Le Bistrot Pierre - Stratford-upon-Avon

There are few places more English than Stratford-upon-Avon, with its genteel, cultural air and wealth of theatrical tributes to a certain legendary playwright. Equally, there's no mistaking the quintessential French charm of Le Bistrot Pierre's chic decor, vintage Parisian posters and Gothic chandeliers. When the two come together beside the banks of the Avon, the result is a magnificent fusion of Anglo sophistication and Franco glamour. The restaurant's interior is all sparkling wine glasses, elegant tables and twinkling lights, with cheerful, attentive waiting staff and an excellent wine list with over 30 French wines available by the glass. It's also full of diners who come in their droves to sample the cuisine, spilling outside in summer months onto the pretty terrace overlooking the river.

That the food is superb is unsurprising given these surroundings. We started with the full-flavoured olive tapenade, deliciously grown-up against nutty artisan bread. We went on to share a platter of treats which included plump honey-glazed chorizo, huge black and green olives and a light salmon confit I could have eaten all day. There was a meaty pork paté that was especially delectable with accompanying sunblushed tomatoes, and crusty French bread to dip into golden hummus. We didn't think things could possibly get better, until the main course was served. I'd gone for the chef's special - duck breast with dark cherries in a decadent Port sauce. The meat was succulent and rich without being fatty; the cherries an inspired addition. On the side were creamy Dauphinoise potatoes and red cabbage with bite, together with firm broccoli and tasty French beans. My companion chose the porc rôti; the pan-fried meat was juicy and tender, and complemented beautifully by a fat slice of smoked garlic sausage and tart, caramelised apples. There is also a great-value pre-theatre menu available for just £13.90 (two courses).

It was a wonder we had room for dessert, but I'd seen several fellow diners devouring a dark hunk of something scrummy-looking and wanted to try it for myself. It turned out to be a dense and gooey chocolate torte, which tasted like heaven and came with velvety-smooth vanilla ice cream. My partner plumped for a platter of miniatures including a raspberry sorbet, zesty citron flan and a yummy tarte tatin. There's a sister Le Bistrot Pierre located in the heart of Leamington Spa. Magnifique.