The Artichoke

9 Market Square, Old Amersham, AMERSHAM, HP7 0DF

This Grade II listed building on the market square combines the best of its historical features - oak beams, painted brick walls and a vast open fireplace - with a chic 21st-century sheen via walnut tables, leather chairs and modern art. Expansion into next door's property has resulted in three distinct and stylish dining areas. Classical techniques embrace up-to-date ideas, and the kitchen avoids too many flavours on the plate to showcase the quality of ingredients. A Gewürztraminer sorbet is a gentle companion to pan-fried foie gras with figs, while lightly curried Isle of Skye scallops are more robustly partnered by pickled carrot, artichoke purée and toasted coconut. Main courses share the same attributes - a beautifully cooked fillet of Cornish sea bass, for example, with ravioli generously stuffed with lobster, spaghetti of vegetables and sauced with lobster bisque infused with saffron and orange, or saddle of Chilterns venison with caramelised shallots, kohlrabi, chanterelles and venison sauce. Finish on a high with pear and caramelised white chocolate galette with Poire William sorbet.

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Have visited this restaurant on numerous occassions and have never been disappointed, the food just keeps getting better - can't beleive they haven't been awarded a star yet.

Reviewer: Geordie, High Wycombe
Visited: 10 September 2007

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Despite living in Amersham for the past 5 years we had never actually made it to this local restaurant. However a birthday dinner location was required and we decided to try this, the poshest of many in the old town. We enjoyed the Tasting Menu, £55 each, and found the service to be really quite high class, comparable with any of the best restaurants in London, so much so that we wondered why there was no Michelin star. Highly recommended.

Reviewer: Alex, Amersham
Visited: 07 July 2007

224 of 429 people found this review helpful.
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