Newbury restaurants recognised in UK’s top 100 lists
West Berkshire’s restaurants and pubs have been ranked among the best in the country in national lists.
Both The Woodspeen and The Vineyard have made Squaremeal UK’s Top 100 list – an annulled list celebrating independent restaurants outside of London.
With thousands of reader votes and expert critics, Squaremeal restaurant guide seeks to reflect the country’s diverse dining scene while keeping affordability in mind.
The Vineyard at Stockross came second on the list with its dishes being described as “beautifully executed”.
Squaremeal’s description states: “This luxurious five-star hotel is also home to an elegant restaurant with one of the most extensive wine lists in the country.
“Seasonal dishes are beautifully prepared by Executive Chef Tom Scade.”
Vineyard Marketing and Sales Director Sarah Pankerd said: “Following the devastation caused by Covid, we are very proud to be recognized as one of the top restaurants in the country.
“Being recognized with a spot in Square Meal’s Top 100 Restaurant list is a tremendous achievement for Executive Chef Tom Scade and his team, who work tirelessly to provide diners with the ultimate dining experience.”
She added: “Tom has also been working behind the scenes to create a brand new five-course tasting menu showcasing the best of the season’s ingredients, with a pinch of inspiration from our California winery.
“Of course there is also a vegan version paired with wine.”
The Woodspeen was also ranked 37th in the top half of named restaurants.
The restaurant guide said: ‘The Woodspeen, championing no-frills dining, has earned him a Michelin star.
“Sip a glass of wine from the chic wine list in the design-led dining room makes the whole experience feel extra special.”
The Woodspeen on Lambourn Road is a Michelin-starred 19th-century farmhouse owned by Westbury Street Holdings Restaurants.
WSH Restaurants Managing Director Alex Fasoli said: “I am incredibly proud of the team at The Woodspeen; Her culinary dedication and attention to detail is unrelenting.
“Last year we had an incredibly successful year that brought back memories for many guests and provided great hospitality.
“Many thanks to all our guests for the loving support.”
Another restaurant in Newbury was recognized as one of the top gastropubs in the country in a national listing with The Newbury.
The Bartholomew Street pub was ranked 91st in a longer list of mentions in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs Awards.
The website states: “In the heart of Newbury, the pub that bears the Berkshire town’s name hides a secret from shoppers who pass its door.
“As you climb the stairs you will find a spacious covered roof terrace, a pleasant extension of this modern pub which was taken over in 2022 by James Allen who runs the Fox Inn in the nearby village of Hermitage.
“Chef Cleston Dsouza leads the team in the kitchen and serves stylish pub classics, steaks and seafood dishes.”
