Kings Arms Cookham - (Near Berkshire, South East)

Henry What makes a good restaurant? Clearly food will feature somewhere on your list and in the case of The Waterside this takes the form of classic French cooking. Nothing is “deconstructed” or designed to surprise. You know exactly what you’re getting from the menu and if you’ve visited previously you probably even know what you’re going to order before you arrive. Nothing is intended to shock. Far too many restaurants at all levels feature a talented kitchen team let down by their front of house. From the moment you arrive here everyone knows what they are doing and wants to make your visit as enjoyable as they possibly can. They’re not trying to trip you up, you don’t have to be fluent in gastronomy or know anything about malolactic fermentation. The sommelier is there to help, not to test. No one is judging you although I’d be lying if said we didn’t people watch our fellow diners a little. You are family when dining at The Waterside, it’s not in any way stuffy or starched. That’s not to suggest service is casual, seamless would be my best description with teams assembling when required to reveal your next course before melting away again to leave you to your conversation. The Waterside is a happy place. My memory of the venue is that it’s a bit dated, the phrase “Chinese restaurant” was used as we drove there but things have quietly evolved. It’s actually quite smart these days. The bathrooms are modern and fresh, the soft furnishings crisp and comforting with a nod to the history of the venue. Let us not forget this is an institution woven into the fabric of British restaurant history.

Tom Foxwell Just had dinner, it was amazing. Food and service were top notch. Definitely a repeat, limited menu choice which I’m a fan of. Also potions aren’t huge so you can enjoy 3 courses, although I’m still quite full. Wine options were good, really lovely evening.

Rosh C Our favourite Chinese restaurant (by far) in Berkshire, situated in the beautiful town of Cookham a walk away from the National Trust Cookham Marsh. The food is great, very reasonably priced and the service is good. They do get very busy so make sure you book tables ahead of time, especially on weekends. This isnt your usual greasy takeaway spot, its a proper restaurant (that also offers takeaway) with ample seating for larger parties and authentic tasting food. Highly recommend.!

jksphoto Best breakfast in Maidenhead. Weve been coming to Flavios for years now, love the food, service and their large cups of tea. Noticed that its always busy now especially at weekends, so well worth calling to book a table.

James Richings One of the best! I am a bit tentative when it comes to Thai food as its not my go-to cuisine, but my experience at Anong was fantastic. Kitthey, and her staff were very cordial, we had plenty of good chats as we had someone with an allergy at our table, they were so helpful in what we could order. The chicken and prawns were excellent, and the mixed platters were also very good.

Hélène C Extremely happy with the buffet menu. The plant-based options were exquisite. The area booked for us for my milestone birthday was lovely. The fireplace was a nice touch. Thank you so much!