14 Feb 2008 On arrival we called to check the parking arrangements and located free parking behind the restaurant - great start :o) We were shown to a lovely room with old wood panelling, to a perfectly laid table near the window. Crisp white linen, rose pink glass chargers set the scene for a lovely Valentine's Day lunch with our friends Robin and Michele.

We opted for the Gourmand Menu @ £55 although we were very tempted by the eight course Valentine's Menu with champagne @ £65. It was possible to opt for the Menu Du Jour at £24 for 3 courses. It was explained to us that exchanging one or two of the items in the menu was perfectly acceptable. Our service was impeccable all the way through the meal. We were waited on discreetly yet shown great attention when it was required. The food was a beautifully presented work of art, tasted amazing and was delivered with the correct timing for a leisurely lunch with friends. Recommends from our meal are: Winter artichoke salad - was a delight, the quails egg and fried risotto balls were a perfect delicate balance with the flavour of the artichoke. Crab risotto with champagne foam was a great hit too. Lovely texture and flavour. Parmesan crusted scallop with curried vegetable and parsnip crisp was wonderful in contrasting taste and texture. Venison steak with beetroot and juniper berry jus, blackcurrant, chestnut and a brussel sprout was enjoyed by all. Cheese option @ £9 supplement is very extensive and served from a wonderful wood and glass display brought to the table. The aroma was tempting. Selecting 4 cheeses with the expert guidance of the waiter was a pleasure. His knowledge was extensive about taste and texture and location. Served with fine crisp wafers in a choice of flavours, the desserts were out of this world - presentation made it all the more desirable. Coffee served with a supply of delicious chocolates brought our meal to a successful end.

We did have some wine - both recommends from the sommelier and both experiments for us. We had a bottle of Lebanese white and followed through with a full bodied red. Sorry to admit - I can't remember the names of either bottle - I do remember that they were perfect to compliment the meal. We are so impressed with this restaurant - we felt it only fair to write this review and allow them to gain recognition for their excellence. I know we will be back again - next time it will be dinner and we will take on the wonderful taster menu... Steve and Julia