There are few things better than a restaurant with commanding views – and the vista across the tranquil waters of the River Avon makes the Rooftop at Stratford’s Royal Shakespeare theatre a must-visit.
Upon entering, you’re immediately struck by the large windows running the whole width of the restaurant providing stunning views out and across the Avon. Even on the cloudy day we visited, we happily sat watching groups of young rowers go back and forth on the river below. Add to this the tasteful décor, warm and inviting ambiance, and enticing menu packed with local delicacies and it’s the perfect setting for a pre-show dinner or a leisurely lunch.
The Prelude: We started with a delicious bread board of sourdough and focaccia from Mark’s Cotswold Bakery before tucking into a watercress and garden pea soup with tahini cream and black sesame seeds, and a very refreshing prawn and crayfish salad with orange segments, lemon puree and baby capers.
The Main Act: The main courses are where The Rooftop truly shines. As a vegetarian, it was lovely to be torn between a couple of great-sounding mains but I was glad I plumped for smoked tofu served with harissa-spiced giant couscous, toasted pine nuts and sunflower seeds, and tender stem broccoli – basically, lots of my favourite ingredients on one plate. My partner chose Teriyaki pork belly with Asian egg noodles paired with pak choi and mangetout in a hoisin and plum sauce that was both vibrant and flavourful.
A Sweet Finale: A tough choice, as I saw lots of treat-worthy dessert plates arriving a surrounding tables, but in the end I opted for a very decadent iced pistachio and chocolate parfait with pistachio praline. And yes, it was a tasty as it sounds! It was a cheese board for my partner, which included a lovely local selection of goats cheese, Shropshire Blue, Barber’s vintage 1833 cheddar and brie with biscuits, grapes, and apple and cider chutney.
The service throughout was top notch too, with the attentive staff providing recommendations. Orders were taken quickly and food arrived promptly, ensuring we finished our meal with plenty of time before the night’s performance of The School For Scandal but without feeling rushed.
