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The locals and residents of Henley are blessed. Yes, they have all the picturesque advantages of an historic town with the River Thames winding through it, but they also have access to a marvellous hotel called Relais Henley, and Restaurant Dominic Chapman within.<\/p>\n
This historic hotel is one of my favourites in the Home Counties. It was formerly known as The Red Lion and it still retains its original charm, but with all the contemporary comforts and technological amenities a 21st century guest might expect. The Relais Henley is located just 25 minutes from Heathrow and an hour\u2019s train ride from London Paddington station, making this the perfect location for a night or two at the start or end of a UK visit. Read my hotel review here.<\/p>\n
The Relais Henley offers a friendly and cosy bar, a picture-perfect deli, a dog-friendly courtyard, and an outstanding restaurant headed by celebrated Chef Dominic Chapman \u2013 who also lends his name to the restaurant. Eating here exemplifies fine dining minus starchy formality.<\/p>\n
Dominic knows the area and has built relationships with some of the best suppliers of the freshest British ingredients available. The menus are seasonal and that will likely encourage many a return visit to taste new plates. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, but the dinner showcases the skill of Chef Dominic Chapman and his team.<\/p>\n
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The restaurant is light and bright during the day, but these darker evenings turn the space into something more intimate \u2013 and often with live music. The staff are polished and professional yet friendly and engaging. They have tasted the dishes so are able to give advice on both the food and wine pairings.<\/p>\n
Dominic Chapman offers Michelin Star-quality food but with a garnish of comfort. We can all appreciate the work involved to win an accolade, and these productions are beautiful and tasty, but Dominic\u2019s dishes leave you craving another visit, another dinner, another mouthwatering adventure. It\u2019s just exceptional, inspired and sensible food.<\/p>\n
Sweetcorn Soup with Wild Mushroom Brioche was my starter. The soup had real fresh corn flavour and the slice of mushroom-topped brioche married perfectly. \u00a0My guest was tempted by Rosary Goats Cheese and Beetroot Tart with Apple and Fris\u00e9e Salad. A delicate and attractive presentation with the tangy cheese being married with the sweetness of the fruit. It was pronounced a winner!<\/p>\n
Wild Hart Venison, Celeriac Puree, Spinach, Mash Potato and Red Wine Sauce was my companion\u2019s main dish. This was a generous serving of lean and flavourful meat, and it\u2019s so good to see it on a menu. This would be the perfect opportunity to try venison in a classic fashion that allows the natural flavour to shine. A memorable dish.<\/p>\n
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Wild Seabass, Braised Leeks, Parmentier Potatoes and Tartare Buerre Blanc was my main course, and it didn\u2019t disappoint. The flesh was moist and sweet, and the skin was well-seasoned and crisp!<\/p>\n
Salted Caramel Parfait and Blackberry Sorbet, and Cr\u00e8me Br\u00fbl\u00e9e were our desserts. Both were generous servings of sweet treats and almost too much after such an ample meal which did credit to the chef, staff and hotel.<\/p>\n
The Relais Henley
\nHart St, Henley-on-Thames
\nOxfordshire
\nRG9 2AR<\/p>\n