Of course “Best Restaurant” is a personal choice, not an absolute fact. Everyone has their own taste in food. Some only eat curry, others never eat it. Some only eat meat, others never eat it. And everyone has their own taste in the atmosphere they want. Some people thrive on noisy background music and lots of loud conversations around them. Others hate this, and want peace and quiet. Some people enjoy the drama and stage setting of formal dining with lots of cutlery, tablecloths and waiters. Others are only interested in the food.
Restaurant critics help, up to a point, but their views are shaded by the simple fact that they are restaurant critics and so eat out all the time. To them novelty is always good, and price is never an object. The rest of us, enjoying a well-earned treat, see things differently.
Plus, things change. A review from a year ago can be very misleading. The chef may have left, or the ownership changed. Sometimes the positive review is the problem. A restaurant becomes crowded, and the owners stop trying so hard.
That’s why OpenTable’s guide to Hertfordshire Restaurants is so useful. It’s updated every month, and it’s updated by ordinary restaurant clients like you and me. Lots of people use OpenTable to book restaurants, then to leave their review afterwards. OpenTable simply collates all these reviews into a monthly top ten. Go ahead and have a look: you can, of course, book online. As of November 2024, their top choice is The Gables Restaurant in Newgate Street Village.
An alternative is Tripadvisor here. As of November 2024 they list 2,032 restaurants and eating places in Hertfordshire. Luckily, they make it easy to narrow down your search, by type of restaurant, price, and review ratings. The current top, based on 636 reviews, is Crockers Tring. It’s good enough to feature in the Michelin guide. It’s also rather expensive. The Michelin guide says: “On the first floor of a Tring townhouse, behind a U-shaped counter, you’ll find Chef Scott Barnard in his element. He visibly enjoys interacting with his guests and proudly explaining his dishes at this chef’s table operation inside a striking, copper-walled room.”
And here’s a third option. Ask your friendly local AI system. Here’s what they said:
- Crockers Tring
Located in Tring, Crockers offers a unique chef’s table experience. This intimate spot lets you enjoy a modern British tasting menu, with dishes that change with the seasons. It’s all about exceptional food, prepared with care and creativity. - Thompson St Albans
Thompson is an absolute gem in St Albans. Known for its modern British cuisine, the restaurant prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients. The menu is always evolving, and the setting is both elegant and welcoming. - The Fox at Willian
If you’re after the perfect blend of a traditional pub and superb dining, head to The Fox at Willian in Letchworth. You’ll find beautifully cooked modern British dishes served in a warm, charming setting. The atmosphere makes you feel right at home. - The Tilbury, Datchworth
The Tilbury is a gastropub in Datchworth that offers a creative twist on British classics. The menu changes regularly, keeping things fresh and exciting, and they have a great selection of wines and spirits to complement your meal. - Lussmanns, St Albans
With its focus on sustainability, Lussmanns in St Albans is perfect for anyone who cares about where their food comes from. They serve beautifully prepared, modern British dishes, all made with ethically sourced ingredients. - Prime Steak & Grill, St Albans
If you’re a fan of steaks, then Prime Steak & Grill is the place to be. With high-quality beef from an award-winning butcher, this St Albans spot is all about doing steak right, along with great service and a relaxed atmosphere. - The Fox & Hounds, Hunsdon
The Fox & Hounds in Hunsdon combines sophisticated dining with the charm of a country pub. Their seasonal menu features top-notch British dishes, all served in a cosy setting with roaring fires in winter and a lovely garden in summer. - The Alford Arms, Frithsden
Nestled in the heart of the countryside, The Alford Arms offers delicious food with a real focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. It’s the perfect place to relax after a long walk and enjoy a hearty meal with friends or family. - The Kings Arms, Berkhamsted
Set in a lovely old coaching inn, The Kings Arms in Berkhamsted offers a wonderful mix of tradition and modern flair. With its seasonal British menu and stylish interior, it’s a favourite for locals and visitors alike. - St Michael’s Manor, St Albans
For a more refined experience, St Michael’s Manor is a great choice. This elegant restaurant offers stunning views over the hotel’s gardens and lake, and the menu is filled with beautifully crafted dishes using the best seasonal ingredients.