Only time I've ever eaten anywhere Michelin starred is the
Devonshire Arms near Bolton Abbey. Could only eat in the Brasserie side cos I wasn't suited and booted after a trip to the Abbey and have to say it was poor. OK, the food was good but nothing especially out of the ordinary, lamb chops with celeriac puree ain't exactly gonna set the culinary world alight, they wanted the best part of a fiver just to stick a bottle of water on the table and the service was poor, fact it was busy no excuse for rushed and generally inattentive bordering surly staff. Manager looked quite put out when we inisted he remove the 12.5%
discretionary service charge from a quick lunch bill came to 80 odd quid, no tips were left and I always tip.
Far better in every conceivable way was the
Burgh Island Hotel just over the causeway on Bigbury Bay in Devon. No stars but the food, service, and atmosphere in a stunningly beautiful 1920s art deco hotel favourite haunt of Agatha Christie and that set was superb. Dining room looks like
this.

Barely had to look at the waiting staff and they were topping up glasses or bringing more free water soon as an empty carafe went down without being at all intrusive or demanding even of acknowledgement, though of course that was given. £200 all in we spent on a fixed-price dinner for two including the wines and cocktails but the best 200 quid I've spent in a long time. They send a sea tractor over for you when the tide's in, poor guy waiting 20 minutes in cold winds and rain cos we were late and nothing but smiles. Great place. Just wish I could afford the average £4-500 a night to stay there.
Watched Masterchef. Rooting for Kerry but thought Anton had just pipped her at the last, they both served up stunning looking food. So pleased with the result. Not seen them do that before. Nice one.
Mailmonkey, love that menu. What dad got from the garden soup, brilliant, lovely touch that, mushrooms sourced locally right down to the postcode. Used to be regular down Plymouth way at Bigbury 3-4 times a year with the ex too, would love to eat there. He'll be allowed to put the Masterchef thing up now won't he, no mention of it yet.