Living locally we have visited the G&D a number of times for Sunday lunch which is consistently of exceptional quality. Atmosphere is relaxed and informal whilst the food and wine would grace the most sophisticated of London eateries without being pretentious or over complex.

On the 6th of December 2008 the G&D hosted a party for 40 guests for my wifes 40th Birthday, organising a beautifully appointed and lighted (and heated!) marquee and providing us with a fabulous feast from their "bring me food" concept. Similar to Tapas in concept this involves providing great platters of various dishes for all three courses which can be passed around the table and shared.

Our chosen menu included Oysters, Salmon, marinated calimari, Anti Pasta, chicken parfait, scallop & black pudding brochettes, rare carpaccio of beef with celeriac, warm duck breast salad, roasted chicken, steamed sea bass, Eton mess, chocolate and raspberry fresh cream roulade and English cheeses. With all that food you may think you would be offered a mere mouthfull of each, but no the quantities were extermely generous and the quality and freshness was exceptional (as were the accompanying wines).

It is true to say that the G&D is higher priced than other local pub restaurants, but as the standard local menus consist mostly of three varieties of steak with a 1970's sauce option this would seem quite appropriate for the signifcantly better quality and choice.

I would thouroughly recommend a visit to anyone who enjoys something a little more special!