Move over cupid – Sophie Farrah sets her sights on some of the most romantic spots for date night, Valentine’s Day or simply ‘just because’…
Grand gestures
Le Petit Nantais
Established in 1997, this family-run, fairy-lit restaurant near Hampton Court in East Molesey is a traditional and incredibly romantic French bistro. Expect crowd pleasers such as steak frites, onion soup, lobster and more, plus a few contemporary twists. Oh la la indeed.
The Oarsman
With cosy, atmospheric interiors, this contemporary bistro and elevated pub in Marlow serves sophisticated seasonal dishes. Highly rated by critics and locals alike, it’s an atmospheric spot that takes food seriously.
Kinghams Restaurant
Dating from the 17th century and with a wealth of charm, multi award-winning Kinghams offers refined food and cosy, characterful interiors. It’s set in the picture-perfect Surrey Hills village of Shere – perfect for a romantic stroll before or after your meal.
Rick Stein, Barnes
With sweeping views of the Thames and towers of fresh oysters and chilled Champagne, this stylish riverside restaurant in Barnes is a match made in Valentine’s Day heaven.
rickstein.com/restaurants/rick-stein-barnes
Riverhouse Restaurant
In Richmond, Bingham Riverhouse’s glorious river views and stylish interiors would make anyone feel amorous, whilst head chef Vanessa Marx’s delicious ‘feel good food’ is guaranteed to get hearts racing.
binghamriverhouse.com/dine/riverhouse-restaurant
Shambles
This beautiful spot on Teddington High Street serves excellent seasonal food, fresh pasta and over 40 wines by the glass. A roaring fireplace, exposed brickwork and colourful fabrics give it an irresistibly romantic, cosy feel.
Starling
Great British Menu star Nick Beardshaw opened his debut restaurant in Esher last year. Enjoy his innovative spins on classic plates and as-seen-on-TV dishes, all served in a chic, contemporary setting. Don’t miss the Banksy-inspired Balloon Girl dessert, which features an edible red heart, no less.
Pushing the boat out
The Waterside Inn
If you want a real treat, book a table at Alain Roux’s three-Michelin-starred inn on the banks of the Thames in Bray. This long-standing bastion of culinary excellence goes from strength to strength and offers an unforgettable gastronomic experience with oh-so romantic river views.
Petersham Nurseries
One of London’s most unique dining destinations, the iconic Richmond restaurant’s flower-filled, fairy-lit greenhouses are perfect to snuggle up for a delicious Italian-inspired meal. Book well in advance.
Latymer
Awarded a Michelin star and five AA Rosettes, Latymer is an exquisite experience from start to finish. Woo your Valentine over six courses plus snacks at dinner (or four at lunch), each one crafted to perfection and served in a historic, opulently furnished wood-panelled room within the luxury Surrey hotel, Pennyhill Park. Explore more Michelin-star restaurants nearby.
The Dysart
Housed in a delightful Arts and Crafts building close to Richmond Park in Petersham, The Dysart’s Michelin-star menu is guaranteed to impress. Ask for a table by the flickering fireplace or underneath the restaurant’s magical starry ceiling.
The Tudor Pass
With just seven tables set within a historic, tapestry-clad dining room, The Tudor Pass is a Michelin-star dining experience with a wow factor. Situated within the luxury Egham hotel, Great Fosters, you can expect plenty of impressive food theatre.
alexanderhotels.co.uk/great-fosters/food-drink/the-tudor-pass
The Dining Room at Cliveden House
Treat your loved one to the elegance and romance of a bygone era at the luxury Berkshire hotel, Cliveden House. Filled with fine art, grand period features and crisp white linen, the elegant Dining Room looks out over the 19th-century parterre, glorious gardens and the Thames.
Woven by Adam Smith
The spectacularly designed restaurant at Ascot Country House Hotel, Coworth Park, offers an unforgettable dining experience. From the strikingly modern interiors, top-notch service and creative dishes, it ticks all the boxes for a very special night out.
dorchestercollection.com/ascot/coworth-park/dining/woven-by-adam-smith
Date night done right
Ma Cuisine
This lovely little French bistro in pretty Kew Village will transport you to Paris. Start with an aperitif before tucking into delicious plates of comforting French cooking.
Nags Head
Following an extensive refurbishment, the Nags Head Inn in Woking has reopened with a sophisticated new look. A new menu features a variety of pub classics with a modern twist, as well as premium ingredients and interesting flavours inspired by the seasons.
L’assaggino
Tucked away in Richmond’s characterful lanes, this tiny little Italian is the epitome of romantic. Roses adorn the tables, candlelight flickers, and reliable Italian classics are served. Don’t miss the homemade tiramisu...
Zeitoun
Spice things up at this bright and modern Claygate restaurant, which offers a contemporary twist on the Lebanese dining experience. The menu offers a huge range of mezze, both hot and cold.
Harty’s
By day, this lovely café and deli on White Hart Lane in Barnes serves (great) coffee and sandwiches, and by night, it transforms into a cosy neighbourhood wine bar with cheese boards and charcuterie to share.
Positano
Tucked away in the centre of Guildford, Positano is perfectly primed for amoré. Here, Italian classics are served amongst atmospheric wooden beams, red banquette seats, crisp white linen and candlelight.
Plate at no 6
Located on a picturesque cobbled lane close to Windsor Castle, this small, chic restaurant is filled with trailing plants, modern furniture and a cosy, welcoming feel. The menu offers an array of flavoursome Mediterranean tapas, ideal for deux.
