Nandos Taplow - Bishop Centre - (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.

Tabitha Cole Food was really, really good. We went on a Saturday where there was live music too which was nice if you are into it. It felt like a really lively place for the size. Service was really good too. Couldnt fault it really. Its not cheap but the quality was great.

Chanté B From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with a warm smile and a friendly welcome from a team member named Lance. He sat us down, asked about any allergies, and explained that due to my allergy, we would need to order at the till as part of their policy. I appreciated the care and clarity. The manager who took our order was absolutely lovely, and throughout the evening Lance—as well as other staff members—checked in on us from time to time. Every team member we encountered was exceptionally fantastic. I really enjoyed my dining experience here. Thank you

marianne klien Wonderful lunch today with my husband at Skindles. We had a fabulous table by the river on a glorious summer day and the whole experience was utter perfection. Cookie served us and was brilliant! Nothing was too much trouble and he was great fun whilst making sure we had everything we could possibly need. Incredible prawn cocktail and smoked salmon starters followed by a very special superfood salad and fish main course. We will be back very soon and hopefully be looked after by Cookie again!

Wendy Crook We have just enjoyed a 2 night stay here and everything was superb! Staff were very polite a credit to you. Room was lovely and a wonderful cosy atmosphere in lounge/bar area. We will definitely stay here again when next in area. Thank you for Prosecco!

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!