Grace Dent, renowned food columnist for The Guardian and celebrated MasterChef judge, has shared her enthusiasm for a hidden culinary treasure nestled in Gloucestershire. Following a grueling year of intense filming and tastings on MasterChef, Dent found solace in discovering restaurants brimming with charm, character, and exceptional cuisine.
Despite the relentless pace of judging the nation’s top home cooks, Dent emphasized how crucial it was to escape the confines of a windowless studio and immerse herself in venues that offer both warmth and genuine hospitality. During a memorable visit to Stroud, she was “bowled over” by Juliet—a restaurant that has become a cherished hub for the local bohemian community, artists, and colourful locals who celebrate life’s special moments there.
The past year saw Dent traverse the UK’s culinary landscape, including stops in vibrant cities like Bristol and Manchester. In Bristol’s Wapping Wharf, she sampled delights at Ragù and Lapin, two eateries operating out of converted shipping containers that bring innovation and local flavour to the dining scene. Dent fondly described Lapin as “peculiar, meta, slightly earnest, and definitely delicious,” noting its authentic French influence, complete with seasonal dishes featuring rabbit sourced from local hunters and an 80s French pop soundtrack that evokes the charm of a French school exchange.
READ MORE: Inside the ‘Dopamine Diet’ That Chef Tom Kerridge Credits for His 11-Stone Weight Loss
READ MORE: Tim Spector Advocates Diet Changes to Reverse High Blood Pressure Beyond Medication
Manchester’s Winsome, led by chef Shaun Moffat, also impressed Dent with its modern British fare. She praised Moffat’s offerings as a blend of inspirations — “a scoop of Fergus Henderson, a nod to Mark Hix, a dash of London’s Quality Chop House, and a teeny touch of Toby Carvery,” reflecting a sophisticated yet familiar dining experience.
Concluding her nationwide culinary journey, Grace Dent affirmed that the UK’s restaurant scene is “roaring” with energy and creativity. Looking forward, she confidently predicts that 2026 will bring even more exciting gastronomic experiences.
Adding further acclaim to Juliet in Stroud, noted Times critic Giles Coren awarded the restaurant a rare perfect score of 10/10 for cooking, location, and service—the only such accolade he handed out all year—cementing its status as a must-visit destination.