The Terrace at The Montagu Arms Hotel

At first glance it may look like just another smart local inn, but The Montagu Arms is one of Hampshire’s finest, with an ambitious restaurant to boot. Ex-Roux Scholar Matthew Tomkinson delivers a succession of simply executed and gently sauced dishes that certainly warrant attention: a lasagne of slow-cooked oxtail arrives with celeriac purée, baby spinach and horseradish cream, while roast local lamb is accompanied by slow-cooked breast, black-olive polenta. marinated peppers and salsa verde. Fish is also well represented (perhaps South Coast turbot with sautéed wild mushrooms, braised pearl barley, caramelised endive and cep sauce), while puds might feature a delectable ensemble of dark chocolate cremeux with walnut ice cream, coffee macaroon and milk chocolate mousse. None of this comes cheap, but with all the gorgeous little extras it’s worth every penny. For something more casual, try Monty’s Inn – the hotel’s pub/bar.

The Montagu Arms is split between two restaurants, a more laid back pub called ‘Monty’s Inn’ that focuses on hearty food and English favourites, whilst The Terrace Restaurant offers something with a little more finesse. Largely using ingredients from the kitchen garden, it strives to make the very best of seasonal, regional produce, by executing with passion and care.The interior is simplistic with carpeted flooring and tall fabric chairs, plus a classic white table cloth look to give a sophisticated feel.

There’s a choice of a la carte and tasting menus available, and changing menus for lunch, dinner and Sundays. Whilst the menus are constantly evolving from what's available with the seasons, you can expect to find options like hand dived Dorset scallop with pork crumb, or ricotta and lemon tortellini for a la carte dinner. Then the tasting menu is 7 courses of the best of British - think Isle of Wight tomatoes with Laverstoke mozzarella, Cornish monkfish and New Forest strawberries with créme diplomat and shortbread.

On Sundays, guests can enjoy a set menu, with a choice of starters like chicken liver parfait and a selection of roast dinners like rump of beef with yorkshire pudding and all the trimmings. There are also some seafood and pasta options available for those who are after something a little different.

The wine list has been carefully curated, showcasing some of the finest wines from around the world. Expect Greek whites from Santorini, French reds from Bordeaux and a small selection of Provencal Rosés, plus plenty of bottles of sparkling for when you’re looking to celebrate. Along with a variety of options from the famous champagne house, you’ll also find some English sparkling wine from across Hampshire and West Sussex, so you can keep it local beyond just the food.