If you’re not local to the beautiful market town of Romsey then you could easily walk passed this lovely bespoke eatery without even noticing.

But those of us lucky enough to cross the coach-house shaped periphery will discover beauty, elegance and attentive customer service from a family-run operation which is as sleek as its freshly-pressed linen and as warm as its traditional oak-framed cob walls.

The time and effort that has gone into making the White Horse’s Brasserie a welcoming place does not go unnoticed. Full length French doors clad this beautiful little box – a serene and lovingly decorated hub that envelopes you.

And during the summer months the French doors open to a wide patio bringing the outside in, opening the box to the elements as the rich aromas from the kitchen flee into the atmosphere.

The wine menu offers a limited but exceptional variety of grape from across the globe with only the finest selected. Can’t decide which? Let the waiting staff choose for you – their knowledge and pallets know no bounds.

The New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is, as expected, crisp, clean and refreshing but accompanies the seared scallops with curried cauliflower puree and quail egg beautifully. This delicate dish is a clever concoction of the right balance of flavours and textures.

Equally, the spinach, ricotta and pine nut tortellini, which is rich and fragrant, mars just as well with the white as well as the red varieties.

And if you appreciate fine quality, rich red meat then their Wiltshire venison loin, served with boulangère potato, salt baked celeriac puree and leeks, will bring you as much pleasure as it did me.

The Brasserie’s grill menu boasts only the best produce including beef, lamb and whole seabass. The marbled Aberdeen Angus 8oz fillet is as succulent as one would expect, served with triple-cooked chips, and works wonderfully with garlic chilli butter and peppercorn sauce.

If you can manage to stomach a dessert then look no further than the milk chocolate mousse torte, with dark chocolate jelly, white chocolate ice cream and raspberries. It is the testament of head chef Nick O'hallaran’s talent and respect for the harmony of flavours.

(Though I’d advise sharing one such is the richness of this treat!) Pair with Dow’s ruby port, drier than it is sweet, to round off the evening.

Everything on the menu is sourced locally wherever possible and the quality produced – both in the production and the cooking – can be tasted with every bite.

And if the à la carte menu looks a little dear why not try the set menu? A three-course meal for just £18.50 is real value for money.

This is luxury eating at its best – true indulgence for whoever is fortunate enough to know of this boutique retreat’s existence.

Market Place, Romsey, Hampshire. SO51 8ZJ.

Tel: 01794 512431