The Roux family's riverside restaurant in Bray has held three Michelin stars since 1985 - the longest-held three-star rating outside France. The classically French cuisine is served in an idyllic Thames-side setting. Alain Roux continues the family tradition with dishes like foie gras terrine, langoustines, and souffles of extraordinary lightness.
The Waterside Inn on Ferry Road in Bray, Berkshire is one of the most remarkable restaurants in the world: it has held three Michelin stars since 1985, making it the longest-held three-star establishment outside France. Michel Roux Sr. founded it in 1972 and the kitchen has been guided by his son Alain Roux since 2002. The cooking is classically French — precise, refined, and deeply rooted in Escoffier-era technique — executed at a level that no amount of trend has disturbed. The dining room opens directly onto the Thames, and in warm weather the riverside terrace is one of the most idyllic places to eat in England. Signatures include a foie gras terrine of extraordinary richness, lobster preparations under the Homard Roux designation, and soufflés — Grand Marnier, passion fruit, raspberry — that are widely considered the finest in Britain. The wine list is monumental, covering Bordeaux and Burgundy at exceptional depth. Prices are high: a full dinner with wine pairing will approach £400 per person. Lunch is more accessible, and several fixed-price menus reduce the outlay while maintaining the full quality of the kitchen. Bray village sits two miles from Maidenhead and is accessible by taxi from the station.
Location
51.5090, -0.7124 View on map
Highlights
- Three Michelin stars held continuously since 1985 — the longest outside France
- Riverside terrace directly on the Thames, among England's finest dining settings
- Soufflés considered the finest in Britain — Grand Marnier, passion fruit, or raspberry
- Classic French haute cuisine executed with Escoffier-era precision under Alain Roux
- Monumental wine list with exceptional Bordeaux and Burgundy depth
Tips for visiting
- Lunch is significantly more accessible in price than dinner and the full kitchen quality applies.
- The riverside terrace is the best setting in summer — request specifically when booking.
- Book months ahead for dinner; the Sunday lunch is one of the most coveted meals in England.
- The Bray village setting pairs naturally with The Fat Duck — both restaurants are within walking distance.
- Dress code is smart-formal; jacket is expected and the atmosphere rewards dressing accordingly.
Accessibility
The Waterside Inn is set across a traditional building with some steps between sections. The ground-floor dining room is accessible, but the riverside garden has uneven ground. Visitors with mobility requirements should contact the restaurant directly when booking.
Frequently asked questions
How long has The Waterside Inn held three Michelin stars?
The Waterside Inn has held three Michelin stars since 1985, a period of more than 40 years. This makes it the longest-holding three-star restaurant outside France and one of the most consistent in Michelin's history.
What kind of food is served at The Waterside Inn?
The cuisine is classic French — the style of cooking codified by Escoffier and practised at the highest level. Dishes include foie gras, lobster, turbot, and soufflés. The kitchen does not follow trends; it pursues its tradition with complete commitment.
How much does dinner at The Waterside Inn cost?
A full dinner with wine pairing will typically cost £350-400 per person. Fixed-price lunch menus offer better value. The restaurant does not compromise on ingredients or service regardless of which menu is chosen.