Monkey Island Brasserie & Bar

You're crossing over to Monkey Island itself here—yes, a real island in the Thames just off Bray. The setting alone is worth the drive from Maidenhead town centre, but the food takes it seriously too. This isn't some gimmicky spot trading on location alone. The brasserie does straightforward, well-executed dishes in a dining room that feels properly grown-up, with those river views working hard to earn their place on your Instagram (even if you're not the type to post). It's the kind of place you actually want to linger over lunch or book for something occasion-worthy, not just a snap and dash.