The Black Rat

A white-painted one-time pub, The Black Rat (and don't be put off by the name!) has been sympathetically remodelled and oozes old world, rustic charm and character. Think original beams and timbers, exposed brickwork, wide floorboards and an inglenook fireplace, while walls are lined with an eclectic mix of prints, drawings and old oils. Solid-wood tables come partnered by old church chairs, while upstairs there's a small red-walled bar and sitting room decked out in striking period flock wallpaper (there's also a private dining room). Service is friendly and informal, while the kitchen is driven by locally sourced, seasonal produce and shows its pedigree via a modern British approach delivering generosity, flavour and consistency; take grilled halibut with baked fennel, basil and a bisque sauce, for example.

M3 junct 9/A31 towards Winchester & Bar End until T-junct. Turn right at traffic lights, restaurant 600yds on left.

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