It's difficult to know whether a French influenced modern British award winning restaurant will, or indeed, can cater for strict vegetarians, so when I was invited to a birthday supper there I phoned to find out. I was told that not only could they cater for me but it would be an education: "I didn't know about vegetarian cheese". What a splendid attitude. On impulse I then booked accommodation - this place has rooms and what a blessing that is. No driving home late and the driver having to hold back on the alcohol.

No 36 is a very smart affair, but not stuffily so. Our party of seven was first served drinks in the bar. My bottle of alcohol-free that I brought with me was opened without a murmur and I was pleased to see that we veggies had a choice of two starters and two main meals. Only one of these had cheese and two were vegan. Wow!

Tables are arranged sensibly with plenty of room and the chairs are very comfortable. It was a bitterly cold night but the restaurant was very cosy. My starter was exciting and different and as good as any one would find in a top vegetarian establishment. My main course was similarly delicious; I mopped up the mushroom juices with the freshly baked bread that had been placed on the table earlier. We had an appetiser to start - a tiny artichoke soup portion which was exquisite. After our main we had a palate cleansing coconut sorbet and then for dessert I chose the lime parfait. This was really superb. One of the after dinner options was cheese board and the proprietor explained which are veggie. I know a bit about cheese and was impressed with the selection. Home made chocolates and fudge served with coffee are also veggie. Service was unobtrusive but efficient and everyone agreed that the food was first class.

After our lovely evening, we then had to literally walk over the road to our cottage. Cinnamon Cottage is a sweet 15C cottage that has been carefully restored to provide luxury accommodation for even the most discerning guest. How lovely to be woken up to "Good morning!" from downstairs and to have your breakfast ready for you on a tray. The smell of coffee and croissants soon had us downstairs - both steaming hot. There was toast and brioche too with superb yoghurt, quality preserves, breakfast cereals, fresh strawberries, fresh grapefruit and glasses of orange juice.

I was disappointed to have to leave that morning as I had to get back, but there is a quay to explore and the pub where we all met seemed friendly and welcoming. Ah well, all this will wait for another time as I know I would like to go back. And you cannot have a better recommendation than that. Parking is difficult but if you are staying over, a space will be reserved for you.

Reviewer Veggie Places