Witney, French Restaurant Guide

“A visit feels like an occasion”, say fans of this “superb local French restaurant” in Summertown from chef-patron Pascal Wiedermann (ex-Racine, Terroirs and Six Portland Place) and his wife Laura. “Service is very good” and the dishes “well-executed”, although some feel the menu is somewhat “limited” and “requires £££”.

Reams of praise for this “always reliable bistro” near the centre, which is a real local “favourite and always packed”. By all accounts it “produces classic French dishes” at “very reasonable prices too” – not culinary art but “amazing VFM!” (and for a big group meal, its wide menu with something for everyone makes it an excellent choice).

In 2005, Ex-Bibendum chef Pete Robinson and wife Louise took over this former Butchers and refurbished it as a highly popular Cotswolds eatery. The name is a bit of a misnomer – there is “a touch of meat” on the “long menu”, including a 1.1kg T-Bone (For 2), but its heart and soul is a brilliant selection of fish and seafood, much of it cooked over charcoal, and presented in an appealingly luxurious everyday fashion (for example Cornish Lobster Mac & Cheese, Surf & Turf Burger, Dover Sole Meunière & Fries). “Very busy which was good to see – my first visit and it won’t be the last”.