TASTING NOTES
Take this away
Cote Windsor
Côte at Home, the home delivery of the very best of quality French cuisine, has launched its mouthwatering autumn menu. The luxury delivery service has established a reputation for its range of premium steaks and meats, prepared in its own butchery and expansive selection of artisan French cheeses. The new value boxes are all combinations of the new dishes but as two or three courses (all with dessert, some with starters).
Good sports
The Jolly Sportsman
Publicans Debs Wilbee and Ben Stenning of The Jolly Sportsman in Chesham received Punch Pubs & Co’s award for Best Entertainment and Sport at their Oscar-style ceremony recently. Passionate about creating a sense of community, The Jolly Sportsman was recognised for being an all-round favourite for both entertainment and sport. From weekly quizzes, karaoke, darts, and pool to their popular reggae BBQ, the Chesham local has heaps of personality and is renowned for the variety of events it displays each month.
Chart topper
Siren Craft Brew
Reading-based Siren Craft Brew has donated £10,000 after achieving its unique ‘Lumina Hour’ goals. The brewery, known for its adventurous and creative beers, set out to get its Lumina Session IPA pouring in 1,000 venues across the country and at the same time, aimed to trend on UK Twitter/X. Thanks to a swell of support from the beer community, #LuminaHour trended number 5 in the UK Trends charts in late summer – 1 place above WWE Smackdown, which was filming live in the UK at the time. Donations have been made to Make A Wish Foundation, Launchpad Reading and Lymphoma Action UK – a mix of causes chosen by the Siren team.
Full bodied
The Oarsman
The Oarsman BistroPub & Wine Bar is proud to announce its autumn menu, showcasing a commitment to sustainable and environmentally conscious dining. Under the expert guidance of Head Chef Scott Smith, The Oarsman embraces the philosophy of “nose to tail” cooking, exemplifying a dedication to culinary excellence that leaves a minimal ecological footprint. In an era where sustainability is paramount, The Oarsman stands at the forefront of responsible dining practices. Chef Scott Smith’s “nose to tail” approach epitomises the ethos of utilising every part of an ingredient, reducing waste, and honouring the integrity of the ingredients themselves.
Tea time
Royal Berkshire
What better time of year to get dressed up on a wintry afternoon for a decadent afternoon tea? With festive decorations and fireplaces crackling away, a warm and inviting atmosphere awaits for your indulgent afternoon tea at the Royal Berkshire. Available throughout December, make sure to book in so you don’t miss out, £42 per person.
Just Desserts
Three local favourites to mark British Pudding Day on 9 November
Haute Dolci
Indulge in the art of desserts only at Haute Dolci. They take immense pride in their handcrafted selection of desserts, from cakes, cheesecakes, fluffy pancakes, indulgent cookie dough, to other exquisite confections.
Creams Cafe
Embodying the fun, colourful and delicious, Creams Reading offers the ultimate wow-factor experience. At the centre lies our unmissable selection of mouth-watering, freshly made desserts, from waffles, crêpes and sundaes, to cakes, sorbets, gelatos and vegan desserts.
Heavenly Desserts
Designed to delight your senses, the menu at this Slough institution continues to innovate dessert dining using only the finest ingredients. With flavours ranging from classic to contemporary, their desserts deliver a dining experience like no other.
