1665 Brasserie at The Mitre

Set on the Thames at Hampton Court, 1665 Brasserie at The Mitre blends centuries-old character with an easy, modern rhythm. The building may date back several monarchs, yet the kitchen remains firmly in the present, cooking seasonal, responsibly sourced British dishes with confidence rather than fuss.

Nibbles keep the welcome casual - from grilled flatbread to baby calamari dusted with pink peppercorn and served with wasabi-soy mayo and burnt lemon. The rest of the menu strikes the perfect balance between comfort and polish, with starters from a bacon-wrapped terrine with redcurrant jelly and brioche to Scottish scallops resting on cauliflower cream with crisp pancetta and a drizzle of sherry vinegar caramel.

Heartier mains include Himalayan salt-aged rib-eye with roasted bone marrow and fried onions, pan-fried halibut tucked into a root vegetable cassoulet with lemongrass oil, or Muscat pumpkin gnocchi for those seeking comfort without compromise. Truffle and parmesan fries or garlic buttered new potatoes provide effortless companions.

Warm, relaxed and right on the river, 1665 is the sort of place where time softens a little. Book a table waterside and let the evening take its own course... preferably with dessert involved!