LJ's Top 5 Fine Dining Establishments in the UK

Bonus from Work? Here's Where to Spend It! 

Pocketed a cool work bonus just in time to see out the end of summer? There’s a host of things you can spend it on; a break away with your friends, or a few decent nights out. But how about throwing caution to the wind and putting it towards a really good meal at one of the UK’s best fine dining establishments?

If you’re hoping to join the leisure jobs industry, not only will it give you a taste (quite literally!) of what you’re aiming for in terms of success, it’ll also develop your knowledge in the process. 

Once you start seeing your meal out as a kind of foodie field trip, it becomes much more justifiable to spend what could amount to more, cost-wise, than your last big night out. That doesn’t mean it isn’t worth it though; here’s five places to think about adding to your list:

1 - Mayfair’s Hibiscus

Owned by Claude Bosi, who also cooks in the kitchen, Mayfair’s Hibiscus is situated in one of London’s most prestigious residential and commercial areas. Claude, an imaginative chef who’s known to add a contemporary twist to his dishes, offers food with real flavour. With everything from whole baked lobster on the menu, to a host of simpler dishes even those who don’t like fish can enjoy, it’s a real feast for the senses. What’s more, the dining room is absolutely beautiful - a real Instagram-worthy treat.

2 - The Fat Duck, Berkshire

A favourite of Tom Kerridge, Berkshire’s The Fat Duck – which is due to reopen later this year following a refurbishment - has been described as ‘perfect, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. While some say its food is a little inventive – it is, after all, the brainchild of Heston Blumenthall - others say it’s well worth a visit if you like to try something out of the ordinary. Previously, the menu at The Fat Duck has featured everything from bacon and egg ice cream, to snail porridge – certainly not for the unadventurous but definitely somewhere you can easily spend a well-earned bonus.

3 - Cornwall’s The Hidden Hut

Offering a typically Cornish dining experience, this Truro-based eaterie is open from March to November and offers a host of ‘grab-and-go’ lunch time treats and big outdoor cook-ups via its regular feast nights. Enjoy fresh seafood and a cool, relaxed atmosphere from which to take in the beautiful scenery of Cornwall’s Truro – definitely worth getting along to if you want to try somewhere new on a nice summer’s night.

4 - The Inn at Whitewell, Forest of Bowland 

Further up north, in Lancashire’s Forest of Bowland, you’ll find The Inn at Whitewell. In a charmingly British setting on the river Hodder, this lunchtime spot offers views over the parkland and fells and a brimming menu of tasty treats. Choose from a bar lunch and enjoy it al fresco during the few weeks we have left of summer 2015, and don’t forget to try some delicious delicacies like potted shrimps!

5 - Sticky Walnut, Chester

A bistro restaurant in Chester, Sticky Walnut is a much-loved spot for seriously good pub food. While diners say the presentation isn’t always picture-perfect, the fare on offer is a triumph. Expect to find courses including lamb’s tongue on the menu and look out for the venue’s Sunday lunch – thought to be one of the best in the area.

So, where will you be spending your bonus?!