There’s certainly nothing fishy about this restaurant, just off the London Road in Wokingham, writes Harry Pamely
Walking in to Loch Fyne, the first noticeable quality to see is that there is definitely a nautical theme going on.
You could almost imagine that you are on a ship with a penchant for eating anything that swims alongside it.
As a result, it is a visually impressive place.
On entering you are greeted by friendly staff who then escort you to your table.
As they do, you will walk past an impressive dislay of fish on ice, whetting your appetite for what is to come.
It’s a bit like being at a fishmonger’s, but it’s a restaurant where you can also buy some fish to cook at home should anything really catch your fancy … or you want to convince your wife that this one didn’t get away.
The drinks menu has been chosen to pair with the fish. As every Bond fan knows, you need white wine with fish and there’s a good selection available, along with other drinks including whiskeys and vodkas as well as soft drinks.
While this is a treat for any fish lover, what happens if your fellow diner is fish averse, as mine was?
Loch Fyne is aware that some people’s tastes lie outside the water, with a few non-fish options that will cater for all tastes. The menu includes duck, lamb, chicken and steak and there are some vegetarian options, although some will be disappointed with the choice.
There is a broad and varied choice of fish available for selection, with interesting twists on seafood that I had not considered before.
Alongside more traditional English fish and chips, there were Asian-inspired dishes like Seafood ramen, and there was a special, limited edition menu featuring dishes from all over Europe.
As a result, you can try something new or have something that you know you will like.
I tried oysters on a whim, and found the taste to be rather nice, especially the one in tempura batter with chilli jam, which provided a pleasant kick of spiciness.
My guest had the chargrilled aubergine rolls, which were fresh and full of flavour. They came goat’s curd as opposed to cheese, so it made a welcome change.
The salt and pepper squid were fresh and not rubbery at all, with a delicious punchy flavour added by the seasoning.
Next, came the cod and chips, on the basis that it would be a good measure of Loch Fyne’s ability to do fish.
It was of a good size, and perfectly cooked, served alongside delicious twice-cooked chips.
My non-seafood eating companion had the steak, which was cooked to their specification and they were pleased with it.
To finish, we shared a tasting ashet, comprising small amounts of the desserts on the menu. While they all hit the spot, a particular hit with us both was the sticky date cake, which was deliciously rich, and served with a beautiful sauce, reminiscent of sticky toffee pudding.
Staff are friendly and have are knowledgeable about the menu, so if you are gluten-free or have an allergy, then you would be helped by asking them.
With car parking available, and the ability to catch the Lion bus which stops close by, accessing it is fairly easy.
And with lunchtime menu deals and a well stocked bar, Loch Fyne is good for all occasions, not just an evening out.
Loch Fyne Wokingham, London Road, Wokingham RG40 1RD
0118 912 3260
