliness can be severe, not only for patrons and staff, but also for the reputation and viability of the establishment.

Customer Satisfaction and Reputation

Moreover, maintaining high standards of hygiene is integral to ensuring customer satisfaction and building a positive reputation. Patrons are not only drawn to establishments for their menu offerings but also for the overall experience, which includes cleanliness and hygiene. 

A spotless environment instills confidence in customers regarding the quality and safety of the food and beverages served. Conversely, reports of unhygienic conditions can spread rapidly through word-of-mouth or online reviews, tarnishing the establishment's reputation and deterring potential customers. For example wiping down all the tables in an eating establishment with the same soiled rag will probably worsen the situation.

Legal Compliance

Adhering to hygiene regulations isn't just a matter of goodwill, it's a legal obligation. Health and safety standards are established by regulatory authorities to protect public health and ensure compliance with hygiene practices. 

Failure to meet these standards can result in fines, closure orders, or even legal action, posing significant risks to the business. By prioritising hygiene and complying with regulations, pub and restaurant owners demonstrate their commitment to operating responsibly and ethically.

Employee Well-being

Proper hygiene isn't limited to the cleanliness of the dining area; it also encompasses the sanitation practices within the kitchen and among staff members. Providing a hygienic work environment is essential for safeguarding the health and well-being of employees. 

Regular training on hygiene protocols, access to necessary supplies such as gloves and disinfectants, and maintaining clean and organised workspaces are crucial for promoting a culture of hygiene among staff members.

Sustainable Practices

In addition to promoting health and safety, adopting proper hygiene practices can also contribute to sustainability efforts. Minimising food waste, responsibly managing resources such as water and energy, and implementing eco-friendly cleaning products are integral components of a holistic approach to hygiene. By incorporating sustainable practices into their operations, pubs and eating establishments can reduce their environmental footprint while enhancing their reputation as socially responsible businesses.

In conclusion, the importance of proper hygiene in pubs and eating establishments cannot be overstated. From protecting public health and ensuring customer satisfaction to complying with regulations and promoting sustainability, cleanliness is integral to the success and longevity of these establishments. 

By prioritising hygiene and implementing robust protocols, pub and restaurant owners can create safe, welcoming environments where patrons can indulge in memorable culinary experiences without compromising on health and well-being. After all, in the realm of hospitality, cleanliness truly is next to godliness.

(Image courtesy of Achim Thiemermann from Pixabay)

SquareMeal announces London's Top 100 Restaurants

SquareMeal has announced the best restaurants London has to offer in 2024. SquareMeal’s London Top 100 shines a spotlight on the capital’s greatest places to eat, as voted for by both critics and diners.

Using a combination of thousands of reader votes and the opinion of SquareMeal’s own expert critics, the London Top 100 Restaurants is a true reflection of the city’s beautifully varied dining scene. The list features everything from fine dining experiences through to gastropubs and everything in between. Each restaurant is truly unique but all have one thing in common - an unmissable experience.

Shoreditch restaurant Lyle’s named the best in London

SquareMeal’s Best Restaurant in London title went to Lyle’s - a restaurant that needs little introduction. Celebrating its tenth birthday this year, Lyle’s has evolved from a young, brash newcomer to one of London’s most recognisable and essential modern restaurants, reflecting a 30-place rise from last year’s list to take top spot in 2024.

The serene whitewashed interiors belie the technical precision going on behind the scenes, where James Lowe and team weave their magic. Lyle’s is also home to an exceptional non-alcoholic drinks offering - another sign that this trailblazer remains one of London’s most innovative restaurants too.

SquareMeal’s Managing Editor, Ellie Donnell, explains, ‘London's restaurant scene moves very quickly, which is why our Top 100 Restaurant lists become more important every year. They allow us to pause and reflect on the incredible restaurants from the year prior - both new and old - while giving those at the height of their culinary careers the time and attention they deserve.

‘In Lyle's, we have a restaurant that has not only stood the test of time, but continues to push the boundaries of what modern British food means today. James and his team have managed to capture the very essence of casual fine dining in a truly timeless restaurant, where a focus on UK-grown produce, exceptional plates and friendly service will never go out of fashion. Bravo!’

You can check out the full listing here https://www.squaremeal.co.uk/restaurants/best/londons-top-100-restaurants_262

(Image courtesy of Laurie Fletcher Photography) 

SquareMeal tells you the top 100 eateries in the UK

The UK’s leading independent restaurant guide, SquareMeal,has announced the best restaurants the UK has to offer. 

SquareMeal’s UK Top 100 is the only list of its kind to exclude London’s restaurants, allowing the wider UK’s dining scene to truly shine through.

Using a combination of thousands of reader votes and SquareMeal’s own expert critics, the UK Top 100 Restaurants list is a true reflection of Britain’s beautifully varied dining scene, featuring an eclectic mixture of everything from fine dining experiences through to farm-to-table restaurants and gastropubs.

Northumberland restaurant named the best in the UK

In the UK, the number one spot for 2024 goes to restaurant Pine in Northumberland, where chef duo Cal Byerley and Ian Waller deliver an exceptional culinary odyssey in a renovated barn.

The attention to detail is breathtaking, but despite the precision of the cooking, Pine remains incredibly laid back and fun , a testament to the charm of this wonderful team.

Pine is run by Cal Byerley and wife and front-of-house manager Sian, plus head chef Ian Waller and his partner and head sommelier Vanessa Stoltz.

"We're absolutely thrilled and honoured to be recognised as the best restaurant in the UK by SquareMeal," said Cal and Sian. 

"This achievement is a testament to the extraordinary dedication and talent of our exceptional team, whose passion and commitment to excellence has brought us to this incredible accomplishment."

Says SquareMeal’s Restaurants Editor, Pete Dreyer: "Restaurants never cease to amaze us, every year we're blown away by talented teams, who always seem to find new, innovative ways to push the boundaries of food.

"As always we're so grateful to everyone who works in hospitality, and we're forever in awe of the passion and love that goes into restaurants up and down the country. A huge thank you also to the thousands upon thousands who voted to support their favourite restaurants this year.

"In Pine we have a true trailblazer leading from top spot. The team sticks resolutely to sustainable principles, but is constantly striving to produce unique and exceptional dishes. Adventurous, entertaining, and absolutely impossible to pigeon hole, Pine is unquestionably one of the very best restaurants in the country."

To view the full listing click on this link https://www.squaremeal.co.uk/restaurants/best/uk-top-100-restaurants_238