A Culinary Symphony at The Waterside Inn: A Three-Michelin-Star Experience

As the sun dipped below the tranquil waters of the Thames, I found myself seated at the prestigious The Waterside Inn, a three-Michelin-starred gem nestled in the heart of Bray. The anticipation was palpable as I delved into a culinary odyssey that promised to be nothing short of extraordinary. I remember when I was in my first year at university, I googled “Top 100 restaurants in the world” and noticed The Waterside Inn, was on the list. At that point, I had told myself that I must pay a visit, when I have the means to.

Fast forward to nine years later, I can safely say, I have dined at The Waterside Inn.

An atmosphere of refined elegance

The interior, a perfect fusion of classic charm and contemporary sophistication, set the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

As I stepped into the dining room, the first thing that caught my eye was the meticulous attention to detail. The tables adorned with pristine white linens and sparkling crystal glasses reflected the restaurant’s commitment to excellence. Soft ambient lighting created an intimate and inviting ambience, casting a warm glow on the beautifully set tables.

The décor spoke of a timeless aesthetic, with tasteful nods to tradition. Rich mahogany accents and plush upholstery exuded a sense of luxury, while the panoramic views of the Thames through the large windows added a touch of natural beauty to the surroundings. The Waterside Inn had successfully created a space that felt simultaneously opulent and welcoming, a testament to the artistry not only on the plate but also in the design of the entire dining experience.

Let’s take a look at what I had ordered

The experience began with some appetizers (which I unfortunately had forgotten the name of), but I was given a choice of warm, freshly baked bread. I enjoyed it so much, that I actually went for seconds!

Starters:

1. Tronçonnettes de homard poêlées minute au Porto blanc
   The evening commenced with a sensory delight – pan-fried lobster medallions adorned with a ginger-infused vegetable julienne, harmoniously drizzled with a white port sauce. The lobster, a masterpiece of succulence, danced on my palate, while the ginger and port sauce elevated the dish to celestial heights.
   
2. Noix de Saint-Jacques des Orcades poêlées, rubans de légumes et bouillon dashi
   Following suit were the Orkney scallops, impeccably pan-fried and presented with autumn vegetable ribbons, all bathed in a delicate dashi broth. Each bite was an exploration of textures and flavours, a symphony of the sea that left an indelible mark.

Mains:

1. Médaillons de lotte poêlés à la guanciale, jeunes pousses de broccoli et sauce madère (Signature Dish)
   The Waterside Inn’s signature dish unfolded – pan-fried medallions of monkfish, an exquisite dance of flavours. Guanciale, tenderstem broccoli, and a luscious Madeira sauce played their part in creating a dish that was not merely a meal but a culinary masterpiece.
2. Caneton fermier de Merrifield rôti à la broche aux épices, carottes d’antan et jus aux agrumes
   The Spit-roasted Merrifield Farm duck took centre stage, its succulent meat infused with spices, accompanied by heritage carrots and citrus jus. Each bite was a celebration of the finest ingredients, a testament to the culinary prowess that defines The Waterside Inn.

Desserts:

1. Péché gourmand selon “Alain”The sweet crescendo of the evening arrived in the form of “Péché gourmand selon Alain,” a curated selection of six mouth-watering desserts crafted by Alain Roux himself. Though the names of two dishes eluded my memory, the fish and duck leg offerings were a tantalizing encore to an already extraordinary performance.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

2. A Personal Touch: Soufflé chaud au chocolat

Amidst the culinary splendour, a personal touch stood out – my craving for a chocolate-flavoured soufflé. The team, ever attentive, conjured up a Warm Chocolate Soufflé, a heartwarming gesture that encapsulated the essence of hospitality at its finest.

Impeccable service

The impeccable service at The Waterside Inn was ever so memorable. From the moment I was ushered to my table, I was met with a level of attentiveness that bespoke a dedication to creating an unparalleled dining experience.

The staff, clad in immaculate uniforms, moved with grace and precision, orchestrating a seamless ballet of service. Each member of the team demonstrated extensive knowledge of the menu, effortlessly guiding me through the culinary journey that awaited. Their recommendations were not just about the dishes but also about the stories and passion behind each creation.

What truly set the service apart was the genuine warmth and hospitality that emanated from every interaction. The staff anticipated needs before they were expressed, and their unobtrusive presence allowed me to savour each moment without interruption. It was a dance of service that elevated the dining experience, turning it into a celebration of not just food but the art of hospitality.

As courses unfolded, the timing between each dish was impeccable, a testament to the synchronised efforts of a team dedicated to perfection. Water glasses were never allowed to reach empty, and the unfolding of napkins became a graceful ritual. The Waterside Inn had mastered the delicate balance of attentive service without intrusion, creating an environment where every guest felt like the centre of a culinary masterpiece.

As the night unfolded at The Waterside Inn, it wasn’t just a dining experience; it was a journey into the heart of gastronomic artistry. Each dish, beautifully crafted, told a story of passion, precision, and a commitment to culinary excellence every bite, I tasted not just the ingredients but the dedication and artistry of a culinary team devoted to creating memories that linger long after the plates are cleared.

I cannot wait to visit during the summer months.