DIGEST

Even in England, it's possible to eat well al fresco

A row of white-walled cottages perched on the edge of the Thames houses the rustic yet elegant Leatherne Bottel, Goring-on-Thames, Berkshire (01491 872667). The restaurant serves highly professional fare with fresh produce from the kitchen garden. Try char-grilled tuna Nicoise; hot-water pastry tart with tarragon and parmesan, or simply enjoy a glass of champagne down by the river among the flower beds.Open all week lunch 12.15-2pm (2.30 Sat and Sun), Dinner 7.15-9pm (9.30 Sat, 8.30 Sun). Access, Amex, Visa. About pounds 30 per head without wine.

The Belvedere, Holland Park, W8 (0171-602 1238), originally the summer ballroom of Holland House, has perhaps the most delightful outdoor terrace in London. Plenty of choice from a menu based around the traditional - salmon fishcakes; onion tart; poached salmon; calves liver; warm chocolate soup with nut brownies. Open lunch 12-3pm; dinner 7-11pm (6-12 summer) Mon-Sat. All major credit cards. Starter plus main course, pounds 12-pounds 21.

Not only is the Sugar Club, 33a All Saints Road, London W11 (0171-221 3844), a great little restaurant, it also has a pretty garden for summer eating. Seriously talented New Zealand chef Peter Gordon has developed a strong personal style - roast lamb chump on shitake mushrooms and minted lentils; sauteed lambs brains with pickled onions: walnut and cinnamon cake. Open dinner 6.30-11pm daily, lunch 12-3pm, Sat and Sun. Cash and cheques only. Three courses about pounds 25-30 a head without wine.