24 BACK ROADS GREAT BRITAIN
Where to Eat
Britain’s love affair with food has bloomed in recent years, inspired
by TV chefs and innovative restaurateurs, and there is an enticing
array of top-notch eating places at all prices. At the top end, British
chefs are racking up Michelin stars in village restaurants, and there
are countless fun, fashionable eateries with international themes
as well as impressive gastro-pubs that won’t break the bank.
Menus increasingly feature local, seasonal produce, and there are
shops and markets where you can stock up on gourmet goodies.
But never fear – traditional favourites such as cream teas and fish
and chips are as popular as ever, too.Practical Information
A full cooked breakfast at your
guesthouse or hotel can set you up
for the day – and don’t be afraid to try
local specialities such as black pudding
(blood sausage), kippers (split, smoked
herring) or Welsh laverbread (minced
seaweed). Lunch is usually served from
noon until 2 or 3pm; in smaller towns,
restaurants and cafes may stop serving
at 2.30pm. Dinner is the main meal of
the day in Great Britain. Restaurant
opening times vary widely. Most open
at 6 or 7pm. In larger towns and
tourist areas they may serve until 10
or 11pm, but in smaller towns and
villages they often close at 9pm, with
last orders half an hour earlier. Many
pubs serve bar food from lunchtime
until 9pm. High-end restaurants often
close one or two days per week
(usually Mondays), but many smaller
establishments in busy areas stay
open seven days. Off the beaten track,
they may close out of season. It’s
always wise to phone ahead.
Credit cards are widely accepted,
but pubs, tea shops and take-away
establishments may take cash only.
Tax is always included in the bill, but
the service charge varies. If it is added,Above Sign listing the food and facilities of the
Castle Coffee House, Dunsterit will be listed separately on the bill; if
it isn’t, leave 10–15 per cent for the
waiting staff. You can also leave an
extra tip for excellent service.
Casual dress is acceptable in most
restaurants, though you may want to
dress smartly for more expensive
establishments. Most places are
wheelchair accessible, but check in
advance for older buildings. Some
upmarket restaurants may not
welcome children under a certain
age. Children are allowed in pubs with
their parents until 9pm; look for those
which are family friendly with gardens
and play areas. Smoking is banned
inside all restaurants and bars.
Menus are generally displayed
outside beside the door or window
and fine dining establishments usually
offer a set-price (prix fixe) menu as
well as à la carte. These can be great
value, especially at lunchtime, and
allow you to enjoy a top restaurant
at an affordable price.chandeliers. Famous chefs run top
restaurants specializing in seafood,
game or local produce all around the
country, and you’ll need to book well
ahead to get a table. Look for quality
symbols such as the Taste of Scotland
restaurants, which feature creative
menus based on regional produce.
Nearly all restaurants feature at least
one vegetarian option, usually more.
Fine dining establishments have full
wine lists, and often feature a wide
selection of whiskies and other spirits.
Ethnic restaurants and those
specializing in European cuisine are
popular around the country. Along
with a multitude of Indian and
Chinese restaurants, you’ll find Italian,
French, Greek, Turkish, Polish, Spanish,
and many other offerings.Restaurants
Restaurants in Great Britain run the
gamut from cosy, casual eateries to
impressive dining rooms with
beautifully laid tables and crystalPubs and Bars
Many pubs offer simple, inexpensive
meals at lunchtime and usually in the
evenings, too. Shepherd’s pie, lasagne,
fish and chips and ploughman’s
lunch (cheese, bread and pickles) are
standard offerings. Sunday lunch is
popular at many pubs, often with a
carvery serving roast meats, Yorkshire
pudding (batter) and vegetables.