Elegance and fine dining is exactly what you can expect from Edwinns Brasserie, a delightful restaurant located in a part of Fareham where time appears to have stood still.

My partner and I went for dinner last Friday evening, and we were warmly welcomed at the door, our coats were taken and we were swiftly shown to our table.

The restaurant, which was once a private residence, has character oozing from every corner. The dining area is spread over a couple of rooms that have been decorated to create not only a traditional but also a classical look.

We were surprised to see such a mix of clientele, female friends having dinner together, family gatherings, young couples on dates, large parties of friends enjoying themselves and more mature people having a pleasant evening out.

This restaurant clearly appeals to all, and my partner and I were about to find out why.

Looking at the menu, it struck me that for fussy eaters this would probably not be the ideal place, but for us, we felt we were spoilt for choice.

Feeling in the mood for fish, I chose Thai fish cakes to start, followed by cajun salmon.

My partner opted for the Chinese spare ribs for his first course and chicken and broccoli tagliatelle for his main.

He drew the short straw and was the designated driver for the evening, so I was free to sample the wine. I ordered a glass of dry house white to accompany my meal.

The service couldn't be faulted, our waitress was extremely attentive and friendly.

She was also familiar with the dishes on the menu, which helped us to make our final choice. When the appetisers arrived, the presentation, as well as the smells and the quantity, were fantastic. The Chinese spare ribs were deliciously seasoned and smothered in a tasty sauce, and as for my Thai fish cakes, wow, what a real fish fest! Two cakes surrounded by a delicious tomato and parsley sauce - it was wonderful.

After a little breather, our main courses arrived, and the presentation and smells were just as lovely.

My partner's tagliatelle looked great and tasted wonderful. The only criticism, if we were being really picky, would be the amount. It was incredibly rich, and for someone like my partner, who has a big appetite, this dish really got the better of him.

As for my cajun salmon, it was absolutely superb. It came with fresh seasonal vegetables and looked too good to eat. The salmon was accompanied with crme fraiche and pickled cucumber.

The salmon fell to pieces in my mouth and the extra zest of cajun spices, which the salmon was coated in, gave the dish a unique but delicious kick.

Like my partner, though, this dish really filled me up and neither of us were able to try a dessert.

For just £47.50, we had a really enjoyable evening of exceptional food in good company and delightful surroundings.

Two pieces of advice - book beforehand, as Edwinns is very popular in the Fareham area, and ensure you leave room for a pudding!

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