The Royal Windsor Public House: A Gastropub Fit For A Queen
If you are looking for a quality, freshly-made, meal in the most regal of surroundings then look no further than The Royal Windsor Public House. This charming gastropub which sits in the shadows of the imposing Windsor Castle boasts fantastic views of its Royal neighbours’ home and is just metres away from the chapel where Harry and Meghan will marry in only a few weeks time.
The venue, which opened earlier this month, boasts a spacious and bright open bar, which neighbours a function room in which sport will be shown at weekends. Drinkers can order delicious light bites from the bar menu while they enjoy a home-brewed Royal Windsor pint and innovative cocktails – made using spirits infused on the premises. If you fancy drink but don’t want to get tipsy, you can choose from a fantastic selection of mocktails. Best of all, there’s a relaxed and informal dining area at the rear, with spectacular views of the castle, which serves delicious, freshly-cooked food. I recently visited the pub in Datchet Road, Windsor, to put the new menu to the test.
Atmosphere: As soon as I stepped foot inside, I was welcomed by the friendly staff who showed me to my table. The first thing I noticed were the large windows which boast views of the majestic Windsor Castle. Everybody’s eyes naturally wandered to the iconic site, and a fellow diner even shirked with glee when she noticed the Royal Standard flag was raised, which means the Queen is home. The restaurant is in a separate room from the main pub, which is a nice touch as it means you are away from the crowds and can enjoy a delicious meal in peace. The décor itself perfectly blends old and new effortlessly with old wooden beams sitting side by side with modern spot lights.
Portraits of royalty are hung next to freshly painted panelled walls, which pays a silent nod to the venue’s royal surroundings.
Food: Gazing through the menu, it’s clear the pub, which specialises in handmade liquor and homemade food, has an experienced chef on hand. Guests can tuck into a variety of meals including a traditional Sunday roast, pan roasted salmon and rib eye steak. There’s a mouthwatering Flatbread menu, and they offer these gastropub pizzas on a 2-4-1 deal all day on Tuesdays! I opted for the bruschetta and the fishcake with poached egg, spinach, peas and homemade tartar sauce. From my first bite, I could taste the good quality ingredients which were bursting with flavour. I was pleased to see that the portions are very generous. There is
nothing worse than eating out at a swish gastropub and being handed tiny portions with a hefty price tag. Luckily, this was not the case here. My bruschetta was teeming with juicy tomatoes and the generous portions continued to the mains and pudding. If you adore munching on a sweet treat at the end of your meal then I would recommend the peanut butter and double chocolate brownie, which is served with salted caramel ice-cream. And yes, it is as mouth watering as it sounds.
Family friendly: What I liked about the Royal Windsor Public House is that it is kid-friendly and has highchairs for little ones as well as a children’s menu with many popular options including burgers, and my five-year-old son’s favourite – margarita pizza. He gobbled it up with glee, so the food gets the double thumbs up from us. Owner Lawrence Santi has promised great things for the venue. He told me: “Our focus is on fun, family, and fine dining.” And going from my visit, the venue has certainly achieved that.
Prices:
Starters range from £5-£11.
Mains range from £12 – £19.50
Desserts are around £5.50
- Visit The Royal Windsor Public House, Datchet Road, Windsor. Alternatively, log on www.theroyalwindsor.co.uk call 01753 865179 for more information or to book a table.
