We are captivated by the small community of Bray - quite a nonchalant yet quaint village just minutes away from junction 8 of the M4 - but hiding some superb restaurants. The Hinds Head has been a favourite for better than average gastro pub fare. So it was my birthday that provided the excuse to try the italian Caldesi in Campagna. Katie and Giancarlo offered a very personal invitation on the website and it was mirrored in the a la carte menu. The italian staff represented an extended virtual family and their attitude and service was by far the best I have experienced in England. We were also lucky to participate in the Frescobaldi Fortnight, during which Paola Rocchi had left her restaurant in Montalcino to cook in Bray. Choosing what to eat was a challenge - so we were both influenced to try Paola's Tuscan cooking. I indulged in an eggplant and mozarella starter followed by a 5 seafood stew with superbly buttered mashed potato. Markus began with pasta, followed by braised beef and black kale. We were recommended matching wines with each course and finished with an expresso which was accompanied by slivers of home baked almond bread, marshmallow and a chocolate mint slice.
It was a superb culinary experience, and we felt like visitors rather than customers, especially when Giancarlo came round to say goodnight...what a treat!
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