Waterside Inn - Oxford, UK

My first time at a Michelin starred restaurant, and the Waterside Inn did not disappoint. I was lucky enough to be treated by a special friend who knew the Waterside well. We went as a table of three, and sat at a beautiful large round table. So much space. I loved the little 'footstool ' next to each chair which was ideal on which to place your handbag so you don 't have to bend to the floor when you need it. It 's the little things in life... Staff were incredible, so attentive, not overbearing, always there to top up your glass before you even knew it was needed, impeccably dressed, and knowledgable of the food and wine. The meal was stunning, everything I 'd hoped for. The photos peak for themselves. Would I go back? In a heartbeat...

For Christmas 2022, unbeknown to each other, my wife and I bought each other the same present vouchers for an overnight stay at The Waterside Inn and Le Menu Exceptionnel. It’s such a special place and we both love it here. We booked our first visit during the summer last year and have just enjoyed our next visit. Both visits, it must be said, were amazing, as always, and the complimentary room upgrade was a lovely surprise. The staff are attentive but not intrusive and the food as you would expect is sublime. We especially enjoyed the duck consommé under a puff pastry crust (my wife had hers without the foie gras). The only observation I would make is if you buy a voucher for a gift ensure there has been no price increase between the time you purchase it and the time you use it. Only the monetary value of the voucher at the time of purchase is honoured. The vouchers come in a lovely presentation wallet and you just assume you are getting what it says on it. When we settled our bill I queried a £60 additional charge and after a somewhat embarrassing 10 minutes or so (as no one seemed to know why this had been added) we was informed the menu had increased by £30 to £265 pp. Unfortunately I didn’t see this in the t&c’s but do feel it is not the best policy to enforce upon guests, at least without prior explanation.

Had a free Sunday and fancied a good lunch. So called up on the off chance they would have a table for one at any point during the day. And to my luck and surprise within minutes they offered a time and I got on my way. As every other time being here it’s such a wonderful place to eat, even as a solo diner on this occasion. Again as always staff, without fault outstanding and the food well, not one bad thing to say! ALWAYS WORTH THE !!

Having read a few reviews here, I was worried that Waterside Inn had passed its hey day and that it would not be worth the extravagant cost. I need not have worried! Everything was exceptional- from being greeted to when we pulled up, our room was ready 45mins early, the room itself was large and comfortable. And then the restaurant and the food! It was phenomenal. We took the recommendations of our server for the signature dish of lobster. There is a reason it’s been on the menu since the 80s. Then the need and the soufflé. It was all wonderful. We are already talking about when we return.

As usual, Alain and his team serve the most wonderful meal with first class service. Stayed overnight with family in the beautiful riverside rooms.