Allium - Fairford

If the food could be as inviting, we were in for a real treat.

James and Erica Graham's Fairford restaurant has seen a number of transformations over the years. It had an enforced make-over following the summer floods and was redecorated and re-named The Ostrich for the TV show which aired in September.

As Erica poured our drinks in the stylish bar, she said: "The walls have had so many coats of paint we think the place is getting smaller."

In truth the inside is elegant and spacious. The walls and carpets are light and the decor simple, but elegant.

We'd walked into a restaurant with a lot of class and were made to feel instantly at home.

The menu had a decidedly wintry feel. The owners try to use fresh local produce so the food on offer changes with the seasons.

For starter, I opted for the Jerusalem artichoke velout??, foie gras cromesquis, and my girlfriend Vicky had confit belly of pork, pumpkin and chestnut.

Each course was neatly presented and let the flavours speak for themselves.

Fresh seasonal vegetables complemented the rich flavours, intricate sauces and delicate seasonings.

For main I had goose breast, neck and leg, quince and red cabbage. Vicky opted for beef daube, mash and parsnips, with home smoked bacon.

On a cold, very foggy night the food couldn't have been more warming. It was like huddling round a fire when it's snowing outside.

In between the courses we were tempted with numerous mini-morsels including garlic cheese and chutney in an ice-cream like cone, apple cream and caramel jelly in a shot glass, duck pate and parsnip soup.

Vicky had caramel ice-cream for dessert. I succumbed to the honey and almond parfait with milk chocolate ice cream.

The perfect wine is recommended for every dessert at a cost of around £6 and you can choose from the biggest selection of British cheeses I've ever seen for a supplement of £2.