Vagelis

LOCATION
On Racecourse road in Ascot.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Famous breakfasts feature here. A word of warning: the tempting breakfast menu goes on for what seems like eternity, but don’t worry it hasn’t lost the attention of hungry morning diners yet. Try not to go overboard when you choose between banana French toast, raisin toast, French toast, toasted croissants, cinnamon toast, bagels or (drum roll please) the array of hot pancakes. And these aren’t just any ordinary pancakes; Vagelis offers Canadian pancakes with all sorts of opulent trappings (bacon, eggs and maple syrup). If you don’t have a sweet tooth, there’s a selection of gourmet omelettes with delectable (and ambitious) stuffings that have to be ordered to be believed! The coffee is also superb.

Nestled cosily in the well-to-do Racecourse Road dining precinct, Vagelis is relaxed, refined and brimming with its own charming character. Its eclectic feature bar and spacious timber terrace add to the unique charisma of the place. The lunch and dinner repertoires are alike in places, though great open-grill and toasted sandwiches play favourite at midday. Tuck into a breast chicken, asparagus and melted tasty cheese. Better still; opt for a prime rib-fillet steak sandwich with grilled onion, lettuce, cucumber, tomato and chunky chips. Pastas include the “Poseidon” which is tossed with garlic prawns, diced bacon and a creamy white wine and fresh dill sauce. The Italian shines though with a stellar traditional carbonara dotted with button mushrooms. Slow-roasted lamb shanks in a luscious tomato salsa accompanied by creamy potato mash and vegetables are also a tempting selection and a Vagelis signature.

Katharine Chapman