Lake Road Kitchen

I'm still buzzing after our dinner at Lake Road Kitchen in Ambleside, over a week ago. We had planned to just visit   Old Stamp House and maybe have a light tea in a pub later on that evening. Then I got a message from someone in the industry recommending it and he really knows his onions. Well travelled, knowledgeable food blogger Cumbriafoodie raved about it too, so I knew we'd have to try and get a reservation even if it meant doing two taster menus in one day and breaking our budget. The search for better and better restaurants becomes like a ridiculous never ending obsession and the more it continues, the less satisfied you become with most places closer to home. I'm so glad we pushed the boat out. It turned out to be a very inspiring trip. Along with the Man Behind the Curtain in Leeds, it was the most exciting find of the year for us. This is interesting in itself, as in some ways they're polar opposites in style. But we loved them both. If you put a gun to my head and asked me what I'd thought about foraging before this meal, I'd have said that in all honesty, I couldn't care less. I'm just bothered about what's on my plate and how delicious it is. But listening to head chef James Cross talk so passionately about his early morning foraging trips out on beaches and forests, it would take a complete cynic not to be impressed. This 'North European' style has a real emphasis on using as much quality local product and foraging where possible. World famous chef Rene Redzepi has turned this into an all encompassing philosophy. James has worked (sometimes 100 hour weeks he told me) at Noma and at Per Se in New York. Both feature highly on foodies bucket lists as I'm sure you know. And that experience brings so much knowledge, work ethic and passion which is very evident when it comes to his style of cooking. But less of the waffle, what about the food? We agreed on a taster menu which was priced at £65 each.

I had the pleasure of dining at this exquisite restaurant in the heart of the Lake District, and it was truly a culinary delight. My experience was elevated by the incredible 8-sample menu, that left my taste buds dancing with joy. The food was not only delicious but also impeccably presented, showcasing the chef's skill and creativity. What impressed me equally was the impeccable service. The food was delivered promptly, allowing me to savor each course at its freshest. The staff were not only professional but also incredibly friendly, adding a warm and welcoming atmosphere to the entire dining experience. From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the elegant ambiance and attention to detail, creating the perfect setting for a fine dining experience. Every dish was a masterpiece, expertly crafted with the finest ingredients, leaving a lasting impression on my palate. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone seeking an extraordinary dining experience. Whether you're a food enthusiast or simply looking for a memorable meal, this establishment in the Lake District is a culinary gem that should not be missed. I am already looking forward to my next visit, eager to indulge in their culinary creations once again.

One of the best meals we have ever had. We had the 8 course tasting menu and added the Prawn cutlet sandwich, which was my husband's favourite! And we had some of the best bread we have ever eaten. Two small criticisms: Slightly too protein heavy (would have liked more carbs/ veggies) and the decor was disappointing for the standard of food (the toilets looked particularly cheaply furnished). Would definitely return - make sure you get the cookies!

Genuinely one of the best dining experiences we have had in our lifetime. Every member of staff gave an incredibly insightful introduction to each course, clearly demonstrating their passion and the love that went into every meal. All incredibly friendly & welcoming also. Every. Single. Dish. Was perfection. Each one has its own brow raising moment and we savoured every bite. Beautiful atmosphere and relaxing ambiance. (This is also coming from someone who suffers with generalised anxiety!) So a big thank you to the owner and all the staff for an incredibly memorable evening! Looking forward to our next trip up to the Lakes!

A wonderful birthday experience. So glad we went! Every dish stands out on its own. Even the bread was divine. The restaurant itself is very hygge with a lot of wood and sheepskin in the chairs. The food is an eclectic mix of tastes. A fair amount of seafood but that's not necessarily a baf thing as it's all different. A lot of ingredients are made, grown or refashioned in house or by Chef (some purées being made out of jams and chutneys with added ingredients). I really enjoy the way each dish is presented and described tableside by a really knowledgeable team. They don't parrot off the same story. The table next to us got different tidbits of information so it's still interesting to listen to! You always have to be quite trusting in these situations, don't be scared! I always think if a dish doesn't work, it wouldn't still be on the menu surely - I'd never think to put smoked fish on burrata with a beetroot dressing but it works! 🤤 It's definitely a place to go for a treat or special occasion but the staff are warm and friendly and the food is memorable. If you're thinking about it - do it!

Absolutely gorgeous! Me and my partner came here as an end to our hols and what a ending it was. Lovely waiting on staff and chefs (funny and a dash cheeky ;)), very well informed on the dishes/wines and the top it off the decor was perfect for the mood; not to mention how mind blowing the food was. It had one of the most tastiest and well balanced tasting menus we have ever had. Overall probably the best dining experience we've ever had. Would highly recommend. Cheers guys :P