Suffolk Restaurant Guide

After 32 years the Crêpy family were a tough act to follow at this “lovely” old (in parts 14th century) inn, on the square of a picturesque town: “a unique, quintessentially English building, whose other defining features are essentially French: this includes the staff, food, wine and especially the cheeseboard!”. “There’s very little to fault in its classic French cuisine”, and although the ratings awarded by its huge and dedicated fan club have slipped a fraction in the transition period, most reporters are optimistic: “since the Crêpys have retired the new owners have tried to keep the Great House just the same, and although it’s not 100% as good it’s getting there” is a sensible middle view. However you cut it, it’s “certainly one of the best East Anglian restaurants”.

“Spectacular views, smart accommodation and consistently good food” – this gastropub with rooms in beautiful Constable countryside is well worth the drive – and “the prices aren’t crippling”.

“Beautiful and atmospheric, with lovely décor” – Chis Haley’s fifteenth century wood-framed inn pleases all who comment on it, with its “beautifully presented” local grub. “Was it worth the 125 mile round trip? Oh yes!”

This barn conversion “offers something rare for Suffolk – vegetable-led seasonal food” (much “grown on site”) that's “innovative and creative” to boot. The “Friday night set menu is always a surprise and delight”, while “the bar team are always whipping up interesting preserves and shrubs to recommend”. “Much better than the ‘usual suspects’ down in Aldeburgh”.

“For that romantic meal close to the town centre within super gardens and with a great terrace”, this elegant restaurant with rooms provides a “gorgeous” setting and “delicious cooking”. At lunch, there’s a cheaper set menu (as well as the option of sandwiches and salads).

A “great place to eat in Lavenham”, this wine bar and restaurant-with-rooms in a beautifully converted fifteenth-century brick-and-timber house rates strongly across the board. Hosts Jo Knight and Rod Benson are locals.

2019 Review: The relaxed ground floor brasserie of this attractive Georgian coaching inn, in the town centre, wins positive (if limited) feedback as an all-day dining destination with options from breakfast on.