Harden's survey result
Summary
“The delightful setting in Constable Country” makes this famous landmark – opened in 1925 – ideal for “special occasions and memorable meals”, and the beamed interiors are almost a match for the dreamy Dedham Vale location. But the pricey food has too often been judged “average” over many years – critics feel it “doesn’t live up to its reputation or ideal surroundings”.
Summary
This “beautiful location in the heart of Constable country” (indeed it was painted by the great man) with a terrace next to the River Stour, has hosted a restaurant for 70 years, with “food that has returned to form after a few years of not quite living up to the hype”. There’s a minority view, however, that they still need to “up the food quality” to match the location and prices.
Summary
The “stunning riverside setting makes for a very picturesque venue” beside the River Stour, in a half-timbered building with a terrace that can be seen in paintings by Constable. “The food is pretty damn good as well”, which makes it “ideal for a special occasion”. The restaurant celebrates its 70th anniversary this year and its cooking is traditional – even “a little staid” to certain tastes. But sometimes that’s just what is required: “sitting by the river on a sunny day after lockdown eating fresh local asparagus and then lobster was absolutely wonderful!”.
Summary
The “superb setting” – a picturesque, half-timbered building by the River Stour complete with riverside terrace, which features in paintings by Constable – helps maintain the allure of this classic, famously romantic destination. However, its large loyal following from Essex and beyond also award its updated traditional cuisine consistently high ratings.
For 33 years we've been curating reviews of the UK's most notable restaurant. In a typical year, diners submit over 50,000 reviews to create the most authoritative restaurant guide in the UK. Each year, the guide is re-written from scratch based on this survey (although for the 2021 edition, reviews are little changed from 2020 as no survey could run for that year).
Have you eaten at Le Talbooth?
Gun Hill, Dedham, CO7 6HP
Restaurant details
Le Talbooth Restaurant Diner Reviews
"Walk in for lunch had space. Harden's review is harsh and we found it rather good instead. A delightful room overlooking the river and the garden. Service is noteworthy for all the staff greeting you as they passed. Also quiet and polite. Cheese mouse was a little boring but Mackerel was perfect, single large fish looking good and perfect taste for this less than subtle fish. Main course were a soft tasty pork loin and plaice fillet - 3 large pieces. Dessert shared Mille Feuille was a French master class. "
"Reviews are all wrong. It was an excellent meal, a bit more expensive than other local gastropubs but the presentation was up to Michelin standards as well as the food. Mackerel, goat cheese mousse, plaice, pork tenderloin, mille feuille. "
Prices
 Drinks |
|
|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £29.50 |
| Filter Coffee | £5.00 |
 Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Service | 10.00% |
Gun Hill, Dedham, CO7 6HP
Opening hours
| Monday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Tuesday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Wednesday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Friday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑2:15 pm, 6:30 pm‑9 pm |
| Sunday | 12 pm‑4 pm |
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