The hustle and bustle of Christmas has officially begun and as everyone starts to venture out to celebrate the festive season with friends and family, we have pulled together a list of ideal local businesses to head down to this season.
Local independent businesses have always been an integral part of close-knit communities and typically one aspect that can bring a community together.
As a nation we have celebrated small business Saturday this month, so why not head down to your local restaurant, bar or deli and enjoy that extra special personalised service that only comes from shopping local.
Here are some of the small local businesses serving food and drink in the area of Bracknell Forest.
The Hive – Crowthorne
This small husband and wife owned craft beer and coffee shop located 400 yards from Crowthorne train station on Dukes Ride, has just celebrated their one-year anniversary and have been going from strength to strength.
The bar offers small-batch craft beer, spirits and artisan coffee in ‘a relaxed atmosphere’.
Constantly adding to their menu, you are sure to find an interesting craft beer, coffee or pastry of your choosing at The Hive.
A statement from the owners read: “Our ethos is to source locally and be environmentally friendly whilst showcasing the best of the UK’s independent craft drinks suppliers.
As the local business celebrated their first birthday last month they commented:
“We can’t believe it’s nearly been a year since we opened the doors!!!! what a crazy 12 months it’s been… THANK YOU to all our amazing customers (and the dogs) for supporting us.”
Loic’s deli, Crowthorne
This bespoke independent delicatessen is located in the village of Crowthorne and boosts a small group of suppliers that deliver the highest quality cuisine.
The local business sources ingredients from France, Italy, Spain, and from the local area offering fresh speciality produce right on your doorstep.
A large selection of wines, cheeses and meats are also available on display.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or just want to try something a little special for the evening, Loic’s deli is the place to be.
Ruchetta, Wokingham
This is probably the smallest local eatery in Bracknell Forest in terms of size of the premises.
This classic Italian restaurant is based in Wokingham town centre and is ranked number 6 out of 157 restaurants in the town on Trip advisor. This fine dining experience feels like you have stepped right into a classic Italian home and the fact that it has roots in Southern Italy is no surprise.
Ruchetta is led by chef and owner Angelo Colao and creates his dishes using seasonal and local ingredients.
The reviews from customers on TripAdvisor couldn’t be better. One customer said:
“I have been eating at Ruchetta restaurant for many years and the food and the service just gets better and better the attention Angelo gives to all his customers is outstanding
Nothing is too much trouble.
“Angelo and his team are so friendly and inviting when you arrive to when you have finished your evening.”
The Golden Retriever, Bracknell
If traditional pub food in a warm and comforting atmosphere is your vibe, head down to the ‘Golden Retriever’ in Bracknell near Swinley Forest this weekend. The building, that used to be a former forester’s cottage and dog kennels dates back to the 1840’s and boosts an open log fire and classic cuisine.
As the name suggests, The Golden Retriever is a dog friendly pub. They even have water and treats available for your four-legged friend to ensure their comfort during your meal. The restaurant is praised for it’s attentive but unobtrusive service and value for money.
A customer has commented:
“Absolutely great service, food and vibe. We really enjoyed our Sunday roasts and thought that the staff were really friendly. Despite it being really busy we never felt like we were being ignored or not getting enough attention.”
Fabulous drinks company
If you fancy yourself a cocktail expert or prodigy mixologist then the Fabulous Drinks company, based in Berkshire will be right up your alley.
From their Royal Berkshire Pink Gin to Santa Cruz liquors everything they produce uses only the finest natural ingredient, in small batches.
This drinks company boosts their creations on old family recipes with a modern twist. Their Santa Cruz liquors in particular date back three generations from Santa Cruz, Maderia while using home grown ingredients from local suppliers.
The collection can be found either on-line or at one of the local Christmas Fairs across Berkshire and London this season.
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