Dorking, British, Traditional Restaurant Guide

Abu Dhabi royal Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed al-Nahyan was – as of mid 2025 – rumoured to be on the verge of buying a £1 billion stake in Richard Caring’s restaurant empire, of which this famous brasserie chain is the crown jewel. Presumably, he’s more interested in ‘rolling out’ the brand in The Gulf and beyond rather than dropping by for a Salmon Fishcake and ‘Ivy Chocolate Bombe’, but if he’d asked the opinion of our annual diners’ poll, we’re not sure that he’d sign on the dotted line. “How can a restaurant with this heritage produce such uninspired, tick-box food?” is a question merited by its poor ratings, ditto what explains the “very slow and disinterested service”? The answer may be that “you don’t come here for the food, obviously” but for the “gorgeous” interior design and “picturesque” locations that continue to underpin their appeal. Let’s hope for the Sheikh’s sake that the middle classes of the Arab World are as undiscerning as those from the UK!

2023 Review: A couple of excellent reports suggest it’s worth considering this old pub reinvented as a hotel and restaurant (a couple of years ago), between the maze of Hampton Court Palace and Bushy Park. The refit is very attractive and the menu of superior gastropub fare is well-rated.

2022 Review: “Beautifully refurbished” by the current owners (Young’s Brewery), even if not everyone is a fan of its chain-ification, this “great local” – replete with roaring fires, seasonal grub and pleasant garden – is of note for its daily chalkboard specials, but they also do fancy game nights.

This “good local” beside Wimbledon Common, co-owned by TV chef Paul Merrett (also of the Victoria in East Sheen), does “a great Sunday lunch – and you can take the dog”. Competent staff ensure you get “excellent service even with a big group”; “the only disadvantage is its popularity, which can make for a noisy experience”.

This “buzzy pub/restaurant opposite Hampton Court Palace” is one of the more regally set Brunning & Price outposts, turning out well-priced and noshable gastroboozer grub; “the pub is downstairs, the restaurant above it via a spiral staircase with views of the palace and Thames”. Reporters have nothing but praise for the venue (“love the vibe, love the food, love going there for Sunday lunch”) and “it’s dog-friendly too”.