We made an overnight stop at the Frenchgate and were very impressed. The room was pleasant and well appointed but it was the restaurant and David who made this stay so memorable and identified the Frenchgate for a further visit. Prior to dinner, we were settled into the lounge where David plied us with some aperitifs and introduced us both to some truly English Gins and an unusual marmalde vodka (I now have a bottle of each at home...) although not too much to spoil our appetite for dinner. Wow, very, very nice experience which, to be honest, took us a little by surprise. We also opted for the 'Wine Flight' which allowed for a different wine to complement each course each served by David who also provided an informative brief as to why he had selected each wine.....we were not disappointed, a wonderful meal, each plate appointed with the precision of a Michelin starred establishment and wonderful flavours! Exquisite meal, lovely atmosphere and highly recommended!!
Lin
I visited Frenchgate just before Christmas to celebrate a friend's birthday. We were greeted like the most welcome family members (we're not!) and were delighted with everything about the evening. David was a wonderful host, guiding and teaching us about the food and wine as we tasted each fabulous course. I really believe there is not a better place to eat in the area. Not large portions, but soooooo special, Taste presentation, innovation, all fab! Try the wine flight. David selects a different wine for each course to compliment your food. A real treat. We are already saving up for a return visit.
Batter
went to this hotel for a meal on a Saturday evening- that's 2 couples mid 50s and quite discerning in our choice of food and wines. Parking was an issue as the street outside was totally full and managed to take the last place in the car park- minor grumble. We were made most welcome by David who could not do more to explain the menus/food etc and clearly is well knowledged in these matters. Some have said they find that overbearing but we did not find that to be the case- he was a good front man and clearly had all under tight control. The reception room is very comfortable but the strange modern paintings seemed out of keeping with the rest of the house/decor, Some are for sale- family connection perhaps? The food was stunning, not great portions but the quality, taste and presentation cannot be faulted. probably one the best we have had in the Richmond area. If you are looking for rustic portions this is not the place for you. The Wine Flight which allows differing wines with each course proved of use for 2 of our party and good value. The dining room can only cater for about 14 persons but it is well presented and of the highest standard in cleanliness and comfort. Coffee in the lounge should have finished the meal on a high but I was surprised that this was served in plain white cups, without petit fours - the lasting impression of a meal can ofter be whats is recalled. At £3.50 a cup I found that most unusual. Decent china and a cafetiere with a selection of goodies would have sealed the meal. However a great experience and for an occasion/celebratory meal we shall return. Thanks to the Frenchgate and keep it up.
Marilyn
This hotel was a brilliant find! Our room (Napoli suite)was wonderful, beautifully equipped with great lighting features and a superb bed! David is a fantastic host whose wine knowledge made our meals memorable. Food fantastic and so beautifully presented. The hotel is quiet and efficient, like staying in a country house. I wish we didn't live so far away or we would be there more often.
Johnny Walker
Very good food , however the owner was very rude and made us feel like he was above us. In addition the rooms were to modernised and did not suite the history of the building. Maybe something with a bit of tact for the historic value of the building! Service and attention to detail for the chefs menu was excellent! Although we were looking forward to the cheese board which did not appear on the menu!?
Stacy
Upon arriving at the Frenchgate Restaurant I was greeted by David whom made me feel welcome and at home from the moment i had stepped in the front door. The wine list was excellent and even better that David had chosen a wine to accompany each course. The food was amazing and the whole evening was very enjoyable. This is a restaurant that i will be visiting again.
The Mortlocks
We had two visits to the Frenchgate in January 2009 and were thoroughly spoilt. Excellent wine list, delicious food ,superb room and our host David and his staff were brilliant and knowledgeable. On both trips we took one of our children who found the food "devine"... Would definitely return as the town of Richmond is a really interesting place to visit with or without children.
Jb
Had a superb lunch at the Frenchgate. They have introduced a credit crunch busting 2 course menu for £10.95. A bottle of Peroni wet my whistle (£2.80) and I began with the Smoked Haddock, Leek & Parmesan Tartlet with soft poached free range egg, hot and tasty, the egg yolk perfectly runny, crisp pastry perhaps slightly too hard. Next Confit Leg of Duck With braised red cabbage, spring onion mash & vanilla poached plums. A delicious combination, sweetness of the cabbage and tang of the spring onion in the mash lingering into subtle vanilla with the acid of the plums, the duck not fatty at all. I added a dessert of orange & cardomom creme brulee, soft and creamy with an excellently thin & crisp brulee top (£2.95). A jug of iced water was free. Coffee, tea and wines available at extra cost. For a total of £16.70 you should be beating down the doors for this top quality lunch bargain!
Jan-york
Warm friendly surroundings, the food was exquisite, and so reasonable!! David was helpful, knowledgeable and hit the right balance between professionalism and familiarity, no mean feat!Have recommended to friends and would have no hesitation in encouraging anyone to try. A marvellous experience
Tracker
This is the second time we have dined at the Frenchgate and once again, it was absolutely wonderful! David is an extremely attentive and knowledgeable host who obviously wants his guests to thoroughly enjoy the dining experience, right from the moment you enter the door. We had the BEST gin and tonics made by the man himself! The food was divine and the wine (recommended by David) was perfect. All in all, one of the best dining experiences we've had. Can't wait to come again!
