Yes, it’s true, I am still stuffing my face at every opportunity. Since moving to Storrington I haven’t visited many of my old haunts, but there are some great places around here, I may even forgive it for being -6degrees last night!

Two favourites so far are The Fountain in Ashurst and The Swan Inn in Fittleworth. Both are owned by the same family and have really interesting menus of traditional British food very well done. The burger (even though I’ve banned myself from eating a single burger in 2012 which means I’ve eaten one nearly every damned week) in The Fountain is awesome.

Also worth a trip is The White Horse in Storrington itself, excellent staff and a nice Sunday lunch. The only thing lacking is a bit of atmosphere which is common with many restaurants in small hotels, they just always feel a little too quiet. I had the garlic soup last time I visited which was so amazing – but I couldn’t go within 50ft of anyone for 4 days afterwards. Small price to pay if you ask me.

The Chardonnay Restaurant – yes, it really is called that. I am not sure if I should recommend this place as although the food was excellent it was like dining in an old peoples home. The menus were plastic coated and you were given both olives and wait for it… bombay mix as you waited for your table. Olives and Bombay mix are always a favourite combination of mine, like beef stew and ice cream or wood shavings on toast. The food was good though and huge portions. I’m really torn as to whether I recommend it or not!

The Pass at South Lodge Hotel received a well earned Michelin star last year, the restaurant takes special care over the provenance of the food it serves which is always a great touch. It was the first time I’d dined in restaurant inside a kitchen and it was great fun (although when you book you have to make sure you get a table near the action as there are a couple of tables with terrible views). You can even get closer to the action and go and see them prepare your meal itself. It must be *murder* for the staff though knowing they are under constant scrutiny from customers – no shouting or swearing allowed!

I couldn’t find a website for The White Lion in Thakeham but it’s tucked away down a pretty street and is a very traditional, busy local pub that serves great food. The menu is really extensive with lots of specials and they also do some *huge* kobe steak burgers. Not that I’ve had one of course, cof. The only slight issue is the mushroom farm nearby which is pretty intense! Lovely food and service though.

Vintage Rose cafe in Storrington does fantastic sandwiches and cakes if you’re after something lighter. A huge menu and the crayfish tail with rocket sandwiches are excellent