I cannot think of a better restaurant in Wiltshire to spend an evening than Swindon’s Weighbridge Brewhouse.

I admit I haven’t been everywhere, but having been lucky enough to have dined at some of the most popular and commended restaurants in the area, I can say, without doubt, I’ve not visited anywhere that can satisfy in so many areas as this wonderful place.

From the extensive menu and superior, mouth-watering quality of every dish to the charming staff, going out of their way to please, the Weighbridge is the little black dress of the food world; perfect for both important occasions or catching up with friends.

There are two dining areas – one on a balcony for intimate and quiet dining; the other a vast space on the ground floor, with booths and high ceilings where courting couples and large groups of friends alike dine.

Portion sizes are large, so the fact there are nibbles as opposed to a starter menu shouldn’t distract. And it’s important to save room for the fantastic array of desserts.

We ordered homemade focaccia bread for two, with melted cheese, onion and tomato, served with balsamic vinegar and olive oil to dip, and a side order of mixed olives (£7).

It arrived promptly and everything tasted incredibly fresh and light.

My partner had the Chinook ale described as having hints of grapefruit with a lingering bitterness, produced in the restaurant’s micro-brewery (£3.80).

I chose half-roasted crispy duck with redcurrant jelly and cherry wine, finished with strawberries (£25), which was incredible. I kept finding more meat each time I thought I had finished. After indecision between twice-baked pork belly, wild boar and tuna, my partner opted for beef and black pudding stack with shitake mushrooms in a marsala wine and cream sauce (£23).

For pudding, we ordered a chocolate brownie sundae with Bailey’s ice cream and the and winterberry crumble (both £7); though the champagne sorbet and the white chocolate and raspberry brulee had also taken my fancy.

We were served by several people, each charismatic and charming. Manager Anthony Windle took our order and told us about the history of his business and his design ideas.

A wonderful evening, with three courses, two pints and two soft drinks coming to £79.40.

* Live music, typically jazz, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings.
* Six ales available to take away.
* Children are welcome and a Little Adults menu is available for under-12s.
* Parking on site.