Kate Driskell
Google
Fifty Two at Rudding Park. Seriously. This is an experience and a half.
It's not dinner out. It's an experience that's like having your best mate, who happens to be a genius cook and access to the best local bits, have you over for a dinner party and show you the garden beforehand.
It's not cheap, but it's not a cheap experience either. The food is exceptional, the service is genuine, and it's all just pretty much perfect. The table next to us was alcohol free the the drinks pairings they had were just stunning and thoughtful in the flavours in the same way our various drinks were matched.
Only one sitting. 7pm. Only one menu. Just let them know if you have dietary needs or non-alcoholic drinks etc. They're very accommodating.
This is a different level from Horto, another restaurant at three hotel. Partly due to the setting and partly due to the food. Fifty Two is more along the lines of the original Fat Duck in Marlow way back, but less bonkers than Heston used to be. With a maximum of twenty covers, the food can be, and is, meticulously prepared and thoughtful. The passion for flavours, texture mixes and using ingredients from the garden is just spot on. Horto didn't allow for the degree of precision that Adam the chef can get with Fifty Two.
It is more expensive, for sure. But it's a good price for the quality of food and experience.