Loyal customers have bid a nostalgic farewell to award-winning French restaurant L'Ortolan after 23 years of service.

Located in the serene Berkshire countryside, the esteemed Michelin star establishment closed its doors on August 31.

The closure, driven by the cost of living crisis, Covid challenges and escalating running costs, culminated in an evening of elegance and sentimentality.

Owner Peter Newman and his devoted team bade an emotional goodbye to patrons who had, over the years, become more like family.

Customers nostalgically shared recollections and reactions to the news of the closure.

Nichola and Angela from Camberley, who have been customers for two years, said: "We were so sad when we heard it was closing.

"L’Ortolan is in such a beautiful location and the staff are always so attentive.

"I will remember it for the quality of food and relaxed and homey atmosphere.

"Most Michelin star restaurants are very formal and stuffy but here you are made to feel at home and comfortable no matter what.

Long-standing patrons Neil and Heather Darson responded similarly, albeit tinged with nostalgia after 23 years.

Neil, a teaching assistant from Wokingham, volunteered at the restaurant during its initial years.

He recalled: "I was able to experience so many incredible things during my time here. 18 years ago, we got tickets to go up to Birmingham for the Master Chef Food Fair and I was asked to work alongside Gordan Ramsey in his Grosvenor Square restaurant.

"We have been coming here as customers about three times a year and we were devastated to hear that it was closing. We'll really miss it.

Meanwhile, Caroline Hay and Chris Garrood from Barkham, also 20-year customers, shared: "We have some very happy memories from here.

"We will miss coming here for special occasions such as our Christmas Gala.

"There isn’t really anything else around here like L’Ortolan. The service is brilliant and the atmosphere is just so relaxed.

Chris recalled 'magical' memories from his 60th birthday. 

Beyond the gourmet cuisine, customers cherished the unique experiences L’Ortolan offered, such as the chef's table, which allowed them to scrutinize culinary preparation up close.

For many, the refined, yet homely atmosphere, and tailormade experiences like the tempting tasting menu and open demonstration days, will be sorely missed, as will the temporary takeaway meals during Covid.

As the lights dim on L’Ortolan for the last time, these shared stories of fine dining experiences illustrate the restaurant's enduring impact on the community.

A testament to hospitality and culinary innovation, L’Ortolan will be missed greatly.