New Milton, French - Restaurant Guide

2025 Review: “Fresh local fish” is the star turn at this beachside restaurant – in “an excellent location with wonderful coastal views on a good day”. Chef Andy Waters worked under the great French chef Paul Bocuse early in his career. Top Tip – “they also serve an exceptional breakfast”.

“A really lovely restaurant that’s a real find in Lymington” – Andrew and Marjolaine Du Bourg have run this fine dining venue near the harbour since 2014 and all reports suggest that “if you want to celebrate a special occasion, or just have a self-indulgent dining experience, then Elderflower is the place to come”. It’s a consciously ‘haute’ experience, where there are four, five and seven-course modern British tasting menus for £85, £95 and £105 per person with “interesting and flavourful ingredient combinations, beautifully presented” – “Michelin star level food without the fuss and extra expense”. “The staff (a young team) are all pleasant and professional” too.

2023 Review: A “glorious summer lunch spot” – “if the sun is shining you could be in the South of France drinking rosé and eating lovely – if somewhat pricey – seafood to the soundtrack of Dmitri from Paris”. The seventeenth-century hotel is run by Prince Harry’s pal Howard Spooner, who last year won a High Court battle against his former business partner Sally Johnson, following the pair’s failed attempt to turn The George into a celebrity retreat for A-listers, including old rockers, yachtsmen, polo players and wealthy Americans.

2022 Review: “Amazing food and friendly service” characterise this “impressive” restaurant on the edge of the New Forest, run for more than 20 years by chef Mike Womersley (ex-Lucknam Park) and his wife Jayne. “The ambience has been transformed by a refurbishment – a welcome surprise since our last visit”.

“Superb French cuisine in outstanding New Forest scenery” attracts a dedicated following for this characterful country bistro, whose “delightful ambience” and “friendly, very Gallic service” are directed by patron Claude Laage, originally from Alsace, who founded the establishment more than 30 years ago. This year’s biggest gripe? “A bit less emphasis on red meat in the mains and 20th-century British confectionery brands in the desserts would make it even better!”