If you’re looking for an unexpected dining experience in Surrey, you might not immediately think of a further-education college. But tucked away on the Weybridge campus of Brooklands College, Brooks Restaurant has quietly been winning over locals with its warm atmosphere, creative menus, and a student team who take enormous pride in what they serve.

This isn’t just a college canteen — it’s a fully functioning, beautifully presented training restaurant, run by hospitality and catering students under expert guidance. And honestly? It’s one of the area’s most charming hidden gems.

Here are five things we genuinely loved about our dining experience at Brooks Restaurant.

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1. The Food Is Far Better Than You’d Expect From a ‘Training’ Restaurant

Let’s get this out of the way: the food is seriously impressive.
The students prepare a multi-course menu, often a tasting-style experience, showcasing classical techniques, modern presentation, and seasonal ingredients.

Expect dishes like pan-fried salmon, beautifully cooked meats, creative vegetarian mains, and elegant desserts that look like something from a boutique hotel restaurant. Everything is plated with real care and ambition.

Check menus and seasonal offerings here:
👉 Brooks Restaurant – Menu & Booking

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2. The Festive Season Is a Standout Experience

If you visit in late November or December, you’re in for a treat. Brooks offers a Christmas menu that diners consistently rave about — think:

• A delicious starter buffet table with pâtés, smoked salmon and seasonal salads
• A classic carvery featuring roast turkey, stuffing, and all the trimmings
• Alternative mains like pork loin or salmon
• A dessert table that would make any sweet-lover happy
• Coffee and mini mince pies to finish

It’s festive, generous, and beautifully prepared — and the ambience feels warm, celebratory, and rather special. It books quickly, so definitely reserve ahead.

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3. The Value for Money Is Exceptional

Dining here feels similar to enjoying a multi-course meal at a well-rated restaurant…
but at a fraction of the cost.

Because the restaurant is part of the students’ training, prices are kept intentionally accessible. You get the benefit of:

• Thoughtfully prepared dishes
• A sophisticated menu
• A calm, well-set dining room

…without London or Surrey high-end price tags.

It’s one of the best-value fine-dining-style evenings you’ll find anywhere locally.

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4. You’re Supporting the Next Generation of Chefs and Hospitality Professionals

One of the most rewarding parts of dining at Brooks is knowing your evening out is directly contributing to students’ professional development.

The front-of-house team might be a little nervous; the plating may occasionally reflect a learning environment — but that’s all part of the experience. Their enthusiasm is infectious, and watching students grow in confidence throughout the service is genuinely lovely.

Every booking helps them build real-world skills, and guests often comment on how polite, eager and grateful the students are.

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5. The Atmosphere Is Warm, Welcoming and Surprisingly Refined

Brooks Restaurant looks and feels like a proper dining venue. White tablecloths, calm lighting, a thoughtful layout — far from the academic setting you might expect.

It’s intimate enough for a quiet dinner yet friendly enough for group celebrations. And on themed evenings or seasonal menus, there’s a genuine sense of occasion.

Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or colleagues, the restaurant offers a relaxed but polished environment that makes the whole evening feel special.

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Brooks Restaurant at Brooklands College is more than just a training space — it’s a local dining secret, delivering quality, creativity, and heart. If you live near Weybridge or simply love discovering unique places to eat, it’s well worth adding to your list.

Bookings are essential (especially Wednesdays and in December):
👉 Reserve a Table at Brooks Restaurant