Sopwell House, Cottonmill Ln, St Albans AL1 2HQ
How much will it set you back? “Around £80 per person for a mix of Japanese fusion sharers, depending on whether you want to go all out with the Wagyu beef or not. Plus a little more if you’re looking to get stuck into the cocktails.”
What’s so great about it? “Though I could wax lyrical about Omboo for as long as any listener would allow, in essence, it’s deserved place on our list of the most romantic restaurant comes down to two key things: the vibe and the food.
“A restaurant within a hotel somehow always gives the illusion of existing within a different time zone, a slower, calmer pace. No one is in a rush and cortisol levels at an all time low for city-dwellers. So, the vibe is one of real intimacy and peace, tucked away in the countryside, just the two of you (plus the other diners…).
“And the menu is entirely designed for sharing, with everything coming as and when it’s ready, which again removes the sense of time or any hurriedness, leaving you free to focus on each other. Tuck into a mix of tasty little bites, salads, fish dishes, sashimi and sushi rolls, or leave things in the capable hands of Executive Chef, Derrick Chen comes with 20 years’ experience from the likes of Michelin-starred Hakkasan and The Four Seasons Hotel in London and order the sushi platter, which comes complete with Seared Japanese A5 grade Wagyu rolls.”
“And there’s lots for vegetarians and vegans too, the Shitake truffle spring rolls (earthy and rich) and the vegetable tempura (light and crisp) being the standouts here.”
Why is it the perfect romantic restaurant? “Driving through the countryside, into the little lit-up world of Sopwell House, with its vine-clad exterior, wisened trees and glowing fireplace sets the magical tone. Once into the restaurant, the sharing concept, the low lights and the rich floral wallpaper framed by heavy curtains. You can ramp up the romance but adding a room booking to your restaurant reservation so that you can slip straight upstairs once the meal has finished.”
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