The Hinds Head - (Near Berkshire, South East)

5 /5 Andrew Booth: First and foremost, this is a quintessential British pub which just happens to have a Michelin star. The bar area is cosy and there’s a good selection of reasonably priced drinks. On a Friday evening the place was full of locals which was great to see and had a really nice atmosphere. The signature triple cooked fish and chips were amazing and the best I’ve ever had- it’s worth visiting just for these! The staff were friendly and down to earth which added to the laid back pub vibe. The prices are very reasonable given the quality, I can’t wait to return.

2 /5 Simon Morris: Well what a surprise. We have been huge fans of Heston and visitors to the Fat Duck previously. I have to say that our evening in the Hinds Head was very odd!! The meal was actually very good and the staff at the tables were attentive and the food was of a good quality. When it all fell down unnecessarily was at the end of the evening. We had just finished our dessert at 22:30 on a Friday night. Two of our table asked for a port to finish off and the other two were still finishing their cheese. At 22:40 we asked for the bill and two liquors but were told “sorry last orders had passed and we cannot serve alcohol”. Obviously confused by this we asked to speak to a manager. When she finally turned up at the table we were told the licence only ran until 23:00. Bear in mind this was still 22:50 and we had asked some time ago. I can honestly say that I have never in a UK restaurant or pub been refused service before 22:45 on a Friday night. Let alone when I had just spent over £600 for a meal for 4 people. All I can say is, if this was my establishment I would be petrified at the attitude towards customer service from the person who appeared to be in charge. Which is very sad as the rest of the team seemed to be of a very good standard. Poor judgement at the top can quickly bring down a restaurant….

5 /5 Giuseppe La Loggia: We went to the Macallan Burns Night Whisky Masterclass at The Hind’s Head and chose the option with the full Macallan flight. It was genuinely excellent. Everything felt relaxed but very well put together. The Macallan host was knowledgeable without being overbearing, and the tasting was interesting even if you already know your whisky. The flight itself was superb and really well matched to the food. The five-course menu was a highlight — classic Scottish dishes done properly and with care, not gimmicky. The haggis was far better than expected, and the lamb was outstanding. Service throughout the evening was friendly, attentive and never rushed. The bagpiper and addressing of the haggis gave the night a real sense of occasion without it feeling forced. Ending with the Macallan whisky gum was a fun, unexpected touch. Overall, it felt like a special evening rather than just a themed dinner. Excellent value for the quality, and absolutely worth doing.

3 /5 Darryl Hall: An honest review, of a place that has clearly seen the last of its better days half a decade ago. Ive not been here for a few years, and used to frequent quite a bit when I worked a lot nearby. First hand, experience coming back after a few years the special quality has disappeared. Not to mention the actual food they decide on the day to give you! The food we had was to be fair nice, on presentation you will be shocked by the size of portions. Because you already know going into the Hinds that you are paying the Blumenthal brand tax. To then take half the portion size expectation away on top, I would suggest really is taking the mickey out of its patrons. The portions used to be bigger, a lot bigger! They have been trimming away portion sizes for years at this point. The scotch egg. What on earth happened to this once legendary larger item you could enjoy in place of a real lunch, alongside a pint of whatever. The £8 scotch egg has become a supermarket picnic egg. And no longer holds much virtue. The steak, I cant think of smaller steak I have had in my life. There is a reason for not placing the ounce size aside the printed menu. I would reckon 4oz at a stretch? So understand that you are paying close to double on top, of the already high brand tax on this item. It is nice though, cannot fault the taste of this food. Service was inattentive, despite the amount of staff and lack of customers. Perfectly lovely and pleasant when about. But had no presence for most of the meal. If you were in a restaurant in central London with these sorts of prices, youd have an almost personal service. As I said, I think the food was nice. Nothing truly special. But very nice all the same. I would rate it above the average gastropub. But if you are looking to come away feeling somewhat like you ate something (after paying Id average £100 minimum per head for a 3 course w/ drink) then this is not the place for you.

5 /5 Georgina Rose: We’re regulars at this Michelin-starred pub and it never disappoints. The roast beef is outstanding, and the runny Scotch egg is a must-order starter every time. Taylor provides exceptional service—friendly, attentive, and genuinely welcoming. He really elevates the whole experience. A brilliant place made even better by great hospitality.