3rd September 2008
Too good for Lincolnshire
Much though I love Lincolnshire, it isn't traditionally seen as a county with culinary aspirations beyond its unimaginatively named sausages. As such, Michelin stars don't tend to tumble from beneath its restaurants' chefs' hats, and this makes Winteringham Fields an incredible find and a rare jewel indeed.
The restaurant is set in a rather unassuming village/town, with a small but perfectly formed garden and building. The atmosphere is cosier than the price would suggest, and the service and the food live up to the price tag with room to spare. Lunch is obviously the best time to dine here if working to a budget, and some stunning food can be had for about £40 per head.
The menus are varied and cater well for vegetarians. While you won't find Fat Duck style food-experimentation, I've never found a meal at Winteringham to be without pleasant surprises. The price will put off some, but the restaurant deserves its hard-won reputation and is well worth a visit.