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OpinionsNoteTripAdvisor925.0

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We had such a special lunch at Damson and couldn't recommend it more highly. The staff were incredibly warm and attentive, and the food was delicious from start to finish. We had a vegan among us and the team prepared a bespoke menu for her in advance, which she absolutely loved. Damson is such good value for money and would be great for lunch or dinner - in a couple, or a group. The menu changes frequently and we can't wait to go back!! Such a gem.

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elle s . 2024-12-01

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Once again an excellent meal with some very novel options. Very pleasant and helpful staff. No complaints at all. I would thoroughly recommend this restaurant.

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Derek B . 2024-11-29

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Stunning restaurant, relaxed environment, friendly staff who are passionate about what they do, but mainly sensational, creative food. We did the food tasting and it did not disappoint. Course after course of delicious and beautifully presented food. The clementine granita was mind blowingly zingy in combination with the chocolate snow, cranberry and honey parfait. An absolute favourite. It was a perfect evening. Commend the whole team here for a fabulous experience and highly recommend this gem of a restaurant.

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Andrea G . 2024-11-23

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A really good place for a special treat...thoroughly enjoyed the food, wine and service...will definitely go again soon...

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Derek g . 2024-11-19

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The Damson never fails to deliver top quality food & service. Yes we’ve been lucky enough to visit a few times in the year since it opened. We’ve tried lunch, dinner and last night the exquisite tasting menu (hint miss lunch before you go). The tasting menu by definition is a journey through a myriad of dishes tied together by the seasons. There is also an exhaustive use of every piece of meat or vegetable across the dishes. Nothing goes to waste. Special mention to the expanding mocktails menu. You might think the location is a bit far out but trust me if you do drive (not my turn last night) you are well catered for. Service as always top quality. Caring but not intrusive and full of nice little touches which I won’t mention as you’ll need to try for yourself. Needless to say the petit fours and surprise biscuits (not a surprise for you now) came home in a little box. I hear Sunday dinner is something special, so need to get that on the list!

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Graeme M . 2024-11-17

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Henry and his carefully curated team create a wonderful atmosphere to enjoy delicious and innovative food. The restaurant itself is beautifully presented giving a sense of luxury but not over pretentious. The food itself is not just a feast for the eyes but it tastes every bit as delightful as it looks on the plate. I would strongly recommend visiting Damson for a welcoming fine dining experience.

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sarah G . 2024-09-29

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My husband booked Damson for our 1 year wedding anniversary and what a memorable experience that was! The food was some of the best we’ve had. Chefs that seriously know what they’re doing! Lovely staff, perfect ambience. Couldn’t have asked for more. Will 100% be back and singing your praises! The handwritten card for our anniversary was a special touch. Thank you again. 🤍

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solou . 2024-09-29

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Superb imaginative and very tasty food with first class friendly service. Excellent value for such high qualty cooking. The stand out dish was the custard tart - best we've ever eaten (closely followed by the salt roasted celeriac). The Minervois wine was top notch.

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Iain M . 2024-09-28

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The dishes are so well conceived and presented. Locally sourced, in-season ingredients combined perfectly in all three dishes. The staff are knowledgeable and attentive, and the restaurant itself has a nice ambiance. Attention to detail in all areas.

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pierreatcx . 2024-09-27

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A whole experience. Not only in the food itself but the atmosphere created by the friendly staff, warm atmosphere and seeing the chefs at work with such diligence behind the counter. The food, of course being the main draw, deserves every single praise. Each dish so beautifully balanced in portion, presentation and flavours. Don’t overlook the cocktail menu..

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Katie C . 2024-09-27

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We cannot fault this wonderful restaurant, first time there for a birthday lunch. We arrived a little early which was no problem, we were greeted warmly and taken to our table. The ambiance created by the decor is one of class but relaxing and tables are well spaced. The two staff were attentive at just the right time and very knowledgeable. Having booked ahead noting my allergies I was handed an individual menu. The food was amazing, bursts of flavours blended with skill. Unlike some other experiences where food is absent because of my allergies alternatives were served. Very reasonably priced and a memorable experience. We will go back.

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The Feet . 2024-07-17

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The 2nd time I've been and it was just as brilliant as the first time. The staff are genuinely friendly and the food is amazing. An absolute jewel of a place. I can't wait for my 3rd visit!

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Richard O . 2024-07-06

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One of my guests described the tasting menu as “edible theatre”. Each course is artfully presented, and yet tastes even better than it looks. The theme of the evening was “how do they make this taste so exceptional”. Who knew courgettes could be mind blowing. And the scallops! Pure joy. They were incredibly flexible in catering for my dietary needs, so I didn’t miss out on the tasting menu. I recommend both the optional cheese course and getting some wine recommendations from Alex, who has curated an exceptional wine list. Even the non alcoholic cocktails are so complex and interesting that being the designated driver is not a chore. It’s also a wonderful environment, fascinating to watch the team in the kitchen work, and the friendliest, down to earth front of house team. This restaurant will become the place you go to for special occasions, casual lunches, and everything in between.

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Sarah L . 2024-07-03

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Where to start, after parking the car you walk down the newly restored steps, walking past all the raised beds where they are growing all there own herbs and vegetables, these continue around the front of the restaurant it looks clean and fresh, never seen this before at other restaurants that I have visited. Chef Henry is doing a fantastic job with the renovations and you can see that he is very passionate about what he and the team do. My daughter and I had the lunch menu where every dish that came out looked like a work of art and seemed (not for long) a shame to eat it. The flavours were devine and made you wanting more. Mixologist Alex and Zak made us a couple of amazing none alcoholic cocktails, rather than thank look at the drinks menu we just said surprise us and oh boy they did, the drinks complemented the food and the weather. Hanna was fantastic, explaining all of the food they were serving which made you want to dive in. Chef Harrison came out to see us and explain the sweets that he made which were delicious. Big shout out to all of the team at Damson they do a fantastic service. If you have never been to Damson then you are truly missing out on a culinary experience that you will t talk about for days on end.

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John H . 2024-07-03

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This restaurant strikes the perfect balance between formal and relaxed, with guests feeling at home in either shorts or a jacket and tie. The food was lovely - local and in season and the matched wines perfect with the food. Henry the owner and chef came out to have a chat which was a lovely touch.

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beverley c . 2024-07-01

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Had wanted to come here since we’d heard about its opening. We were a big fan of Henry & Joe’s in Newbury so keen to try the Damson out. It was perfect from start to finish, service exemplary, food amazing. Highly recommended.

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Martyjojo . 2024-03-03

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Quality let down by a poor menu. Both of us felt like we had had a multi course desert and that want what we wanted or expected. The sweet trend running though the entire menu from the sweet accented amuse bouche, the rhubarb in the starter, the obviously sweet desert and though to the post-desert meringue was just too much. I had the set vegetarian menu and had no choice in my main, which is often the case….but at 70 quid a head wasn’t particularly appreciated, especially when was very very small in comparison to my wife’s fish and the venison observed. It was no more than starter sized. It was very nice other than (again) a sweet presence in the sauce it all sat on. Sweet just totally dominated the experience. The quality of the dishes was not in question, everything was well presented and skilfully prepared. We were quite possibly unlucky, but in general left disappointed in an unbalanced menu and an experience that did not meet high expectations and pretty high prices.

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NBYTraveller . 2024-02-29

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Stunning meal. Good quality food and excellently executed. I am gluten and dairy free which means you normally end up with the same food bit without the sauce etc. This was one of the best at offering replacement and I have eaten at Noma! Well done and thanks all up perfect night.

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Una_Parkes . 2024-02-24

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We had a wonderful, relaxed lunch in this stunning restaurant. Every member of staff was attentive and knowledgeable without being intrusive. Wine suggestions were perfectly matched to the delicious food. We will return, and will also use for business lunches. My advice, book now as I'm sure there will be waiting lists to go there very soon.

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Jenny H . 2024-02-17

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Another amazing meal at Damson. The lunch menu is such good value when you really work out how many courses you’ve eaten. We opted for the extra optional cheese course too which was served with the most deliciously moorish homemade crackers. Staff are really friendly and knowledgeable, we love hearing about how much goes into each dish. Makes a Friday lunch out feel like a really special treat! Can’t wait to return.

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HannahK-I0889 . 2024-02-17

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Food and service is excellent. This is a proper party for your taste buds Had the 7 course tasting menu. Atmosphere was a bit dull and felt a bit on top of each other and a bit too attentive. Seating isn’t very comfortable. Bill will make u cough!!

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Daniel W . 2024-02-16

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This was our second visit, this time for lunch. The food was fabulous, beautifully presented and some amazing flavour combinations. The highlight for me was the swede starter - we don’t see enough of swede! The pork loin was delicious and combined with some lovely flavours to make a tasty and deceptively filling main course. The cheese course was lovely, with some unusual cheeses, with quince chutney and a very light home baked cracker. Service was excellent. Staff are friendly without being intrusive and clearly knowledgeable about what they are serving.

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Rebecca L . 2024-02-11

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My husband and I were super excited about dining here after our experience at Henry and Joe's, and we were not disappointed. The tasting menu was brilliantly executed. The decor and vibe of this venue are spot-on. The service from everyone provided the magic trio of personal, relaxed and attentive. Special mention about Alex, whose passion for each wine made the experience all the more special.

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Louise N . 2024-01-29

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The welcome on arrival was delightful and you can’t possibly miss the open kitchen where you can see all the action which is nice. Sommelier very chatty and warm. I was hoping for a warm lively atmosphere but it was a bit quiet. The staff were attentive but it felt like they were possibly trying a bit too hard. The constant napkin replacements and the handbag stools seemed a bit OTT and unnecessary. Henry’s food is good as expected but I think I’ve had better and tastier and the price is eye watering when you are paying service and drinks on top. It’s not a place I could return to more than once a year. I think the menu needs to be reduced in pricing to make this a place you would want to come back to. Chocolate pudding, surprise Damson pie, bread and mushroom pate the standout dishes. Also Missing a mirror in the disabled toilet.

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AnnaW261 . 2024-01-28

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Well worth the wait. We loved Henry and Joe’s previously and Chef Henry has taken things to another level here. Enjoyed every course in fantastic surroundings - great to see the old pub with a new lease of life. We will be back!

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AdamFowler . 2024-01-14

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My meal at Damson was exceptional. The ambiance exuded sophistication, and with its stunning interior setting the tone for an afternoon of fine dining. The staff's attentiveness was noteworthy - our waitresses, Hannah and Miah were prompt in responding to our requests and catering to our needs. It was clear they took great pleasure in speaking us through each of the courses from the set menu - this gesture, along with their knowledge and professionalism added to the overall charm of the experience. It goes without saying each course was lovely, with a combination of intense flavours that leaves me eager to revisit.

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Tiffany G . 2024-01-13

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Sensational new spot near Newbury and not far from M4 j13. A foodie paradise. Expertise from start to finish; both with service and food, cooked by Henry of Henry and Joe’s fame. Lovely decor; nice drinks; not too pricey. Give it a visit!

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441naturac . 2024-01-05

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A minimum cost of £120 per head plus service charge for the non-optional fixed menu before the first glass of water is worth knowing BEFORE going to this restaurant. The food is fine but the price of it might make the eyes water.

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Tr10jwd . 2024-01-02

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From start to finish this was a fabulous dining experience. Lovely interior, well-spaced tables, very professional, friendly service and outstanding food and wine. Definitely now one of our favourite restaurants. The lunch menu had a choice of just 2 options for each course so maybe not for a picky eater.

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carolyndE7208VC . 2023-12-23

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Our 2nd visit to Damson and it was excellent, the new team have got this totally nailed. This time we had the mid-week menu and it was perfect for a Wednesday evening with friends. The restaurant is beautifully decorated and imparts a sense of relaxed comfort with a view of the busy chefs in the open kitchen. The food was delicious and exquisitely presented. We had a very nice bottle of Rioja and interesting cocktails. So good that we’ve booked in again in February for the main tasting menu.

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Cazzy62 . 2023-12-22

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Good to see the old Winterbourne Arms still recognisable in the building layout. Thank you for not messing about with it too much! Very attentive and welcoming staff, interesting and different menu. The menu is fine dining and limited in options and so may not...

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Annahbg . 2023-12-09

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We went to Damson to celebrate a birthday and received a warm and friendly welcome with a birthday card on the table. Every member of staff was attentive, friendly and took pleasure in explaining each dish to you. Every course was exquisite and expertly presented,...

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Sian J . 2023-12-09

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I took my team to Damson for our Christmas meal as I wanted to treat them to a really special night and they loved it! The food was fantastic - we went on a Wednesday and had the five course tasting menu and every dish...

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TheRudd . 2023-12-08

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What a lovely place - really happy to see this chef moving closer to us and bringing a great team so went to test it out. Nice touch to see a birthday card there for us and also a handbag stool for my wife was...

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ColinB71 . 2023-11-25

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Incredible food, so beautifully presented with such intense flavours. We loved The Damson! The ambience is calm and friendly with an open kitchen so you can watch the food being prepared. It’s for special occasions as it is a tasting menu, however you would spend...

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FamilyB17 . 2023-11-21

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2nd time visitors! This time the 7 course evening tasting menu! WoW what a delight, so much so I didn't take any pictures as I dived in on every course. I loved the variety of opening snacks and the All Angels soaked micro apples ....

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Maccadonut_68 . 2023-11-19

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We visited this restaurant recently and it was amazing. The food is sublime, the service is first class and the decor is awesome. We came for lunch and we really enjoyed the tasting menu £50 a head, we also chose the cheese board which was...

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blueandwhitehoops . 2023-11-17

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It’s hard to know where to start really as we loved everything about our first evening at Damson. The welcome was very warm and the decor is stylish and beautiful. We have known this building for many years in various guises so it is lovely...

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Z2218YJhannah . 2023-11-12

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This was quite simply the best dining experience I’ve ever had anywhere. We had the seven course taster menu and every single mouthful was an absolute delight. The flavours, combinations and attention to detail was incredible. As well as the food, we loved the wine,...

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Reggiethebadger . 2023-11-12

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A wonderful evening of jaw-droppingly delicious, seasonal cuisine. Every mouthful delivered 'surprise and pure delight' in equal measure. The restaurant oozes charm and sophistication , a big step up from Chef Henry's last venture in Newbury. The entire team created a welcoming , relaxed and...

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buntybee . 2023-11-07

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As great fans of Henry and Joes we were keen to see what Chef Ireson (and Chef Hunter) had created in heir new venture. The start was inauspicious owing to the car park not being open and the surrounding village being pitch black. However once...

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AndrewN424 . 2023-11-02

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Had such a great evening at Damson recently. Henry and his team put on such a lovely meal for us, the tasting menu was amazing. Every course was seasonal. The restaurant is such a nice place to spend a few hours being served incredible food....

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David L . 2023-10-30

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The passion and desire to ensure excellence is evident the moment you enter Damson. The dining event is both intimate and very pleasurable. Attention to detail is so easy on the senses it’s almost something that’s not even in your conscious thought. This type of...

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Kevin T . 2023-10-28

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Exceptional food in a stunning environment. Every course was an absolute joy, I genuinely couldn’t pick a favourite. The chefs did things to vegetables I couldn’t even imagine was possible. The food was delicious, seasonal and perfectly presented. If you only eat out once, make...

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sarahl128 . 2023-10-28

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Having been patiently waiting for Damson to open since the closure of H&J, it did not disappoint. The food was incredibly tasty, seasonal and looked amazing. The restaurant decor is classic; the staff are attentive and friendly; and Henry, Harry & Jake are back in...

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DJD1610 . 2023-10-27

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A new destination for an established restaurateur Henry and Harry and Jake Beautiful modern restaurant with spacious table settings The food is amazing, complex and delicious. Seasonal produce is front and centre. The service is professional, friendly and timely. What else could you ask for?...

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462vivienl . 2023-10-26

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Drove all they way from West Sussex for this lunch feast. For those from Just Stop Oil, it was combined with visiting family too but, sorry fam, it was the restaurant I really wanted to experience. Cheery smiles from the chefs across the pass as...

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Caroline C . 2023-10-21

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I have had the pleasure of having both the 7 course evening tasting menu and the set lunch menu. As a pescatarian the choices did not leave me feeling a second thought as is so often the case for non meat eaters. Every little detail...

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HannahK-I0889 . 2023-10-20

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Creative cooking ,seriously very delicious food. Beautifully presented and served by friendly efficient and knowledgeable staff. Very relaxing and enjoyable experience.

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1foodie99 . 2023-10-15

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Amazing already, wonderful flavours and textures in all dishes and lovely decor throughout. Thank you Henry and team. We can’t wait to see how the restaurant develops even more over time!

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jjl_jjl_jjl . 2023-10-15

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Warm, welcoming environment serving delicious food. Set price menu £70 offering 3 courses. Home baked sourdough bread with butter and taster bites for nibbles. Good selection of wines, alcohol and soft drinks.

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Karen A . 2023-10-13

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Clearly likes lots of people we have been waiting a long time for Henry's latest creation to come to life. And wow it was worth the wait! Clearly not as conveneient for us as we are south of Newbury but well worth the visit to...

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Maccadonut_68 . 2023-10-09

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My wife and I regularly used to visit Henry and Joe's, so we were keen to try Henry's new venture and brought my dad and my wife's mum too. We'd only had our wedding the week before and my birthday is coming soon so there...

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Andrew R . 2023-10-08

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We had the Tasting Menu and each dish was a work of art, both visually and gastronomically. Not cheap but well worth it for the experience. Although this is a newly opened restaurant, the waiting staff all knew their roles perfectly. Decor and ambiance just...

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Noel1310 . 2023-10-08

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Well worth the trip for an excellent lunch. Very good food and a sensibly priced wine list. Service is friendly and on-point all in a very nice setting. Well done to all the brigade. We will definitely be back but this time for dinner.

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Chris G . 2023-10-01

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Having recently married, we try to do something really special each month for our 1st 12 months anniversary’s. We had a gorgeous intimate table and a wonderful card congratulating us on our 7th month anniversary. Nothing was too much trouble, we swapped out desserts for...

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gmarkley . 2023-09-26

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I’ve been looking forward to eating at Damson since Henry & Joe’s closed and I wasn’t disappointed. The food was excellent, interesting flavours and combinations and great use of local ingredients. Sustainability is clearly important to the restaurant alongside serving its diners a memorable feast....

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Rebecca L . 2023-09-21

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My husband and I had a lovely evening at Damson. Chef Henry Kremer-Ireson (formerly of the acclaimed Henry & Joe's in Newbury) has transformed the Winterbourne Arms pub into an exceptional fine dining restaurant that has a really nice atmosphere. We loved the decor and...

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TheRudd . 2023-09-19

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Wonderful lunch. We knew Henry would do fantastic. Damson has only recently opened and the restaurant is amazing, comfortable, sympathetic modernisation, loves it. The food tasted amazing and looked amazing. Staff were knowledgable and friendly. We will definitely be back.

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Ronnie H . 2023-09-19

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Damson is a brand new restaurant in the quaint and delightful village of Winterbourne, just north of Newbury. What was previously a village pub is now a stylish, inviting and upmarket restaurant that manages to deliver cosy, as well as special. The tables are never...

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allwoz . 2023-09-18

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We knew that Henry would give us something fresh and new and he didn't disappoint. With the restaurant having only opened on Wednesday, we went to the first lunch service on Friday - a set menu with a choice of two starters, two mains and...

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BerkshireEP . 2023-09-16

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I have just had the privilege of attending opening night at Damson, and it is something that I will always remember. Starting with the refurbishment, the interior looks amazing and the attention to detail is fantastic. From the white tiled floor the green walls, lampshades...

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John_6680 . 2023-09-15

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