A fusion funfair nestled away in a quaint rural idyll. Milaanj at The Beehive is one of the most exciting new destination dining concepts mooring up on Berkshire’s shores which packs flavour, top notch produce, and first-class service in spades. At the helm? Owner and chef Ruchi who took over the pub building in the bucolic village of White Waltham in November 2023 and reinvented the gastropub (previously owned and run by Michelin-lauded chef Dominic Chapman) as we knew it.

Enter Milaanj. The culinary concept here is a blend of global dishes and British gastropub classics, masterfully elevated with Indian flavours through a modernist lens. Using only the best seasonal, locally-sourced fresh produce, you can expect a menu of beautifully constructed avant garde dishes that demonstrate imagination, artistry, and flair. There really is something for everyone here. Think hand dived Orkney baked scallops, lamb kebab, and turmeric scented kale wrapped monkfish, or fish ‘n’ chips with curry sauce and courgette flower paneer.

There’s roast dinners with an Indian twist on Sundays, a simple kids menu, a seven course tasting option, fabulous vegan offering, plus a stonking set lunch menu (two courses for £20 or three for £25). Throughout the year, don’t miss their brilliant line-up of foodie events too. As for the drinks menu, it’s a thirst-quenching list stacked with wines, beers, mocktails, spirits, softies, and teas. Their beautifully hand-crafted cocktails are best enjoyed in the edenic front garden which overlooks a cricket green.

The interiors have enjoyed a delicious face lift too, outfitted with pistachio and forest green hues, new carpets, and tasteful accessories. There’s a bar area fit for casual drinkers, and passing dog walkers and cyclists, and the main dining area is light and bright. It truly comes to life in the summer when the retracted bifold doors are flung open to the surrounding countryside. Bliss.