For having such a great location it deserves to be utilised and the popular food chain plan to make a great addition to the town, delivering a stylish and new branch to their rooster in Godalming.

The historic market town is famed for winning awards and being considered one of the most desirable places to live in the UK. It is likely therefore that Côte will be over the moon to obtain the lease.

The Doctors, who previously occupied the building moved to the ‘The Mill Medical Practice’, thus leaving the grade-II listed property vacant since 2008.

It is a shame to have such a building not in use and judging by the popularity of Côte restaurants in other parts of Surrey, such as Cobham, Farnham, Dorking, Woking & Guildford, Côte will succeed in gaining popularity with the locals of Godalming.

Have your say, do you think this is a great addition to the town or would you like to see less restaurant chains?

The post Parisian Restaurant Côte set to arrive in Godalming appeared first on This is Our Town Guildford.

The coffee shop prides itself on being rooted within the community; only sourcing local products wherever it can. For example, they get their tasty, homemade muffins from Glyn, who also lives and works in Guildford, their bread and pastries are sourced from a local bakery in Bookham and their cakes are from a lady who lives just outside of Aldershot. They don’t buy in prepared food either, oh no; all their other pastries, panini’s, bagels, sandwiches and toasties are baked or made freshly that day in the their kitchen. This way they can control quality as well, instead of leaving it in the hands of an outside supplier – which is another thoughtful addition.

So what about their coffee then? Well it is sourced from Matthew Algie roasting house, which is one of the oldest and most established in the UK and they themselves are pretty serious about coffee. It is all Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance and Organic, meaning it is being produced in a sustainable and environmentally friendly way. The particular coffee that Coffee Culture use is a blend of beans from four different sources, two in South America (Brazil and Columbia) and two from Africa (Kenya, Tanzania). The result is a perfectly balanced, roasted crema coffee. This is what part-owner Will Gill has to say about it, “I think it’s the best coffee in Guildford and I will challenge anyone on that!”

Will and his wife Claire bought the shop back in 2004 and between them they had over 45 years of retail experience, having previously both worked for M&S. Therefore, they fully understand what a good product is and what it takes to sell. However, above all, they wanted to provide a good customer service and a friendly environment for all those who chose to visit them, as supported by their tagline, “We serve great coffee and food by friendly staff…”. Not only that, but they are always striving to improve. They won the Best Independent Customer Award in the Food & Drink category this year run by Experience Guildford, which was a result of customer feedback and a mystery shopper visit.

The final point worth noting about Coffee Culture is the feel of the shop itself. As it is totally independent, you will not sit in another coffee shop in Guildford or in fact the UK that really is anything like it. In March 2013, they had a huge refurbishment to spruce the place up a bit and give it an even more unique feel, and yes, you guessed it, even the interior design company they used were local (from Godalming to be precise). Now the place has a look more accustomed to a New York dinner on the inside and a beautiful English tea room on the outside, where you can enjoy a coffee and a snack in the beautiful Angel Gate courtyard.

At Coffee Culture you can get free wifi, a great cuppa and some delicious homemade, locally sourced food. You can sit in a modern, chilled environment and read the paper, knowing that your money isn’t going to a huge corporation, whilst everything being served will be with a smile.

You can visit their website at http://www.mycoffeeculture.co.uk/

James Martin

The post Guildford’s Coffee Culture – UK Coffee Week appeared first on This is Our Town Guildford.

1. The King’s Head

Located just outside Guildford town centre is the picturesque pub The King’s Head who is pulling in local residents and visitors alike with their “legendary” Sunday roasts. They have a wide selection of roasts such as juicy, rare topside beef and succulent pork joints. All of which are accompanied by a giant Yorkshire pudding, duck fat roasted potatoes, gratin creamed leeks, swede mash, honey roasted parsnips, carrots and of course, a delicious meaty red wine gravy. For more information call 01483 568957 or email [email protected]

2. The Onslow Arms

This country-esque pub not only looks gorgeous inside and out, it also serves a great Sunday lunch! You’ll find the best of British produce here with Scotch beef, English lamb and free range pork as well as tender rotisserie chicken. All roasts are served with fresh vegetables Check out their full Sunday lunch menu here.

3. The Seahorse

For a great roast during the day or evening, head over to The Seahorse. They offer a delicious Sunday roast menu consisting of tender meats and a variety of vegetables. If you can’t choose between roast beef, pork or chicken, why not have all three? Their ‘Trio of Roasts’ meal is an absolute treat and leave you with a very satisfied stomach  All roast dinners are served with goose fat roasted potatoes, honey roasted parsnip, British cabbage & kale, carrots, Yorkshire puddings & gravy. You’re guaranteed to have a happy tum!

4. The Albany

If you’re on the lookout for high-quality food as well as a good deal, The Albany are sure to give you both. You can get a roast and a starter or dessert for just £12! Their award-winning roasts come with all the trimmings are the highlight of the menu. Choose from Sirloin of Surrey Farm Beef, Sussex Honey Roast Gammon with parsley sauce or Free Range Chicken Supreme. See their website for more details.

5. The Jolly Farmer

If you fancy a good old Sunday carvery then you’ll want The Jolly Farmer. They provide good quality food with a country inn vibe as well as excellent meats! You can choose from leg of pork, Aberdeen Angus top rump, turkey breast or even a vegan nut roast. Or why choose? Have a bit of everything! They’re all served with a range of fresh vegetables, cauliflower cheese, roast potatoes and Yorkshire puddings. Find out more here.

When you’re out and about in Guildford on a Sunday, do have a roast!

Samina Bhatti

Image by Colin Smith

The post The Best Sunday Roasts in Guildford appeared first on This is Our Town Guildford.

1. Glutton & Glee

This is one of the most popular spots for breakfast and brunch in Guildford. They offer wide range of tasty foods including the famous Eggs Benedict which some claim to be best in Guildford! Their boiled eggs and soldiers is also a favourite with customers of all ages and their Artisan sourdough toast with butter and England Preserves also goes down a treat. You can view their full menu here.

2. Bill’s

Another popular spot is Bill’s. It offers a tasty breakfast menu as well as a quirky, rustic atmosphere. Everyone can enjoy a good brunch at Bill’s which offers everything from a full English breakfast to Bill’s granola and yoghurt. Their highlights include blueberry and buttermilk pancakes with an optional side of crispy bacon, and Cumberland sausage or streaky bacon in a toasted brioche roll. The full menu can be found here.

3. Tillings Café

Tillings Café in Gomshall is a great place for people to get together and enjoy food! They do a spectacular vegetarian breakfast as well as the regular full English and specials such as creamy mushrooms on toast with an option of bacon or poached egg. Checkout their full menu.

4. Cote

Inspired by the famous bistros of Paris, the Cote gives a modern twist to classic brasserie dishes. You can enjoy a varied and delicious brunch at the Cote and absorb its friendly and informal atmosphere. Some of the highlights in the menu include delicious French toast with fruit salad and maple syrup, and the famous Croque Monsieur/Madame – a classic ham and Gruyère cheese sandwich/with a fried egg. See what else they have to offer.

5. The Richard Onslow 

If you want a classic English breakfast or brunch, then The Richard Onslow has just what you need! You’ll find home-made black pudding created by head chef Thomas Robertson; sausages from local family butchers, and free-range bacon and eggs. For all you bargain lovers, they even offer free toast with all hot drinks from 11am! Check out their menu here.

Happy eating!

Samina Bhatti

Images by N Chadwick

The post Top Places in Guildford for Brunch appeared first on This is Our Town Guildford.

The Weyside

Why not treat yourself and spend some time on the banks of the River Wey? There a couple of special events at the Weyside this Easter. You can visit them for Good Friday Fish Night, where they will be going with tradition and serving a delicious selection of fish.

Alternatively, head over on Easter Sunday for a classic Sunday roast. You can choose from roast sirloin of beef, Dingley Dell pork loin and stuffing or roast saddle of lamb with stuffing, apricot and apple jam. All of which are served with goose fat roast potatoes, roasted carrots & parsnips, a side of seasonal vegetables, home-made gravy and a Yorkshire pudding. There will also be Easter themed activities such as Easter egg decorating and crafts. To book a table visit the website: http://www.theweyside.co.uk/ or call 01483 568 024.

The Richard Onslow

The Richard Onslow will be serving the classic British Roast this Easter Sunday with lashings of gravy and lots of roasties. They will also be serving special chocolatey puddings to get in the mood for Easter. Call 01483 274922 to book a table or go online and book.

The Britannia

This Easter Sunday you can enjoy a traditional roast dinner at the Britannia where you can get a selection of freshly carved meat, served with roast potatoes, vegetables, home-made Yorkshire pudding and gravy – all for £9.95. Visit the website for more details or call 01483 572 160.

The Drummond

If you want a relaxing Easter Sunday, head over to the Drummond just outside Guildford Cricket Club and enjoy one of their popular Sunday roasts. Delight your stomach with succulent tender meats, fluffy Yorkshire puddings, roast potatoes and rich gravy. Or if you’re not into big lunches or just want a break from the usual, then relax on the sofas with a newspaper and a brilliantly blended Bloody Mary. Book online here.

The Red Lion

If you want a home away from home, then visit the Red Lion this Easter Sunday. They provide freshly prepared food as well as comfy sofas and chairs to relax in. You can get a two-course meal for £17.95, some of the highlights include: crayfish, John Ross smoked salmon and rocket cocktail, lemon and dill dressing; Rotisserie chicken, bacon and rosemary stuffing, chipolatas, roast potatoes and bread sauce. Call 01483 768497 to book in advance. Check out the website to see the full menu.

Enjoy your Easter!

The post Easter Lunch in Guildford appeared first on This is Our Town Guildford.

Ashuka Tandoori

Location: Epsom Road, Merrow, Guildford GU1 2RE
Opening hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11pm

Rated as one of the top restaurants in Guildford on Tripadvisor, Ashuka Tandoori offer a wide range of traditional dishes, set meals and a take-away service

Website: http://ashukatandoori.co.uk/

The Cinnamon Tree

Location: Woodbridge Road, Guildford GU1 1DY
Opening hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11.30pm

A wide range of traditional dishes including the chef’s Cinnamon Tree special – chicken stuffed with spiced vegetables in a medium curry sauce.

Website: http://www.thecinnamontree-guildford.com/

The Rose Valley

Location:  Chertsey Street, Guildford GU1 4HD
Opening hours: 12 – 2.30pm, 6pm – midnight

Long established and well respected, the Rose Valley has for over 51 years has prepared a wide range of the finest Indian-Bangladeshi Cuisine.

Website: http://www.therosevalley.co.uk

Red Rose

Location: Bellfields Road, Guildford GU1 1QG
Opening hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm – 11pm

Red Rose recreates traditional dishes from all twenty-two regions of India with fresh spices ground by hand.

Website: http://www.redroseguildford.com/

Maloncho

Location:  Epsom Road, Guildford GU1 3JT
Opening hours: 12pm – 2.30pm, 6pm to midnight

Truly authentic Indian cuisine with a selection of traditional and innovative new dishes.  Staff are willing to prepare some off-the-menu specials if there’s something that you would really like.

Website: http://www.maloncho-indian-restaurant.co.uk/

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The Décor
The first thing that strikes you about the Mezzanine is how fantastically well illuminated the dining area is. The glass façade that provides the stunning exterior to G Live also acts as a boundary for the restaurant and gives diners a cool and bright place to enjoy their food. G Live is intrinsically a sleek and modern venue and the Mezzanine is very much in that mould with dark wooden furniture that mirrors the clean and crisp interior décor. Let’s also not forget the vantage point on offer which provides a marvellous view of the upper High Street and certainly adds to the whole dining experience.

The Menu
So the menu itself combines a variety of locally sourced ingredients to produce a simplistic offering of five reasonably priced starters, six mains and five desserts as well as some nibbles, sides and a cheeseboard. This stripped back style means you don’t waste hours making a decision on what to order which is good news when you are on a timescale.

To start, there is an option of soup of the day with crusty bread, as well as creamy garlic mushrooms on sourdough, Thai style fishcakes alongside homemade sweet chili (as is fashionable to do nowadays) and a smooth chicken and wild mushroom terrine, complimented delicately by an onion and mustard chutney. The final option is the spiced lamb kofta, presented on wooden skewers with a delicious mint yogurt dip that beautifully offsets the spices in the meat- a classic combination worthy of recommendation.

As part of the main plates, there are three traditional British dishes that will warm the heart; homemade sausage (from local butchers, ‘The Joint’) with mustard mash & onion gravy, Hogs Back beer battered cod, layered on a generous amount of pea pureé with tartare sauce and triple cooked chips and an 8oz beef burger with chorizo relish and a brioche bun, also with triple cooked chips (which are well worth trying with the tangy homemade ketchup).

On top of this there are also three more exotic options starting with the falafel with greek salad and tzatziki in pita bread (which is a great choice for vegetarians), followed by chicken in a white wine velouté sauce with a spring vegetable medley and a carrot & star anise pureé. On top of the price list at £18 is the deliciously tender Moroccan lamb rump in a tomato and aubergine sauce, served with a ramekin of jewelled couscous (as pictured).

And to finish it all off, a coffee alongside a homemade chocolate brownie, a baked vanilla cheesecake, rhubarb fool, white chocolate and passion fruit tart, or a selection of ice cream is a worthy finale.

The Reasons why it shouldn’t work!
The Mezzanine however, has a number of factors working against it. The kitchen, for example is on the bottom floor and so getting the food to your table on level two whilst maintain its heat is quite a challenge. The second major hurdle is to serve all the diners in a short period of time, without being rushed before the curtains are raised for the evening show.

G Live management have gone to great lengths to overcome the problem of keeping your food warm enough and have managed this by making use of a dumbwaiter. And no, a dumbwaiter is not an insulting term, rather the technical word for a small, freight lift that connects several floors and carries objects (like your dinner) instead of people. Certainly this has gone a long way to alleviating the problem.

The second major obstacle is in the timing. There is very little the kitchen and waiting staff can do in regards to serving a three course meal to patrons unless you arrive with enough time before the start of the show. If you want to relax and enjoy your food without worrying about timings, the best suggestion is to book a seating time that allows you that luxury.

However, if you do run out of time or simply want to take a little breather in between courses, then you can pre-order dessert and drinks which are then served to your table in the interval. This is G Live’s way of accepting that not everyone has time after work to sit and eat three courses before a show starts, but means there is no reason to miss out; a really nice touch.

The Verdict
There are a variety of different options at the top of town for pre-show dining, but The Mezzanine is as good as any. You have the convenience of the restaurant being right next to the auditorium, combined with top notch service provided by the friendly and helpful staff. The menu provides enough options and is continually being updated and improved upon, not to mention incorporating locally sourced ingredients. If you haven’t been up to The Mezzanine yet, then you should give it a try sometime soon- it’s certainly a worthy dining option before your night of entertainment at G Live and you surely won’t be disappointed.

James Martin

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There are more than 200 Prezzo restaurants across the UK now, with the first opening in Central London in 2000. Many of the restaurants (which are all individually designed) have been built on the sites of a number of listed buildings. Although that’s not the case for Prezzo Guildford, it does boast a chic, monochrome interior with ultra-modern lighting and does have a really classy feel to the place. Although the exterior won’t be turning many heads with its simple, matt black decoration, it does provide a glimpse inside with its big glass windows, but you will be much more impressed once inside.

Prezzo is renowned for offering a quality menu at value for money prices. For example, there is a set lunch menu weekdays between 12-5pm that offers some classic dishes for only £9.95, which is very good value for the town centre. The main menu itself is updated regularly and there are daily specials, but in general you can expect your typical starters, breads & olives, salads, sides, pizzas, pastas, other mains and desserts.

There will usually be a selection of around 10-15 pizzas including classics like Fiorentina and Margherita alongside a few more unusual offerings like Steak & Rocket and Prawn & Lobster. And it is similar with the list of pastas. There will be familiar dishes like Carbonara and Spaghetti Bolognaise, but if you are feeling more adventurous then you can try the Wild Mushroom Girasole (with buffalo mozzarella, basil pesto, cherry tomatoes and fresh rocket) or the Penne con Salmone (oak-roasted salmon fillet, broccoli and red chilli in a creamy tomato and pesto sauce).

The Grill section will also offer you a selection of burgers and steaks as well as duck and fish options which is a good choice if you are after something more substantial. However, if you are calorie counting or just looking for something lighter, then Prezzo has an innovative ‘Light’ option for its pizza and pasta menu, which will generally be a smaller portion with lower calorie ingredients and salad. A very contemporary idea that sets itself apart!

In the heart of the picturesque town centre, Prezzo is a middle-of-the-line chain. It is not too expensive, and for that you cannot expect Michelin Star quality, but what you do get is an extensive menu and a sleek and modern atmosphere as you eat. The company itself has won a number of industry awards and you won’t generally be disappointed by the standards Prezzo set.

James Martin

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