The best restaurants in Bucks we've reviewed this year

And there’s plenty to choose from in and around south Bucks – both excellent and not-so excellent.

Every week we review a different eatery in the area to give our readers the most informed choice possible.

If you’re heading out to eat this bank holiday weekend and need a little inspiration, here are five of our favourites from 2019 so far.

We've also looked at the latest restaurants and takeaways RATED FOR HYGIENE - see the story here 

Kappad, High Street, High Wycombe

South Indian cuisine - We called it 'a Keralan Paradise'

What did we love?

The paneer, a light cheese which becomes silky and takes on the heat of the chillies perfectly, was served deliciously caramelised with peppers and onions and a crisp side salad to complement.

The prawns were incredibly special, served in their shell which keeps the flavour at its finest. Everything on offer to diners is at its very best, unapologetically spiced and flavoursome.

Kappad Lamb Curry was incredibly creamy and unctuous. The recommended bread for this dish was an absolute knockout.

What did our review say?

"The authenticity of the food at Kappad was evident immediately. 

"As I write this I am smiling, thinking of how each tiny detail is thought of and each dish so unlike anything I have ever tasted. Those who have been to Kerala and eaten at Kappad testify to the authenticity of the cuisine and the expertise of the chefs."

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE - Kappad, High Wycombe

The Thatch, Thame 

A quaint old pub with a modern twist, serving top notch British classics

What did we love?

The fillet Wellington was absolutely amazing. The pastry was stuffed with mushrooms which gave it moisture and a bit of bite and the vegetables with it were cooked to perfection.

It was more than proper honest hearty pub grub. The dish looked amazing and tasted even better.

The dark chocolate tart with chantilly cream was indulgent. Rich and full of sweetness, the dark chocolate stopped this from becoming too sickly and it was heavenly to eat. A perfect end to a sublime three courses.

What did our reviewer say?

"From the minute we set foot into the Thatch, we were warmly greeted and looked after so well by Evelin and her excellent team.

"It was one of the best main courses I have eaten at a restaurant. It really was that good.

"I had never been to Thame before but something makes me think I will be going back there again very soon."

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE - The Thatch, Thame

Lata Lata, Paul's Row, High Wycombe

So good they named it twice. This breezy, effortlessly cool bar and restaurant is possibly High Wycombe's best, and the food is something special.

What did we love?

What didn't we love? It would be criminal to overlook the arancini. Three varieties are available of what surely will become a signature dish for Lata Lata, with each rice ball coming perfectly browned, stuffed full of meat or cheese and nestling on a bed of rich tomato sauce. These are sublime - try one now.

Oher highlights include gambas (king prawns), pig cheeks, a white bean and garlic stew with endless layers of flavour and the burrata – a dome of heart-meltingly soft buffalo mozzarella laced with cream almost too pretty to sink your fork into.

What did our reviewer say?

The flexibility of the menu is such that this place is ideal for a large party out for a sit-down dinner, a couple of friends at the bar sharing one or two plates or even a quick-stop office lunch or lazy brunch with a paper and crossword.

And the warm, personable service comes with an overwhelming feeling that the owners and staff love what they’re doing and want you to share in that experience.

High Wycombe has seen a surge of independents of late, all offering something a little bit different. Lata Lata not only fits nicely in the mix, but might just emerge as the best of the lot. We’re lucky to have it.

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE - Lata Lata High Wycombe

The Old Bengal, Beaconsfield Old Town

It's not just a curry house, it's a superb curry house. 

What did we love?

The mixed starter consisted of chicken tikka, sheek kebab, onion bhaji and a samosa and all four packed a punch with a real hit of spice and rich flavours. It was delicious.

The king prawn butterfly was very fresh. The prawn was succulent and bursting with flavour and tasted like it was caught on the same day.

What did our reviewer say?

As you walk into the Old Bengal, you are immediately made to feel at home by the friendly and wonderful service from the staff.

Chef Mohammed came out to greet us and he explained that he favoured quality produce to cook for his customers, treating every ingredient with tender loving care.

If you are reading this, just go down and treat yourself to a wonderful evening where you will be looked after and fed like a king.

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE - The Old Bengal

ALSO READ: The 5 most-ordered dishes in High Wycombe from Deliveroo

Gilbeys, Amersham

A firm favourite among Amersham locals. And it can claim to serve the best Sunday roast in town.

What did we love?

Kataifi-coated prawn & crispy squid  with pickled fennel, bacon crumb and lemon wasabi mayonnaise. The prawn was absolutely incredible, a flaky pastry surrounded a huge, juicy offering.

The Cornish Cod served with chorizo, roasted cherry tomatoes, shaved fennel, avocado  and arroz verde. Arroz Verde is a vibrant green rice with flavours that hugely complement fish and the woody notes of avocado and fennel which really sing from this dish.

What did our reviewer say?

We have loved Gilbey’s in Old Amersham since we moved to the area and visited for a Sunday roast.

At the time of booking, I gave my card details as a deposit which was new to me, however it is clear why they are so popular and claim to do the ‘best Sunday roast in Amersham’.

Once again, another meal in Gilbey’s is another fantastic experience - what are you waiting for?

READ THE FULL REVIEW HERE - Gilbey's Amersham