An ancient ceremonial county sprawling southeastern England, Hampshire is a countryside delight. Blossoming with lush meadows, forest heaths, a handsome coastline, and wildlife-ridden chalklands, the county is bountiful in nature’s riches. Besides its wealth of resources, Hampshire certainly boasts a buzzing landscape and vivacious community. As such, it is bustling with restaurants of note, testifying to its strong epicurean appeal. Read on to uncover some of the best restaurants in Hampshire.
1. Hartnett Holder and Co. at the Lime Wood Hotel
Hartnett Holder and Co. takes pride in its colourful character and amorous Italian gastronomy. Ceiling-high windows offer unparalleled glimpses of Hampshire’s glorious, unperturbed verdure. Aurelian drapes frame the magnificent view, and mahogany tables with blush-pink leather seats furnish the dining room. Traditional sconces and pastoral artwork adorn the pistachio-green walls.
A labour of love by Michelin-experienced chefs Luke Holder and Angela Hartnett, the menu features special renditions of Italian classics. At the time of writing, the “trattoria piattini” (seasonal menu) presents gems such as saffron-infused Milanese pasta, cacio e pepe gnocchi, and butterhead lettuce salad. To crown the meal with a dolce delight, guests can sample the handmade chocolate petit fours, tiramisu, affogato, or pick their favourite flavour of gelato.
2. 36 on the Quay
With stunning views of the boundless sea and a celebration of modern European cuisine on linen-clad tables, it is no wonder that this family-run restaurant has gained so many accolades. 36 on the Quay has been featured on the Michelin’s Guide for two years in a row, has won a Rosette award for culinary excellence, and the 2023 Traveller’s Choice award.
An unassuming seaside abode, ceiling-high windows showcase the shingled beach, quarrelling seagulls, and the serene coastline habitat. White walls match the crisp linen clinging to the table, and yellow checkered tapestries imbue the room with a dash of colour.
Based on their catch, a sumptuous fish dish steals the spotlight for the day. Other specials include the Tomahawk steak, wild turbot fillet, and lamb cutlets. Their bespoke wine collection and wine pairing offering make for an elevated dining experience.
3. The Elderflower
Perched on a charming cobbled street, the Elderflower is a celebrated restaurant known for decadent British fare, but with a striking French zing.
Residing in a Georgian town, the establishment’s stately architecture speaks for itself. Exposed beams, stone-lain flooring, leafy curtains, and crisp linens adorn the dining lounge. Antique collectibles, scenic paintings, and the blue-panelled bar inject coastal vibrance into the space.
A true fine dining establishment, they offer four, five, and seven-course tasting menus, courtesy of acclaimed chef patron Andrew Du Bourg.
4. The Terrace Restaurant at the Montagu Arms Hotel
Proud of its “forest-to-fork” philosophy, hearty English favourites reign supreme at this majestic luxury restaurant.
Bejewelled and decked out in handsome materials, the princely interiors testify to Terrace’s five-star glamour. Wood-panelled walls are complemented by exposed beams, and archaic chandeliers ornament the ceiling. Chintzy carpets, bright-coloured velour armchairs, antique gilded mirrors, and ornate copper lamps harmonise to evoke royal grandeur.
Accompanied by greenhouses and a kitchen garden, Terrace has cemented a reputation for fresh ingredients and real British produce. Authentic Hampshire sirloin and Hampshire lamb rump, besides roasted market fish, are some of Terrace’s signature dishes.
5. The Mutton at Hazeley Heath
Ensconced in a countryside farm, the Mutton has built an incredible legacy of exemplary British cookery.
With exposed brick and wooden panelled walls inside and an unbounded meadow outside, dining at the Mutton is truly a utopian getaway in itself. Warm banquettes and a foliage-fringed fireplace make for a cosy dining experience, and the immodest greenery dotted with dawyck purple trees creates a comely al-fresco setting.
Roasted chicken, roasted skate wing, fish and chips, and grilled courgette tart are some of Mutton's classic dishes. There’s also an impressive wine collection, including vingates from France, Spain, and Italy.
6. Armada Restaurant at Rhinefield House Hotel
Armada takes pride in its regal majesty while serving humble British classics with a twist.
Soaring wooden-panelled walls, antique candelabra chandeliers, and a pale pink marble-topped fireplace bedeck the establishment. True to its name, a detailed carving of a naval fleet graces the wall above the fireplace. The old-fangled, large windows overlook the hotel’s manicured gardens.
Hampshire lamb rack, turbot with chilli squid, and wild mushroom and ricotta ravioli are some of the dishes on the a la carte menu. Additionally, there are Chef’s Table experiences and vegan menus.
7. Wild Carrot Restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel
Of Four Seasons renown, Wild Carrot offers the ultimate five-star dining experience.
Blending the rustic charm of the enveloping countryside and the sophistication of exclusive fine dining, bewitching white armchairs, leaf-adorned ceiling lanterns, wooden flooring, and floral wallpaper furnish the palatial restaurant. Copper lamps, antiquated ceiling pendants, and paintings depicting rural life infuse bucolic charm into the upscale establishment.
Under the guidance of renowned chef Talha Barkin, hearty country fare is presented on the menu. The “tiger prawns,” “loch duart salmon,” and the New Forest venison have particularly received rave reviews.
8. Pulpo Negro
Pulpo Negro brings delectable delights from every corner of the Spanish peninsula to the southeastern English coast. It has been a Michelin-Bib gourmand since 2014.
A low-key establishment with an underground country appeal, dim lights, exposed brick walls, stone-panelled enclosures, and leather banquettes ornament the restaurant. Contemporary elements, such as quirky cushions and eccentric mirrors, inject a playful zhuzh into the ambience.
Famous for its weekly tapas menu, barbeque seabass, tortillas, chorizo picante, and padron peppers are some of the restaurant's culinary marvels. Authentic Spanish gin and tonics, sherries, lagers, and ciders are also on the menu. Delicious cocktail classics, from caipirinha to expresso martini and negroni, are guaranteed to perfect the Pulpo Negro dining experience.
Hampshire is certainly one of England’s pastoral wonders, with serene azure waters and sensuous bounds of greenery. With luxury European restaurants to boot, there’s no better getaway from the clamour of daily life – it’s time to embark on a culinary sojourn in the restful English countryside.
