The Crab at Chievely

The Crab at Chievely (Wantage Road, Chieveley, Berkshire, RH20 8UE, tel: 01635 247550, www.crabatchieveley.com) is a pretty amazing place.  Not only is it a fantastic restaurant there is also a hotel section which has themed rooms.  This truly is a place for adults who can be adult, great for parents who want to be reminded what life used to be like prior to children.

The restaurant specialises in all types of fresh fish menus ranging from Lobster, Lemon Sole to practically anything you can name; and if you really don’t like fresh seafood there are meat and vegetarian options.

On arrival at the restaurant we had plenty of time to consider the fantastic menu and wine choices (for your chance to see the range of meals available then take a look at the menu for the restaurant).  The restaurant Managers and Wine Master (Richard Burton) was onhand to advise what is available, the specials and which wines would suit your food selection the best.  The food is fantastic and the service outstanding throughout the whole of your visit.  Head Chef, Jamie Hodson, produces superb food to an outstanding standing, which is well worth the visit

For our meal we had Crab Ravioli, Wild Berkshire Pigeon as starters, then Lemon Sole with fresh vegetables and boiled new potatoes, and Monkfish with a mushroom and gorgonzola cheese risotto; for deserts (and you have to leave space for these) we had rice pudding with ice cream, apple and a caramalised dumpling and roasted plums with a fruit compote.  The food was beautifully served and presented.  We ended our meal with coffee and homemade chocolates.

The rooms are super, clean, tidy and fresh.  The lower rooms have their own courtyard with a hot tub for you to use.  All rooms have en-suites, televisions, iron and ironing board and a hair dryer – all the items you would need to appreciate your stay.  There are 14 fabulous rooms to choose from all differently themed from the Bird Island in the Seychelles to Glen Eagles – here are the full selection available with images to show them off to their best.  The rooms are extremely comfortable and you don’t have the normal flimsy walls so can relax completely.  Waking up in the middle of the countryside with the only sound being birds and views of trees and countryside adds to the relaxing feel.  In summer there is also a garden you can sit and chat in, but we visited on a rather chilly December day so outside wasn’t really an option then!

In the morning you can enjoy your breakfast in the restaurant and what a selection there is – ranging from fresh fruit salad, yoghurt, cereal to full English breakfast, scrambled eggs with smoked salmon, kippers, haddock and much, much more.  Take your time and take in the superb service and food even at that time of the day.

This restaurant should be visited by everyone at least once, and when you have visited and enjoyed the amazing hospitality, from Lukas Laubscher the General Manager you will be booking your next visit before you leave.