The Waterside Inn is French classicism by the Thames, and its grace lies in never pretending to be anything else. Founded by the Roux family, the restaurant has built its reputation on polished sauces, beautiful fish and meat, impeccable pastry and a room that understands leisurely luxury. The river setting softens the formality, making the meal feel less like a monument than a tradition still being hosted with care. It is old-school in the most persuasive sense: generous, exact and deeply comfortable.