L’Ortolan, Reading

This modern French eatery is Reading’s only Michelin starred restaurant – an accolade they have held onto for 20 years. With menus ranging from a la carte, to the chefs 10-course surprise – its well suited for those formal, special occasion meals.

The buildings’ rich history dates back to the 19th century and is reflected in its grand red brickwork, Gothic revival outline, and high ceilings of elegant proportions.

The restaurant itself offers – under the stewardship of new head chef James Greatorex offers two eating areas which serves an intimate 58 covers, three private dinning rooms accommodating between 8 and 22 guests, a ‘chef’s table’ in the kitchen where can soak up the atmosphere and upstairs lies a small culinary school where you can enhance your cookery skills.

It’s worth noting they have a separate vegetarian and vegan tasting menu, so for all those plant-based eaters, your definitely not a side note here.

The restaurant will reopen on 17 May, but you can get your Michelin star fix by ordering its L’Ortolan At Home hampers and Sunday Roasts, available for local delivery and collection.