The Hambrough

Ventnor is not the most beautiful resort, but up and away from the brash seafront, in contrast sits the Hambrough where the cooking goes hand in hand with the elevated position. Highly pleasant muted designer surroundings are harmonised from exterior through to well appointed rooms, where an Espresso machine could be the highlight for some. Aside from Square Meal, Good Food Guide and Michelin accolades, upon sampling, it is easy to understand why the food has to be the most exciting on the island. A pretty good wine choice was usefully categorised by style. Helpful and fairly knowledgeable staff were friendly, which seemed to accord with the island atmosphere. They seem to be forging not just a good local reputation but probably a wider foodie one too. Little to add to the succinct food comments of previous reviewer except to rate the full English breakfast as one of the best. All done with restrained panache, the delightful Robert T and his team deserve to flourish as The Hambrough seems set to leave the competition in its wake.

Now comfortably offering the best food on the island, Michelin starred and deservedly so. Down the road from the much more established Royal Hotel, The Hanborough has arguablydone more than any other establishment to put the Isle of Wight well and truely on the hospitality map, boutique contemporary hotel, that I havent stayed in only because I have a house no more than five miles down the road, it looks like it caters for a demanding crowd. The current Head Chef, whose name escapes me, has been in situ for a little over a year, has taken the restaurant on to new heights. Very imaginative menu using mostly local ingrediants, incredibly skillfully cooked, plus a sea view, what more could you ask for! The atmostphere is a little quiet, not sure what they can do about that and not a place for children. Very good wine menu, lots of variety and value. Service was efficient and friendly.