Windsor is mostly known for its esteemed Royal Castle and historic charm as a town, one with a wealth of food options to satisfy every cuisine connoisseur. Having said that, venture beyond the proverbial ‘palace gates’ into the royal borough and the surrounding Thames Valley, and you’ll discover a thriving culinary scene that foodies everywhere will appreciate.
From riverside gastropubs to intimate restaurants, this region spoils food lovers everywhere with an abundance of choice. Whether you’re joining an Evan Evans tour from London to Windsor, potentially with a few stops along the way, or planning your own gastronomic adventure, we wanted to create an essential guide to have on standby when you want to eat like royalty in this picturesque corner of the Home Counties.
Must-visit food spots in Windsor
Peascod Street Bakeries and Coffee Spots – For those arriving on one of Evan Evans’ Royal Windsor Afternoon Coach tours, make sure you stop at one of the charming cafés along Peascod Street for a coffee and a pastry. This road features numerous traditional English bakeries interspersed with modern artisanal coffee shops.
Meimo – Also on Peascod Street, this cosmopolitan spot takes you on an immersive trip to Morocco with its authentic tagines and warm spiced dishes. The beautiful Mediterranean décor and welcoming lunchtime spot create an experience that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the pedestrianised town.
Plate at No. 6 – Located on Market Street, by Windsor & Eton Central station, this restaurant, with its ever-evolving seasonal menu, offers exciting Asian fusion perfect for refined palates. Their tapas-style small plates encourage sharing and sampling, making it ideal for groups exploring together after visiting the castle.
The Boatman – Some of the town’s most scenic dining experiences can be found along the riverside. This traditional British pub offers a stunning view of the castle from its Thames-side spot. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy some classic fish and chips or a hearty pie paired with locally brewed beers and ales, while soaking in the rustic charm of the royal town.
Côte Windsor – For a more eccentric riverside dining experience, consider this French restaurant in neighbouring Eton, which overlooks the Thames and is particularly exquisite at sunset. The outdoor terrace offers the most pristine setting for some rich, classic French brasserie dishes and a carefully curated selection of fine wines.
The Ivy Royal Windsor Brasserie – Situated on High Street, this eatery personifies the elegant dining experience with its luxurious interiors and distinguished service aesthetic. Their menu spans from comfort classics like shepherd’s pie to indulgent seafood platters, all prepared with the attention to detail you’d expect from this prestigious establishment.
The Loch & The Tyne – If you want fine dining in Old Windsor, then you won’t find much better. Led by acclaimed chef Adam Handling MBE, this restaurant represents the pinnacle of modern British cuisine, using the finest locally-sourced ingredients and innovative techniques to make truly creative and delicious dishes.
Where to eat beyond Windsor in the Thames Valley
While you’ll be spoiled for choice in Windsor, your culinary adventure shouldn’t stop there. The Thames Valley is home to numerous exceptional dining destinations that pair perfectly with a weekend getaway or a return day trip between Windsor and London, perhaps stopping by Stonehenge or Buckingham Palace.
In Marlow, just a stone’s throw away in Buckinghamshire, the Michelin-starred Sindhu (at The Compleat Angler) showcases chef Atul Kochhar’s innovative Indian cuisine, also offering stunning views of the River Thames. The restaurant is known for its creative and contemporary approach, featuring dishes ranging from truffle and chanterelle kichadi to Bharwan Bagare Baigan. It has become widely touted as one of Marlow’s best.
Further upstream, Bistro at the Boathouse in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, offers a relaxed and panoramic fine dining experience. It offers a diverse menu that spans from American-style buffalo wings to Asian-inspired glazed pork belly, giving something for everyone who wants to add a bit of international pazzaz to their lunch or dinner. The waterside location makes it a perfect lunch stop when exploring the beautiful market town of Henley, an infinitely more tranquil place during the regatta off-season.
Dinner before arriving back? Consider these Greater London marvels
Before departing Windsor and the Thames Valley, don’t overlook the chance to soak in some of the best spots between Windsor and the capital. Journeying back to London via Richmond, for example, gives you the perfect chance to stop via Scotts for some really exquisite seafood, Cocotte for a dazzle of French specialities, or Valentina Deli to gather an excellent selection of artisanal Italian cheeses, antipasti, charcuterie and preserves that will keep your hunger well and truly quenched during and after your trip.
Alternatively, Putney, in Greater London, offers anything from the modern British dishes of Home SW15 to the welcoming brasserie Gazette, which is headed up by chef Pascal Even, to give you a culinary experience you won’t forget. There’s also the country-style pub known as The Telegraph in Putney Heath or the sake bar Tomoe, to give you even more considerations for your itinerary.
Book a Windsor adventure with Evan Evans Tours today
Windsor and the Thames Valley provide a genuine feast for food lovers seeking quality, variety, and exceptional dining experiences. Whatever your preference, whether it’s British staples, international finery, or innovative creations, this region offers a plethora of memorable eating experiences waiting to happen. This list really only scratches the surface.
Ready to turn this guide into your own delicious adventure? Evan Evans Tours offer a comprehensive range of tours, from half-day castle visits to full-day explorations of Windsor, Stonehenge and Oxford. Our expert guides will ensure you don’t miss the hidden gems and local favourites that bring each destination to life. Contact us today, and let us help you plan your perfect trip.
