Stroll along Winchester’s Jewry Street and you will find the elegant Thai restaurant Bangkok Brasserie.

This modest-sized restaurant has quickly become my favourite local place to eat, thanks to the dedication and innovation of its ever-smiling owner, Miff. The homemade authentic Thai dishes are crafted with real passion and I am yet to order something that isn’t absolutely delicious. It’s little wonder the place has won a host of awards. What’s more, the charming and polite staff are always friendly, offering advice and interesting insights into the dishes.

Stand out dishes to try include the tasty massaman curry, made with peanuts, potatoes and tamarind. I also love the intriguingly named Colin Firth’s Thai mango chicken. This authentic curry has been renamed in tribute to the local actor, and 85p from each dish sold is donated to charity. The restaurant’s generosity and commitment to supporting the local community is just another thing that makes it so special. They often host charity dinners and events to raise money, and you can be sure that these sell out well in advance. As can be expected from any fantastic restaurant, the place is often fully booked for weeks, so make sure you plan your visit before you go!

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Brasserie.