Windsor Castle, a royal residence in the heart of Windsor, is one of England’s most iconic landmarks. With over 900 years of history, this stunning castle boasts beautiful architecture and has been a royal home since the time of William the Conqueror. Visitors flock here to see the State Apartments, Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House, and St. George’s Chapel, where Prince Harry and Meghan Markle got married.
Today, it remains a working palace and a popular tourist destination. After exploring the castle, you might want to unwind and grab a bite to eat. Here are the top five restaurants near Windsor Castle that you must try.
1. The Boatman
The Boatman is a charming gastropub with breathtaking river views. Established in 1829, it has a nautical theme with helms and nautical clocks adorning its walls. You can enjoy the serene riverside views over Eton while indulging in delicious food.
The menu features beer-battered fish and chips, sea bass, and yellowfin seared tuna. If you're not a fan of fish, don’t worry – they have burgers, pasta, and other pub classics.
Their riverside terrace is perfect for relaxing after a long day of sightseeing. Inside, the elegant dining tables and warm incandescent lights create a cozy atmosphere. Try the Italian sharing plate with cured meats, cheeses, sun-blushed tomatoes, and olives.
For a truly British experience, order the Parma ham-wrapped pork fillet with apple mash potato. Pair your meal with a pint from their in-house brewery for the perfect finish.
2. Mango Lounge
Mango Lounge, located on Datchet Road, offers an exotic escape with its Indian-Thai fusion cuisine. The moody, wallpaper-lined interior sets the stage for a culinary journey filled with flavors like masala, turmeric, nutmeg, and cardamom. Despite its high-end feel, the service remains relaxed and friendly.
For a dish that packs a punch, go for the Lal Maas curry, a fiery lamb curry rooted in Western Indian tradition. The Lamb Korma Nilgiri is another popular choice, featuring lamb cubes marinated in yogurt, mint, and coriander, cooked in a light onion and coconut sauce with chilies and mustard seeds. This spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
3. The Real Greek
The Real Greek on River Street is a delightful spot for authentic Greek cuisine. This two-level restaurant is beautifully decorated with dark wood and naturally lit, creating a warm and welcoming environment. Step through the brightly painted blue and white entrance to start your Greek culinary adventure.
Begin with a few meze appetizers like Chickpea Filo Triangles, Falafel, and Moussaka. For the main course, try the lamb meatballs, grilled aubergine with garlic tomato sauce, or chicken skewers. The £20 Athenian Meze Menu is a great way to sample several Greek delicacies. It’s a wonderful place to share a meal with friends or family.
4. Bluegrass BBQ
Bluegrass BBQ is a little slice of the American South in the heart of Windsor. Located on the corner of Castle Hill and Market Street, this barbecue joint offers a casual and welcoming dining experience. The interior features intimate booths and window-side seating, making it perfect for a laid-back meal.
The Smokin’ Chipotle Burger and other fantastic sandwiches are great, but the real highlight is “The Smoker” section of the menu. Here, you’ll find locally sourced meats slow-cooked over hickory in iron smokers from Oklahoma.
The brisket and pork belly combo is a must-try. And don’t forget to sample their variety of BBQ sauces, from Smokin’ Cherry to Tangy Mustard. Visit on a Monday for a flat-iron steak and homemade steak fries for only £10!
5. Zizzi
Zizzi is a fantastic spot for pizza lovers near Windsor Castle. This brick-lined bistro offers a cozy ambiance with its stunning hand-drawn mural. It’s ideal for both a quick lunch and a romantic dinner.
Start with the garlic bread with bleu cheese, a baked-to-perfection treat that’s simply irresistible. The calamari is also a great choice, boasting a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. For the main course, try the Rustica Primavera pizza, topped with goat’s cheese, artichokes, spinach, fire-roasted peppers, olives, and mozzarella. If you’re in the mood for something more substantial, the chicken thigh Calabrese is an excellent option.
Conclusion
Whether you’re craving traditional British fare, exotic Indian-Thai flavors, authentic Greek dishes, American BBQ, or a delicious pizza, the restaurants near Windsor Castle have something to offer. Each spot provides a unique dining experience, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the historic castle. So, the next time you visit Windsor Castle, make sure to check out these top five restaurants for a memorable meal.