The White Hart in Fyfield has cemented its status as one of the nation’s premier dining destinations, securing a prestigious 11th-place spot in The Good Food Guide’s Top 100 Pubs 2026. This national accolade represents a significant milestone for the historic Oxfordshire establishment, which continues to outperform culinary institutions across the UK.
For landlady Kay Chandler, who runs the pub alongside her husband and chef patron Mark Chandler, the ranking is still sinking in. “We are so delighted and excited,” she said following the ceremony at London’s Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. “Coming up against the top people in the industry on a national level and being placed 11th is such a huge achievement for our village pub. We have been so busy that sometimes you can forget that what you’re doing is working, so this is really amazing.”
She was quick to credit the achievement to the dedication of her staff, many of whom have been with the business for nearly two decades. “The White Hart is a massive part of their lives, so it’s great for us all to be recognised by the Good Food Guide for what we do.”
The 2026 guide shifted its focus this year toward establishments that transcend traditional pub boundaries. Judges specifically praised The White Hart for its seamless blend of seasonal menus—sourced largely from the pub’s own kitchen garden and local farms—and its welcoming atmosphere. Highlights from the seasonal offerings noted by the guide included a sophisticated fig, coppa, and goat’s cheese salad, followed by succulent sea bream paired with tomato and anchovy vinaigrette and saffron gnocchi. The guide further highlighted the pub’s “allure,” citing its extensive wine list, picturesque beer garden, and popular summer house pizza kitchen.
Oxfordshire was well-represented in this year’s list, with The Bull in Charlbury also achieving national recognition, taking the 63rd spot.
The White Hart’s latest success follows an exceptional year for the team. Alongside their national ranking, they have secured the “Best Gastropub” title at the 2026 Oxinabox Food Awards, earned the “Gastropub of the Year” for the South of England, maintained 2 AA rosettes for two decades running, and secured a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide.
With momentum at an all-time high, the future looks bright as the kitchen welcomes new head chef Henry Kremer-Ireson, formerly of Newbury’s acclaimed restaurant, Damson. As the pub continues to evolve, it remains a shining example of how a historic village venue can maintain traditional roots while delivering a world-class dining experience.
For those looking to sample the menu that has captivated the nation’s critics, bookings can be made via the pub’s website at https://www.whitehart-fyfield.com.
Disclaimer: This content is auto-generated for informational purposes only.
Source: Read Original News
