Nestled in the village of Shinfield, this vintage red-brick vicarage now known as L'Ortolan has been home to many gastronomic power players over the years - from Nico Ladenis to John Burton-Race and Alan Murchison. The latter has now left the Michelin-starred restaurant, but the kitchen continues to run in the same vein as before with talented head chef Tom Clarke still holding the reins in the kitchen. The Grade II-listed building is still basking in the glow of a bold, no-expense-spared makeover, which has resulted in a clubby lounge, a summery conservatory overlooking the grounds and a smartly attired, sober dining room.

Menus follow the fixed-price format; 'gourmand' dinners offering a choice of up to seven courses, while lunch remains an undoubted bargain; the 'chef's table' is also becoming a sell-out attraction. Innovative contrasts and impeccable presentation are his trademarks, bolstered by a liberal helping of luxury ingredients: lobster cannelloni with langoustine tails and Périgord truffle sauce makes a dazzling starter. Elsewhere, the choice ranges from John Dory poached in red wine with spring greens and cockle sabayon to loin of venison with braised red cabbage, blackberries and sauce 'grand veneur'. Prune and Armagnac soufflé is one of the simpler desserts and the well-bred wine list roams far and wide, picking up excellent selections along the way.

L'Ortolan is also featured in: Michelin Guide, Good Food Guide, Hardens, AA Guide

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Modern French

Tom Clarke

Lunch: 12.00 - 2.00pm Tue-Sat
Dinner: 7.00 - 8.30pm Tue-Thu (7.00 - 9.00pm Fri- Sat)

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• Disabled access
• Partial disabled access
• Private dining room
• Private parties
• 64 covers

Private parking is possible at a location nearby

Formal