Where the Thames flows past the historic village of Bray, Waterside Inn stands as Britain's most enduring temple to French culinary excellence, its riverside terrace offering an unparalleled setting for what remains one of the world's most celebrated fine dining experiences.

Founded in 1972 by legendary brothers Michel and Albert Roux, Waterside Inn transformed a traditional English pub into a beacon of classical French gastronomy that would reshape Britain's culinary landscape forever. Under the current stewardship of Chef Patron Alain Roux, Michel's son, the restaurant has maintained its extraordinary legacy while evolving with contemporary refinement. The accolades speak volumes: three Michelin stars held continuously from 1985 to 2022, currently maintaining two stars in the 2024 guide, making it the longest-running Michelin-starred establishment outside France. This remarkable consistency, spanning five decades, reflects an unwavering commitment to the Roux family's founding philosophy of uncompromising quality and authentic French hospitality.

The cuisine at Waterside Inn represents classical French technique at its most sublime, where seasonal British ingredients meet time-honored Gallic traditions. Alain Roux's menu showcases signature creations like lobster medallions with ginger and vegetable julienne, perfectly executed foie gras preparations, and the restaurant's legendary pressed duck with brandy-flambéed sauce, prepared tableside with theatrical precision. The kitchen's mastery shines through in dishes such as pan-fried halibut with vibrant citrus sauce and Devon crab salad with langoustine tails and lovage. Guests can choose from the eight-course 'Le Menu Exceptionnel' tasting experience or select from the à la carte offerings, each dish representing the pinnacle of French culinary craft. The sourcing philosophy emphasizes premium seasonal ingredients, from the finest shellfish to exceptional game, all transformed through classical French sauces and techniques that have defined haute cuisine for generations.

The dining experience unfolds in elegant surroundings where large windows frame panoramic Thames views, creating an atmosphere of refined tranquility. General Manager Diego Masciaga, who has maintained impeccable standards since 1988, leads a service team renowned for their polished professionalism and warm hospitality. The extensive wine program features over 1,000 labels, with particular strength in Burgundy, Bordeaux, and prestige Champagnes, expertly curated to complement the classical French menu. Tableside presentations, including the famous pressed duck service, add theatrical elements to the refined experience, while the dress code maintains elegant standards with jackets encouraged for gentlemen.

For discerning gourmands seeking the ultimate expression of French fine dining in Britain, Waterside Inn offers an experience that transcends mere dining to become culinary pilgrimage. Reservations are essential and should be made well in advance, with the riverside terrace providing an especially magical setting during warmer months. This is destination dining at its most prestigious, where five decades of culinary excellence continue to define what fine dining in Bray truly means.