Painswick, Fish & Seafood Restaurant Guide

It’s “easy to miss” Richard & Shirley Cook’s acclaimed smokery but “you get great seafood from this unusual establishment accommodating a ground floor cafe and deli, plus the upstairs restaurant which seems to be ever-popular in spite of its location”. It is “not cheap” and the odd “uneven” meal is reported, but fans say “it is such a treat to eat here thanks to the most delicious shellfish dishes in generous portions”. You have to think there’s a reason they are also suppliers to Fortnum’s and by appointment to His Majesty King Charles. Top Menu Tip – “the smoked platter showcases what they do” and “there is usually a hot soufflé among the dessert choices and it is NEVER disappointing!”

‘British seafood, Cotswold produce’ is the promise of Gareth Fulford’s small independent near the High Street, where the evening focus is on an à la carte menu (two courses for £58 per person); and where there are also selections for a ‘light lunch’ or a tasting option of six to eight courses for £85 to £100 per person. All the cooking is acknowledged as “very inventive and tasty”.

2024 Review: Now in its 49th year and ten years on from the retirement of founder William Beetson, “happily, William’s continues to thrive” as an unusual fishmonger/deli/restaurant, “far away from the sea”. The refurbishment under new owners Ed & Helen Playne “has worked well”, so guests can enjoy “really good fish, always well cooked and nicely presented, but now served in a better space”.