We have been missing that feeling - the wonderful time we have when we spend some time at a restaurant with our loved one.
With lockdown restrictions in place, it has been a while since we got the opportunity to share a meal with our partner.
But with restaurants opening for indoor dining from Monday (May 17) we will get a chance to catch up again.
And the restaurants need our support as well. Having missed out on business for a long time, the hospitality industry is looking forward to welcoming guests back as soon as possible.
If you are planning to visit a restaurant in Basingstoke for a romantic dinner from next week, but are not sure where to go, the Gazette has suggested some charming spots, many of which are tried-and-tested.
Many restaurants are already booked out for weekends, but don't forget to call up and reserve a table if you are planning to visit any of these places.
7. Cote Brasserie
Where: Festival Place, Basingstoke RG21 7BA England
01256 591616
Opening on: Monday, May 17
Ratings: 4 stars, 252 reviews
Speciality: French, European, Vegetarian-friendly
Diners said: "Love cote so was made up when i got there to find my longed for French Onion soup was finally back along with the original menu! Fabulous dinner!"
"My partner and I visited this Saturday just gone and had a lovely meal. It was a fair bit expensive for what it was, with 2 drinks, 2 mains and 2 starters coming too £72 with added tip (which is done automatically). But it was to celebrate Exactly a year till our wedding so was a nice treat without our children!"
"Due to the current situation I have not been able to eat out as much as usual. This was a pleasant surprise when my middle grandson treated me.
I chose the Breton Chicken for my main course which I have had before and it did not dissapoint. As I was driving I had to limit myself to one glass of Sancerre. Overall a very pleasant evening."
6. Miller & Carter
Where: Winchester Road Down Grange, Basingstoke RG22 4ET England
01256 461149
Ratings: 4 stars, 418 reviews
Opening on: Monday, May 17
Speciality: British, Vegetarian-friendly, gluten-free options
Diners said: "I was told about this restaurant by a friend and I'm glad I listened to her, the surroundings, decor , food, service and friendliness of the staff was excellent, I'll definitely be going there again."
"Phenomenal service!! I have severe allergies to onions and Chris went above and beyond to keep me safe knowing this, he checked everything that i ordered to make sure i could have it, catered for our every need. It’s mine and my partners new favourite restaurant thank you so much!"
"Lovely meal out for a family birthday, felt very safe, food was fantastic and service to match. Big thank you to Jose- great customer service."
5. Tang Chinese Restaurant
Where: 20 Winchester Street, Basingstoke RG21 7DZ England
01256 330400
Opening on: Thursday, May 20
Ratings: 4.5 stars, 360 reviews
Speciality: Chinese, Asian, Cantonese
Diners said: "My partner and I visited this restaurant during our stay in Basingstoke. The service we received was very impressive. The food was delicious and really good value for money. We will certainly return if we are in the area again!"
"Still our favourite Chinese. We don't live that close but Tangs is worth the drive. The crispy noodle with duck and honey ribs, YUM! So many of my favourites, perfectly cooked."
"Many Chinese restaurants seem to compromise of food quality for a cheaper meal but the food at Tangs is always good. None of the cheap and cheerful buffet style here. Beautiful decor, young staff, bright and cheerful."
4. The Lime Leaf
Where: 25/25A London Street, Basingstoke RG21 7PG England
01256 355272
Opening on: Monday, May 17
Ratings: 4 stars, 550 reviews
Speciality: Asian, Thai, Vegetarian-friendly
Diners said: "First time ordering from The Lime Leaf and we will absolutely be back. We had the lime leaf starter which was incredible! Followed by the traditional mains and some sticky rice I can't explain how yummy it was."
"I love this place, can't wait for it to open for indoor dining again. I had my usual monthly Thai Again from here and will never try anywhere else willingly."
"Excellent food , clean and fast service with a smile. A frequent visitor to Thailand found this gem of a place in the city center in England was a complete surprise. I Will visit again."
3. The Palm Brasserie
Where: Andover Road The Palm Brasserie, Basingstoke RG25 3AX England
01256 782596
Opening on: Monday, May 17 (Currently open for outdoor dining)
Ratings: 4.5 stars, 142 reviews
Speciality: International, European, Asian
Diners said: "Friday night dinner, restaurant completely full, but the quality of the food and the service was excellent, also represented great value for money. This is a great restaurant, beautiful decor, good food and service...well done!"
"Beautifully refurbed restaurant, would be great in the summer with an outdoor area. Food delicious, steak cooked perfectly. Staff really friendly and personable. Choices on the menu are different which makes it all the more a great place to eat ! Would recommend and return!"
"Went today with my family(4 of us) for my birthday dinner. I was impressed.Clean,beautifully decorated and very spacious restaurant. The food was fresh, delicious and on time. The staff were excellent. We thoroughly enjoyed and would visit again. Pleasantly surprised!"
2. The Olive House
Where: 21 Church Street, Basingstoke RG21 7QQ England
07493 636588
Opening on: Tuesday, May 18
Ratings: 4.5 stars, 391 reviews
Speciality: Mediterranean, European, Turkish
Diners said: "I have now been to the Olive House on 3 occasions and every time I've had a great meal. The last time was for my birthday in December 2020 and once again I had a great time and they even served me a complimentary pudding with a candle and got everyone to sing happy birthday to me. As ever the food was delicious and the service great and very friendly. This is a great restaurant that you should try."
"Lovely Atmopshere with great staff. The menu had so much to chose from and all beautifuly described on the menu. The staff were all freindly and happy to help and the resturant was Covid-19 safe with all goverment regs adhered too and with also a festive cheer. I'd higly recommend a visit, i know i will be coming back."
"Lovely restaurant, friendly staff, great atmosphere. Menu has great choice selection. Food was well cooked, very tasty. Slightly pricey."
1. Spices and Spirits
Where: 3 Kings Furlong Centre Free parking available, Basingstoke RG21 8YT England
01256 636575
Opening on: Monday, May 17
Ratings: 5 stars, 312 reviews
Speciality:: Indian, Asian, Vegetarian-friendly
Diners said: "Brilliant service fantastic food, what else can I say. Authentic tastes,great portions and so easy to order. Very very good."
"We have visited Spices and Spirits many times, both for eating in and takeaway. The owner is extremely attentive and friendly and can't seem to do enough for you. As a vegetarian I asked if they had any vegetarian red wine and although they didn't at the time, he offered to go to the shop next door to pick some up for me, which was very kind and made a nice change from being looked at like an inconvenience! The food is always amazing and we will return again as soon as we can!"
"One of my favourite restaurants in Basingstoke! The food, the atmosphere, the friendly service with a smile - everything is spot on. Highly recommended."
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