Providing fresh, locally-sourced food, supplemented by a range of quality beers and wines was proprietor Dawn Winchester's mission when she took over the Halfway House in October 2005. Who better to help her realise this vision than experienced restaurateur/chef team Nigel and Heather, known locally as 'Food for Thought'. Together they bring a wealth of experience from the continent and London to Minchinhampton Common. The newly refurbished bar and restaurant is the first stage of an ambitious programme of expansion and affords a bright and convivial setting to enjoy an intimate meal, a family gathering or a larger function tailored to your own requirements.

The restaurant menu is changed regularly to reflect the season and according to the availability of fresh high-quality local produce. Fish is delivered daily from Cornwall and all meat is sourced from Gloucestershire. There is a modern European theme to the menu but what is most impressive is the interesting fusion of flavours that give the food its own unique identity. I particularly enjoyed a very reasonably priced tian of St Mawes crab with guacamole (£6.25), which was perfectly seasoned and freshly flavoured with lime. Alternatively the pheasant liver pâté with Calvados served with cranberry and rosemary bread (£5.00) was rich and rustic, the perfect starter on a blustery evening.

Our main courses were equally inspiring. The Gloucestershire sirloin steak with Balmoral sauce (£15.90) was well cooked and accompanied by a creamy combination of mushrooms, whisky and coarse grain mustard. The highlight of the meal however was the lamb stincotto finished with strawberry and balsamic jus. The lamb shank was meltingly tender and beautifully complemented by the unusual sauce. We also enjoyed a glass of wine from the exclusive wine list, specially selected for the Halfway House to set off the distinctive flavours. House wine by the glass is available, although bottles start from just £11.10 and with the house champagne priced at £25.00 there is every reason to celebrate. On the other hand, for lovers of real ales, there is a fine selection on offer and bar manager Paul was pleased to announce the inn's inclusion in the Good Beer Guide 2007.

For dessert, I chose a surprisingly light treacle tart flavoured with orange and lemon from an ample selection of home-made puddings priced from £5.25. I was also tempted to sample the Hennessey XO or one of the excellent malts after coffee to finish a lovely meal. Also worthy of note is the traditional Sunday lunch platter (from £10.50), which is so popular that it can become booked up well in advance particularly for special occasions, and an appealing bar menu priced from £4.50, available Tuesday to Saturday lunchtimes.