Dew Pond Restaurant in Basingstoke and Deane

We celebrated our 50th Wedding anniversary at the dew Pond recently with our 4 grandchildren aged 6 to 11 and their parents and what a great time we had. We booked the private room as it had a little sitting room where the children could spend time between courses and not disturb other diners. This worked a treat as the restaurant was very busy with another party of 10 in the restaurant and most if not all the other tables occupied. The menu offer 6 choices for each course and we did not have to choose in advance which was a bonus. Keith the owner and chef took the trouble though to check with me in advance that the children would be able to eat off the menu as the youngest can be a bit picky.On arrival we were welcomed by Keith's wife and her team and went out to the terrace for pre dinner drinks and just as we were finishing those and our cheese straws, told our table was ready. Between the 10 of us I think we had worked our way through the whole menu by the time we had finished pud. Each dish was eagerly awaited, arrived beautifully presented and tasted delicious, a treat for both eyes and tummies. Service was impeccable with just the right amount of time between courses. The whole team at the Dew Pond made it an evening to remember so thank you Keith and team. You are worthy of a Michelin star but we are quite pleased you do not have one so we can book a table when we want to visit again without booking 3 months ahead to go on what turned out to be a waiting list, only to be disappointed a week beforehand. That was our family's booking at Le Manoir Quatre Saisons some years ago but the tactless way Raymond Blanc treated me on the telephone still rankles all these years later. Keep doing Keith what you do so well and we will keep coming back.

Super place, food was sublime the venue is classy and service excellent. Tastes were sensational and presentation superb. Can’t praise highly enough

Excellent atmosphere and great food. Very well presented and tasted great. Lovely place in a superb setting, will visit again soon.

The dishes were well-balanced and used the best ingredients. We had the oak smoked salmon, then the saddle of local roe deer, followed by creme brûlée with raspberries. Everything was perfect.

A very pleasant evening with first class dining, well presented and excellent service. Not cheap but then the food is worth it so no issues there.

I was recommended the Dew Pond to book for our team dinner this year when visiting our Head Office in Newbury. The restaurant is small but very tastefully decorated and cosy. Overlooking the fields and sheep, very nice. The food is excellent and nicely presented....

we visit the restaurant for our anniversary as i wanted a different restaurant. the food was excellent , service very good and quick. We really enjoyed the meal and recommend it to anyone we visit the area.

what a lovely place set in lovely countryside great service,food was excellent and good value for money this is a little gem you must visit

A lovely setting and worth the drive to this hidden gem in beautiful countryside. You might want to get a taxi though, because I recommend you start with one of their memorable Gin and Tonics. This is not a trendy brasserie. The recently refurbished restaurant...

We have been trying to eat at this restaurant for a long time and could never seem to time it right so we were really looking forward to going once we finally booked - we were not disappointed! We were greeted warmly and seated by...

Still my favourite restaurant of all time. Sat outside for pre dinner drinks surrounded by beautiful scenery and grazing sheep by the dew pond close by. The scallops were divine and the pork was so tender, served with black pudding and fine crackling. The chocolate...

Went to this unique restaurant on Tuesday and had a really nice meal with my partner. There is an outside seating area for pre drinks with amazing countryside views. Service was exceptional and I would highly recommend this place for couples

A popular high class gourmet restaurant but small, though we were able to get a table mid week at short notice and it was barely half full. As it was a warm evening we were invited to have a drink outside before we were shown...

Sono stato in questo ristorante per una cena d'affari, la location e' molto bella e consiglio di iniziare con una...

We have been here a few times since moving near the area 7 years ago. We decided to take our friends, it was their first visit. We had pre-dinner drinks in the garden, over looking the beautiful countryside. The menu is set price for 3...

I read the reviews, good and bad and decided we'd give the Dew Pond a try as its not too far from us in Basingstoke. First things first. If you don't mind going down badly surfaced country lanes you'll be ok. In a sports car...

We went as two couples on a Saturday evening. Food was fabulous set 3 courses we had a variety of starters and mains all of us enjoyed the food. Service was very good. Unfortunately the lads in the party wanted to get back for Euro...

Excellent as usual, good concise fine dining menu, nice chilled atmosphere, service was at its usual high standard. £36 / head plus drinks, you must book in advance, good wine list, toilets spotless, never rushed, table is yours for the night, ample parking. Nice view...

Went here for the first time this evening and is definitely my new favourite place! Amazing food, great quality and lovely servers. Would highly recommend and can't wait to go back!

This is a jewel of a restaurant servicing great hearty food. I'd 100% recommend this to anyone although slightly steep on pricing.

Had heard rumours about this superb restaurant - only a few miles from home - and - finally on my birthday, I was treated with my small family to a wonderful dinner. Service - supreme. Food sublime Extensive wine list. Friendly and courteous service in...

Have been here quite a few times over the years and the standard has remained remarkably high. It is unlike most other restaurants in both location and ambience. The atmosphere will vary depending on the diners at the time. The menu is not enormous but offers a very attractive choice and it made selecting quite a challenge! All four of us were delighted with our dinners, starters, mains and desserts. The ingredients are superb and, where possible local. On our recent visit we found the beef fillet, lamb and venison to be exceptional. The flavours were superb without being covered with highly flavoured sauces. Portions are good and presentation is attractive without being pretentious.I was rather surprised to find the place not full on a Saturday evening and do wonder whether the formula which has served the owners so well perhaps needs a small re-vamp. I could criticise nothing: the food was great and service was delightful. My 35 year old son loves the place and described it as being like dining in someone's home. Having said all that it does just lack a little bit of buzz or pizazz.

I will be as constructive as possible. The food is staid and uninventive but well cooked - on the whole - and good quality ingredients are used. Some of the elments of all the dishes we had would have benefited from refinement including, but not limited to the "chunk" of dry dauphinoise potatoes and the squeaky green beans. The wine list is also largely unexciting; however the bottle we chose was very nice and the prices are NOT eye-watering. The service was pleasant but lacking finesse on a number of levels. Tip 1: When you're doing something for one customer, try looking around the tables at the others, too, to see if anything else needs doing. Tip 2: Do not re-lay tables next to other diners unless absolutely necessary for another sitting; having table cloths flapped around whilst eating is not ideal. Tip 3: There is a fine line between irritating upselling and being helpful, our experience was well below any possible hint of upselling! Pour the wine! Ask the customers if they'd like more! As them if they'd like a sweet wine to go with cheese/dessert! And finally a suggestion: offer the cheese course as an additional course for £x, not just as an alternative to dessert for an extra £3. All the above seems very critical, but we did very much enjoy our meal and the bill (partly perhaps becuase of the lack of upselling and service) was reasonable. However we do feel there is better locally so won't be rushing back.

We visited recently after hearing good things about this place. tHE Restaurant is very sweet and has such a cosy feel to it. The decor doesn't feel particularly "fine dining" but don't let that fool you- the dishes served are sublime. We enjoyed everything we ate and the fish mains in particular were so light and flavoursome. A real treat. We'll be back for sure.

This is a restaurant that you will not easily find as it will have no passing trade and is located in an out of the way rural location.We booked the restaurant for a family birthday (all adults 20+), we were a small group and the restaurant had a number of diners already seated when we arrived at 19:30, by 20:30 we had the restaurant to ourselves - so even for a Thursday evening it is in a quiet location.The food was not cheap, so don't make the mistake of thinking that you're in for a ZiZi, ASK type experience. However for the quality of service, attention to detail. the quality of the ingredients and the high standard of the food that was served certainly made this a value for money experience.The menu is largely 'fixed-price' with one or two additional charges for more expensive options, but this actually made it much simpler to order, as nothing would be 'price-barred'. This is certainly something other establishments should consider.I would highly recommend this restaurant, and will return again in the future, although to be fair I would like to keep it as a personal secret as it truly is a hidden gem.

I visited on Thursday evening and was surprised with the quality of food. The service and attention to detail in the restaurant was amazing. The soufflé to start was delicious, whilst the deer was tender . The pudding as shown below was lovely. Couldn't recommend the restaurant enough.

We were staying close by and drove past this un assuming restaurant tucked away in a quiet road. Having gone back to our hotel I did a search and liked what I saw! On the off chance I phoned and now know I was extremely lucky to get in the following evening. From the moment you arrive the attention to detail is just brilliant. The food is local fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection. Excellent value for money, I cannot recommend this restaurant enough and please if you find yourself in the area just book it, I promise you won't be disappointed!

Although we live close to the restaurant for some reason we have not dined there for over 15 years. How glad we were to finally go back. Great food, good atmosphere and a throughly enjoyable evening.Our food was cooked to perfection and the cheerful staff made the evening fun. We will be back again very shortly.....

The Dew Pond continues to deliver excellence. The welcome and front of house is just exceptional, the food is very tip, top quality and the place is intimate and friendly. Dont miss it.

Such a great place for food, service is exceptional along with the food. An out if the way location but vert tastefully decorated. Menu is £36 for 3 courses, great value for money.

Went here on a Thursday evening to celebrate my birthday with family and parents. This is our local restaurant but haven't been for a while. As always the food was fabulous, great wines and service. What I couldn't understand was why we were the only customers? The Dew Pond is an excellent restaurant and should be busier!!Highly recommend, I would hate to see this place shut through lack of custom. I'm going to go here much more often from now on.

If you like good food then this is the place to go! I love it here!They have a £36 set menu for 3 courses which is very cheap considering the quality of the food! Food is of a michelin star quality and the small menu has a option for everyone!If you have not tried this yet make sure you do but book ahead early

Brilliant food, very attentive service. Could not fault it, and have already re booked for when we are in the area again. Loved it

Went to Newbury for a weekend away and chose this restaurant because of the reviews on Trip Advisor as we've not stayed in that area before. I could write the review in one word by just saying WOW! The food was simply sensational! The restaurant is a small venue with around 40 capacity and was elegant and clean without being too fussy. We had three courses which included great variety of dishes. The best dishes we had were the twice baked souffle, aged filet of beef and sticky toffee pudding. Every single plate that went back to the kitchen from the diners was spotlessly clean and empty of any food, not from our table but from every table - the food was just that delicious! We've told everybody about this restaurant and we are planning to go back again, and again! We can't wait!

First time to Dew Pond as sounded prefect for Valentine as its small, intimate and with wonderful food/menu. It lived up to all expectations and had a good night. For starters we had the smokd salmon and soup which were excellent. I preferred the salmon though. Mains - we had lamb and roedeer which were both very tasty. But the desert was the best bit. The chocolate mousse with pistachio ice cream was great. With a bottle of Gavi to go with it. We will certainly be returning.

My wife and I thought we would try the Dew Pond for valentines after being recommended several times and what a great choice! Quality and presentation of food was amazing, fantastic staff and great value for 5 courses. If we were to be picky the only disappointment is the car parks a little squeeze however staff came out to assist and resolve the problem so everyone has a space. Can honestly say what a great find will definitely be returning. Thank you see you shortly.

This beautiful small personal restaurant is one of a kind.The service,menu,drinks and setting is amazing. I would gladly eat there every day. Our Valentines day visit had a lovely set menu & the wine chosen with each dish was spot on.Lovely helpful, happy & professional staff.We loved the atmosphere of this homely,friendly, relaxing restaurant.

I have been many times now to the Dewpond when it has been extremely busy and when it has been a little quieter and it never ceases to amaze us how wonderful the experience! My friend and I enjoyed a lovely meal last night (16th February) and being a Tuesday the restaurant was not full (we shared the venue with four other tables) but it always proves to be that the ambiance is very special, intimate yet full of vitality, warm and very comfortable whether full or with less numbers. We are always treated as if we are VIP's, made very welcome with professionalism without fuss. The food was delicious, of the highest quality and beautifully presented as always. The staff were very friendly, efficient and professional. The highlight for me was the Mushroom Wellington - absolutely superb choice for a vegetarian!!We are looking forward to returning soon!Thank you Dewpond: the brilliant chef and all the superb staff!

My wife and I had the pleasure of visiting the Dew Pond with a group of friends recently.We all enjoyed a truly splendid evening in this beautifully appointed restaurant.The service was extreemly friendly and efficient and as for the food, every mouth full was simply sublime. The wild mushroom veloute with medeira and truffle oil started off our gastronomic experience, followed by probably the best halibut that we have ever had. The fish was cleverly flavoured by the addition of creamed leek and ginger beurre blanc and finally topped off with finely shredded crispy onion making it a true master piece. Our main course of saddle of lamb which 'melted in the mouth' and was further enhanced by parsnip puree, honey glazed carrots, winter greens and fondant potato . Desert was a delightfully light panna cotta with compote of blackcurrent shortbread. A selections of chocs and coffee rounded off a simply brilliant evening. The wines, which were all pre selected to accompany the meal, were carefully chosen and ideally matched to each course.Congratulations to all concerned at this truly excellent restaurant.

We are regular diners at the Dew Pond as it is one of our favourite restaurants. We had a meal last Saturday and once again it was an excellent night. The food, presentation and staff, all first class. The menu never disappoints and the food consistently of a very high standard. Looking forward to our next visit !

I've visited the restaurant several times and have to say I have always been absolutely delighted with the food and service, however last night was a different story! Being a Valentine's night special I had expected to enjoy an intimate quiet evening with excellent food. I was not disappointed with the latter, but as for the quiet evening - Dew Pond what were you thinking?! In their infinite wisdom they had allowed a private party in the adjoining room who were raucous, the language less than acceptable and I really didn't want to hear about Jim's 11mg of steroids a day! You totally ruined my evening and that of your other guests. A word to the wise, if you looking to book a quiet evening - perhaps check that Jim and friends are not dining that day too.

Simply one of the best dining experiences ever.Wonderful country setting with a cosy feel but so special at the same time . Staff are friendly and welcoming . The menu wets the appetite and the food is so well cooked and beautifully presented , absolutely delicious . Excellent wine list , we had an exceptional sauvignon blanc for the ladies and we chose the Chilean Merlot which was so smooth we had to sample another bottle to check consistency !Cannot fault in any way just book and go . Enjoy !

Visited the week before Christmas 2015 with some friends and I thought the place had a really good atmosphere, the food was good, not a lot bad to say about it. Best marstons pub I've been in.

This was our first visit to the Dew Pond Restaurant and we were seriously impressed. The reception we received was warm and welcoming, the atmosphere is exactly as it should be in such a facility, the service we received was outstanding, and the food was exceptional. The menu was wide ranging and provided for all tastes, the quality of the food served was 'to die for', and we will be back. Highly recommended, especially for special occasions.

We have been to the Dew Pond several times over many years. It never disappoints. Food was fantastic, service is great and the venue is very good. If you haven't been you must go, it's simply a hidden treasure.

We have just spent a fantastic evening at the Dew Pond. First Class service, delicious food and wonderful surroundings. Who could ask for more? A real treat!

We went here for a special occasion dinner. The food was well presented, delicious and good value for money. The atmosphere was pleasant and cosy. Unfortunately, the service was absent and unapproachable even though we arrived for the early seating at 6.30. One of our servers/hostess was stand-offish and made our dinner slightly unpleasant.

First visit here as we live not too far away, great place for a special occasion. Menu is brilliant, starters are generous portions we were too full for desert but all the food tasted excellent. A little pricy but for a celebratory birthday dinner it was a lovely evening and plesant atmosphere. Would reccommend this place and love to return some time.

First visited the dew pond over 20 years ago then children came along. Can't believe we did not go back until our 23rd anniversary and then took my in-laws to show them what a fantastic restaurant. The menu is not large but I find it hard to choose something as it all sounds and looks fabulous. The presentation is lovely and the food just quality. I will certainly be going back again and won't be waiting 20 years!!!!

I love eating at The Dew Pond, there is always a great welcome from the moment you arrive and the service is always top quality. They restrict the menu to around six choices per course and I still have difficulty deciding which one. Fortunately with a table of six we manage to cover most options and then try each other's food, it's what families are for. The option for desert of having a taster platter of all of the deserts always goes down well.

I live in West Berkshire - have dined in many of the restaurants in the area including the Vineyard and I have to say the Dew Pond gets my vote as best in West Berkshire as a complete dining experience. Not great for kids but a great place to enjoy if out with loved ones or friends.

I rarely find a menu which has limited choices but find it hard to choose dishes because they all sound lovely. I settled on the goats cheese, beetroot and walniuts and it didn't disappoint. Neither did the mushroom Wellington! Not only was the food delicious but the service was great. I love good English service! They don't hover and ask you after every course how was the food and they leave ALL the dishes on the table until everyone has finished eating. Lovely setting, lovely food, great service!

My husband and I visited The Dew Pond recently to celebrate our 25th Wedding Anniversary and we couldn't have chosen a better place to do so.It was relaxed,not pompous and the most deliciously prepared food you could ask for.Highly recommend for any occasion...we booked our return visit before we left :-))))))

I have been to the Dew Pond three times for different occasions and every time I would give it 5* it is just the best.Food is superb puddings are to die for yummy yummyMenus change with the seasons and prices are what you would expect for this kind of restaurantNice surroundingsThe only negative thing I can say is sometimes the staff could smile a little more.

We must compliment Keith, Julie and their friendly staff for making our 50th Wedding Anniversary celebration with our family last evening such a wonderful experience! There were eleven of us and everyone was full of praise. The food, as always, was totally delicious and beautifully presented, served by charming staff and it is the whole ambience of the restaurant that makes it so special. It will always be our most favourite place to dine and we highly recommend it.

3 courses of top quality food and superb presentation for just £36 Fantastic value and great service. Will be returning soon.

Have been eating at the Dew pond, for special occasions, ever since it opened over 20 years now. Never had a bad meal. Lovely ambience. Could be in someone's house. Same family running for all this time. Due to go there again next week for our anniversary and really looking forward to it.

We made another visit to the Dew Pond. There were nine of us in total and we had a wonderful evening. Great food wonderful atmosphere. We were lucky with the weather on this particular evening and enjoyed a Pimms on the terrace with the backdrop of " Watership Down " The party had a variety of choices from the menu but my particular favourite was the Hampshire Lamb. Delicious. A real gem in Berkshire

This is, locally, the restaurant of choice for those who can afford the ?£39? set meal price (the only offer, as they sensibly let you know on their website), and in the area it is certainly among the most stylish - decent sized tables, set well apart, with good napery etc in a group of smallish rooms in the former manor house. Sadly, on this occasion, neither service nor food quite lived up to the promise. Nothing to complain about, but nothing to write home about either. Maybe the kitchen wasn't having their best evening, or maybe those reviewers who rate it outstanding don't do much 'fine dining'. Some of the dishes were not as good as we can do at home, which doesn't encourage us to go to upmarket restaurants. Sad, because it wouldn't have taken much to make the meal memorable.

A great experience, everything oozes style and quality! From the establishment itself to the décor, to the locally produced taste bud tingling menu! Well worth the price you pay!!

On first sight this could be someone's house, you could quite easily drive past and miss it completely, its so understated. The food however is very, very good. Its not quite got the panache of a really highly acclaimed and expensive restaurant but it has all the flavours and a menu that entices your taste buds! I can see why the car park is packed and many of the guests seem to be greeted on first name terms. It is definitely one to go back to time and time again, its not cheap by a long shot but its not break the bank expensive either. The emphasis seems to be on excellent produce more than anything else and it really shows. Its a comfortable, relaxed enjoy a meal with someone you want to be with place.

It all looked very promising as we arrived at what looks like a large, private house. Indeed the restaurant itself was very nice with crisp, clean table cloths and views over a field of grazing sheep and lambs. Our welcome, however, was very clipped and polite and lacking in the friendliness we Northerners like. There was only one other couple dining at the same time as us which didn't help the atmosphere particularly, but it was a Tuesday evening! I was quite surprised that there wasn't an alternative to having three courses for £36; not everyone wants three courses or to pay that sum! In fact, whilst we were there there was a walk-in customer who looked at the menu, asked if he could have just one course and was told in no uncertain terms,"no", so he went elsewhere, having been told about a pub quite close by. I had a starter of Roasted beetroot, caramelised walnuts, spiced pumpkin seeds and fresh ricotta. It was beautifully embellished with micro herbs and edible flowers but was unfortunately lacking in flavour other than the overwhelming, hugely sweet hit of the walnuts. My main was Mushroom, shallot and spinach Wellington, asparagus, butternut purée and baby leeks; again, very well presented and I really wanted to like it but the pastry was soggy and the meal was under seasoned. The dessert was most definitely the best course, I really enjoyed my Creme brûlée, summer berries and tuille biscuit!!

The Dew Pond always excels expectations, the service is spot on, the food is incredibly delicious and always a night to remember. If you go in the daytime, you can enjoy the garden overlooking a field full of grazing sheep, how relaxing is that?It's definitely one of our top ten restaurants!

We visited The Dew Pond for the first time in May and it exceeded all our expectations. All three of us enjoyed every course. The food was excellent! The family running it were nice and I think it was actually quite good value for money having eaten there. You may look at the menu and think it is a bit pricey as you pay for three courses, but we all enjoyed it and I would recommend it.

On a recent visit here with friends we left with mixed opinions over the evening . The setting is comfortable but the food ranged from ok to good , nothing more or less . Presentation was fantastic but for the price we had hoped for more. Would return and try again as could have been a one off judging by all the other great reviews.

Visited The Dew Pond the other evening and had a fantastic meal. The food was fantastic. The food was presented really well and all tasted so nice. The staff were very helpful and regularly checking if we needed anything. Their was plenty of variety on the menu. Definitely going back soon!

Four of us were booked in on a Saturday night, pulling up to the premises you could be mistaken for thinking that you are pulling up at someone's house for a dinner party, but as soon as you enter that illusion is dispelled immediately, The tables are a great size and accommodate four people and all glasses with room to spare, there is plenty of space between the tables and the owners have resisted getting more tables in - which for sure would be filled!The menu is fixed price for three courses, but had an extensive choice for all courses,The food tasted fantastic and was presented in a very attractive fashion, good spacing between courses, no rush to leave the table after our meal,The service staff were polite, well presented and always on hand without being intrusive, brilliant!Would definitely recommend, and will be going back!!!Well done The Dew Pond

Lovely welcome by Marie and the other servers. Twice a year the Dewpond dedicate the restaurant to West Berkshire Mencap which is an easy sell, in fact we have to try not to advertise it as it sells out so fast. The menu was great, pea and mint veloute amuse bouche, smoked salmon fishcakes, rump of lamb with my favourite potato dish, fondant, then a lemon posset with the lightest crispiest shortbreads followed by chocolate macorons. Superb, I have never had a bad meal there and was very excited to find that they have a private dining room with private sitting room! Please can someone buy this for me :-)

Have been to this place for the dinner for special occasion it was very good. Worth to visit this place even though expensive.

We visited the Dew Pond with some friends and once again we all were delighted with the food each having chosen different items on the menu. The wine was reasonably priced and all the staff efficient and friendly. The quality and presentation of the food was impressive and delicious and portions were certainly adequate. The cosy atmosphere and lovely surrounding views made for a very enjoyable evening and we can't wait to find an excuse to go back soon, when the menu will include new and tempting dishes.

We have been eating at this restaurant now for many years and the standard of food has always been consistently good. On our last visit we were not let down, both of us had the venison which comes highly recommended when on the menu. The staff are always friendly and welcoming and nothing is too much trouble. It's perfect for a romantic meal or a fun evening with friends. Looking forward to our next visit.

I had high hopes for this restaurant reading having read the reviews but it really did not live up to expectations. On arrival I parked tight up to the car next to me as there is very little space to park but as we approached the restaurant a very polite young man asked if I could move the car to another spot as it was going to be a busy night. I went back to the car and moved it under his watchful eye as directed in front of another car, then as I got out of the car I was asked if I could move it again ! I literally had to tread through the flower bed to get out of the car this time. Not a great start. Throughout the evening the staff were polite, the younger members rather apprehensive to approach the tables but polite all the same. Whilst there was nothing wrong with the food I have to say both starters and mains were completed unseasoned. I had the fish for main which came with half a dozen broad beans and peas - there is no mention of additional vegetables or potato sides on the menu - and if my other half had been served it he would have been asking where is the rest of my meal.. He had the lamb which he enjoyed but when he cut into the potato fondant it literally gushed with oil. I ordered the rum and chilli marinated pineapple for dessert and when it arrived it was just sliced pineapple, I sent it back and it re appeared with less than a teaspoon of marinade on top of it - this was really not what I was after and not what was advertised on the menu. Another reviewer mentioned that there was no atmosphere and they really have hit the nail on the head here, when we visited it was busy unyet devoid of any warmth or sense of social enjoyment. It's the kind of place to take your ageing aunt or mother in law not the kind of place to have a jolly time with friends - unless you want to speak in something just above a hushed whisper ! Lovely setting, pleasant staff, food underwhelming.

We regularly eat here when we are in the area. Julie & Keith provided a warm welcome. The set menu delivers good value, and the wine list offers plenty of choice. The sauice reductions are beautifully made. No faff or pretention, just great ingredients treated well buy a chef who cares.

The experience started the second we drove into the car park - so lovely to be greeted and helped from the parking area into the very pretty restaurant. We were shown to the 'private' dining area, which had a lovely atmosphere, to have drinks in the attached sitting room, with delicious nibbles This started the evening with a swing. The serving staff were so lovely, very attentive and extremely able to give advice about the menu, without intrusion.Everyone enjoyed their choices - with compliments coming from all directions for the starters and mains - I think between us all we had covered the whole menu! Being the only veggie in the group I was particularly thrilled to see some well thought out dishes - which I REALLY enjoyed - very tasty combinations.The portion sizes are just perfect, as it's always so disappointing not to have 'room' left for the final course - most of us had the miniature assortments which were ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS. We all left after a really wonderful night knowing that we will be back soon - I thoroughly recommend the experience.

The food and overall dining experience at The Dew Pond is excellent. It has a truly enviable setting and a very welcoming atmosphere. The menu is varied and offers a great selection of local produce. The service is attentive and the staff were very helpful with assisting our wine selection. All three courses were wonderfully cooked and presented as always. We always recommend The Dew Pond to our friends and family and is a perfect place for a special night out.

We have only ever eaten at this restaurant as guests of others, and therefore have not felt it appropriate to complain. However - we have never had such mean servings and consistently come away so hungry at any other restaurant. No only are the helpings much too small, the food is not always very good. There is no atmosphere at all - I don't think I have ever seem a smile front of house. Some of the food is good but needs a telescope to find it, other food has been bad, particularly a very tough morsel of lamb. I once chose the vegetarian main course - it was tiny. The setting is lovely - sadly that is the only good comment I can make. The food is very over-priced, and you have to pay even more for scallops, steak, etc.

When we have something to celebrate we go to The Dew Pond. We love the atmosphere and food. It is more expensive than other restaurants in the area but well worth it for special occasions.

lovely setting ,not nearly enough parking ,no outdoor smoking facility's , really poor service ,not offered more drinks until wed finish our meal,not asked once if our food was ok ,which mine wasn't ,I chose the veggi Wellington which I must say was delicious but the potatoes and veg that came with it were stone cold and not seasonal asparagus in February way to bitter, the starters were lovely, the not reads well but felt quite let down when it arrived and the menu doesn't seem to change daily as advertised.

As a group celebrating a birthday dinner, we were given a separate room without even asking for it, and not charged for it either. It had two open entrances so we did not feel shut off from the rest of the restaurant. The food was excellent as was the service, with the wine waiter going the extra mile to find a wine to suit one of the guests, bringing tasters until the right one was found. We enjoyed all the courses - eveything was just perfect, and the setting was lovely and relaxing too. This is an up-market restaurant with a subtle air of genteel luxury. The service throughout was quietly efficient and proffessional. We felt pampered from the time we stepped in to the time we said Goodbye. I look forward to going back there again. It's one of the best in the UK that I have ever visited, and definietly good value for money. An experience not to be missed if the opportunity arises.

Eaten here on a few occasions, service has always been great, food beautifully presented. Surrounding lovely.

High quality food and cooking. We have been on a number of occasions over the years and last months visit was just as good as it has always been.

Have eaten here about 6 times with my husband on special occasions, it's always a memorable meal. Friendly staff, comfortable restaurant with tables big enough to spread out. All the food from the nibbles to the amuse bouche to truffles with coffee are all beautifully cooked and presented. Well worth spending 2 weeks grocery bill, best food for miles around.

We ate here on a Saturday evening as a party of four for a celebration dinner - the restaurant was almost full and very buzzy but still with plenty of distance between tables so that we could enjoy our conversation without straining to hear. We each had something different from the three course set menu and everyone thoroughly enjoyed their chosen dish. The wine list is extensive, well chosen and very reasonable. Service was discreet but attentive. It was a lovely evening.This restaurant offers seriously refined cooking with pleasant and efficient service. We highly recommend.

I have eaten at this restaurant about 6 times over the last couple of years., once in the private dining room for a special Christmas get together. When in season, I have always opted for the local venison, as much as I try to deviate, it has always been so mouth wateringly delicious, I can never resist! I have eaten most times in the very comfortable restaurant area with dinner companions of various ages. Everyone has always thoroughly enjoyed their meal and choice of excellent wines. I have always enjoyed good company at my table but that aside, it is not a venue that you would go for the general atmosphere, if that is your thing, (or you are not prepared to make your own!). The service is always good, attentive and not overbearing but managing to make each diner feel special. The menu choice is always interesting but not huge, which I find is a good thing, as everything on it is appealing, but not too much to make deciding what to have a bind. It is a little more expensive than most restaurants but actually offers good value for money for the quality of the dining and wine. Pre dinner drinks, I find, set the mood, with tasty complementary nibbles. Thoroughly recommend for fine dining with special friends!

The reception is always welcoming at The Dew Pond but last night the food was exceptional. I could have chosen at least three of the starters and did taste that many. The presentation was precise and appetising and the flavours and textures lived up to the visual impact. I thought that if the mains lived up to the same standard I would be a happy diner and they did just that. No problem choosing a desert, don't make any rash decisions, just go for the mini assortment. In the past the toilets here were compact to say the least but what a transformation, now up to the standard of the rest of the restaurant.

The restaurant is in a lovely old building with 3 small dining areas. There is a fixed price 3 course menu at £36 per head. There are around 6 choices to opt from for each course. But I didn't find this limiting as I could have quite happily chosen most of the items on the menu. The food was lovely. But for me the high point was the lemon tart with blackcurrant sorbet which was really fabulous - intense flavours with a real sour kick. The service wasn't of a level you'd expect for an expensive restaurant. However, the staff were pleasant and personally I prefer to be left to enjoy my meal without having people hover over me all the time. The car park is too small with vehicles double parked so get there early and reverse park. Lovely place to go for a special occasion or a romantic meal.

Visited the Dew Pond for the first time while visiting friends in the area and was impressed by the setting. Beautiful views over the English countryside. The food was excellent quality and the staff attentive but not overly intrusive. I would recommend the beef, it melted in the mouth and the selection of desserts is a great idea when you’re spoilt for choice, as I was. All round a great dining experience.

Excellent food, good service and picture postcard setting. The cheese soufflé starter was delicious and the aged fillet of beef was so tender, well worth the extra cost. I’ll definitely be returning for second helpings.

As always it is a wonderful experience good service all round . We have been visiting here over a number of years and never been disappointed for all types of functions,the themed wine evenings are a interesting change at VFM. The views over Watership down on a summer evening fantastic.

Went for dinner at the Dew Pond in November when visiting some friends nearby.We had a fabulous evening with atentive service, delicious food and great wine!I had the cheese soufflé and the sea bream which were both delicious and my husband enjoyed the scallops and the belly pork for main course. We both went for the chocolate soufflé for dessert and it was to die for! All the other dishes ordered on our table looked equally good!Would definitely recommend this restaurant to anyone in the area.

We were a party of 6 next to a party of 12 who made such a racket we couldn't hear ourselves think. The starter of mushroom risotto was tiny, runny and disgusting - nobody at the table ate it. It looked like cat vomit. The vegetarian 'tower of vegetables' - the ONLY vegetarian option, was no tower - it was exactly one inch high - consisting of 2 slices of aubergine and 1 slice of tomato in the middle and that was my whole dinner. We left starving. How you can possibly charge 36 pounds for a tasteless 3 course dinner where the main meal cost about 1 pound is beyond me! My brother asked for the mushroom to be removed from his steak and it wasn't. He's mentally handicapped and got upset and nearly wouldn't eat it as he hates mushrooms! There is no atmosphere at all, no music, 2 waitresses knocked both my partner and me on the head with a plate!! Incredible. We didn't say a word as not to ruin my mother's party but just came away thinking its the most over-rated, waste of money ever! You must improve your vegetarian options!!! There are a million options that other restaurants can come up with. Really bitterly disappointed. Why do people think that just because its expensive, that its going to be any good!?

Went here for a Christmas meal with friends. The first time we had all been & all agreed that we'd definitely go back. The food is just amazing. Fantastic staff & service. May seem a bit expensive but it's so worth it, especially for that special occasion.

The Dew Pond is without a doubt my favourite place to eat. I've visited quite a few times already and the quality of service, food and atmosphere has never faltered. Despite the restaurant being full, the staff were on top form - always attentive but never intrusive. The beef remains my favourite dish (and it now comes with the most delicious chips!).I would not hesitate to recommend the Dew Pond to anybody - I'm already looking forward to my next visit!

Went to the Dew Pond for a Christmas meal with work colleagues. Lovely atmosphere, excellent service and food that master chef couldn't beat. I recommend the caramelised lemon tart with meringue and raspberry coullie , Mmm. need I say more?

Staff very attentive, food beautifully presented, divine cheese soufflé. All 3 courses delicious. Will definately be returning & highly recommend.

The restaurant was booked for a party of 11 for a 30th birthday celebration. On arrival we were shown to our table and after a 5 minute wait the drinks order was taken. We then waited a further 15 minutes before the starter was served which seemed a while as we had pre ordered the whole meal 3 days previously. After finishing the starters we had a further 35 minute wait for the main course and then my dish. the fillet steak. was served medium when I had pre ordered well done. I had also ordered the choice of ice cream which was two flavours but only one was served as they had run out of the other!The main disappointment was that when the wine was brought to the table, it was just placed on the table and not offered for tasting. There after we had to pour our own drinks and when we did require further drinks we had to leave the table and find staff. There were water glasses for only 4 people and when more requested they did not arrive.On a positive note, apart from the wrongly cooked steak and lack of tis maria ice cream, the food was of a reasonable standard.

Having finally booked the Dew Pond For a special occasion I was really looking forward to this dining experience, however I left feeling a little deflated. The service was ok, the food good and the Bill, pricey.It lacked the atmosphere I crave when going for a meal, very quiet, felt I had to whisper. It states smart-casual on the website but everyone was in their suit... you are in someone's living room after all!!

I ate at the Dew Pond years and years ago but didn't remember it very well. I took a friend for his birthday treat a few months ago and we had a lovely evening. I am a vegetarian and they catered for me very well. The restaurant has lovely views looking over the fields of Old Burghclere and next time, I would probably request a table nearer the windows. We had a lovely evening, recommended.

Fabulous meal, great food, excellent wine list, very quiet and calm, perfect service and I'm very grateful to my friends for this lovely 'Special Birthday gift.Do try the Marilyn Monroe wine - and keep the bottle!Ps - I started but didn't finish this review, but hope it will be accepted as they deserve the good comments.

Had the good fortune to dine here once again last week. Have been dining here for years -always fantastic, always consistent. The food is second to none and the staff excellent. It speaks for itself - come and see for yourself !!