Discover the best restaurants and cafes across the district
Winchester is lucky to be home to a fantastic selection of award-winning producers and eateries. The recent 2025 Great Taste Awards gave stars to over 20 local products, from speciality sourdough to smoked trout, while the Good Food Guide has also just announced Winchester’s very own Lucky Lychee at The Green Man as its best local restaurant for 2025! To celebrate, we’ve highlighted some of our top restaurants and cafes that continue to dazzle taste-conscious travellers with their fresh, local dishes. Whether you’re after fantastic flavours without the frills, or a feast of fine dining, discover top spots in the Winchester district you’ll want to write home about.
Lucky Lychee at The Green Man
53 Southgate St, Winchester, SO23 9EH
The Good Food Guide announced Winchester’s very own Lucky Lychee at The Green Man as it’s best local restaurant for 2025! This standout Malaysian restaurant is run by husband-and-wife duo James Harris and Nicole Yeoh and serves up delicious, seasonal dishes that won’t break the bank.
The Avenue at Lainston House
Woodman Lane, Sparsholt, SO21 2LT
Lainston House's flagship restaurant, The Avenue, has MasterChef: The Professional’s Tom Hamblet at the helm. They pride themselves on quality, seasonal produce, many of which is from their own kitchen garden. Book the chef's table experience for an extraordinary tasting menu prepared right before your eyes.
Image: Lucky Lychee at The Green Man
The Chestnut Horse
Easton, Winchester, SO21 1EG
The Chestnut Horse is a beloved fixture in the idyllic village of Easton. It has been awarded the Hall and Woodhouse Pub of the Year, a testament to Head Chef, Joe Hibberd’s thoughtful and locally sourced menu. Choose from a range of small plates, pub classics, sharing boards and signature dishes.
The Wykeham Arms
5 Kingsgate Street, Winchester SO23 9PE
This 18th-century pub, situated between Winchester Cathedral and Winchester College, is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. In addition to winning the prestigious Fuller's Pub of the Year award, The Wykeham Arms has also earned two AA rosettes for culinary excellence for 13 consecutive years.
Image: The Wykeham Arms
The Chesil Rectory
1 Chesil Street, Winchester SO23 0HU
The Chesil Rectory has received several awards and accolades, recognizing its culinary excellence, commitment to local sourcing, and support for the community. The tastefully converted medieval building serves as the perfect setting for classically British dining with a modern twist.
The Restaurant at Hambledon Wine Estate
East Street, Hambledon PO7 4RY
With views across the vineyard and nestled in the heart of the South Downs National Park, The Restaurant offers exceptional, seasonal cuisine in a welcoming and casual atmosphere. Head Chef, Nick Edgar, specialises in serving up a modern spin on British classics, perfectly paired with Hambledon's award-winning sparkling wines.
Image: The Restaurant at Hambledon Wine Estate
Pulpo Negro
28 Broad Street, Alresford SO24 9AQ
Pulpo Negro Founders Marie-Lou and Andres Alemany have stayed true to their vision to bring authentic Spanish cuisine to the heart of Hampshire. This popular tapas restaurant and bar has been a Bib Gourmand since 2014, a Michelin award given to eateries serving up exceptional flavour and value for money.
Cabinet Rooms
1-2 De Lunn Buildings, Jewry Street, Winchester SO23 8SA
Cabinet Rooms won the Grounds of Innovation Award from BRITA, which recognises the UK’s most creative and innovative independent coffee shops. However, they are most proud of being a welcoming and inclusive space for the community. Enjoy their homemade cakes and expertly crafted cocktails on your next visit!
Image: Pulpo Negro
