1665 Brasserie at The Mitre

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

The menu strikes a balance between comfort and polish. A bacon-wrapped terrine teams up with red currant jelly and brioche; Scottish scallops land with cauliflower cream, crisp pancetta and a slick of sherry vinegar caramel. From there, it’s a happily mixed bag -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 who prefer comfort without compromise.

Starters keep the welcome casual: grilled flatbread, or baby calamari dusted with pink peppercorn and served with wasabi–soy mayo and burnt lemon. A thoughtful wine list and crafted cocktails, from a classic negroni to an impeccably balanced Margarita, suit both terrace sunsets and dining room glow; truffle and parmesan fries or garlic buttered new potatoes make easy company.

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.