River Rat Hamble: A Quaint Dining Experience at the Heart of Hamble-le-Rice

Visited for the Halloween quiz night. I had an absolute blast, well worth coming. The place was full of friendly patrons, atmosphere was great. I enjoyed the quiz great mix of rounds and questions all at a good pace. I enjoyed a couple of things from the a la carte menu. Ribs were tender and tasty, chips were fat crispy and hot. I had a baked apple for desert which was delicious, autumnal and reminded me of a modern version of the baked apples my mum would make us for pudding on a Sunday growing up in the 80s/90s just wonderful! Staff were friendly and attentive did a fantastic job serving all the tables as everyone was there at the same time for the quiz. Yes it wasn't a cheap place, but harvester this it is not! Given the picturesque setting, quaint cosy building good food & drink and welcoming service I feel this place deserves a top spot. I would look to visit again just a shame they are not open more lunch times as I normally have little ones in tow.

First time here as were camping up the road. On arrival for the Jazz and Fizz at lunchtime Daniel was warm and welcoming, nothing was too much trouble. The beautiful secluded garden is a delight with thatched pods. We decided to dine here in the evening and sat in the upstairs restaurant. Again Daniel was very welcoming. Our waitress was Grace who was lovely, a very knowledgeable young lady. Both lunchtime and evening you couldn't fault the food, first class. Good wine selection, one small criticism a shame they do not have beer and lager on tap, bottles only. Can't recommend The River Rat highly enough. Will certainly be returning.

We recieved a lovely welcome when we arrived, couldn't fault the service at all. Everyone was super friendly and the garden is beautiful. The only disappointing part of our experience was the food, sadly. £13 for a shop bought part baked baguette (which didn't have much filling) and a few chips, we felt was a bit over priced. We were quite hungry after leaving.

Another amazing visit! Attended the Rose Wine Event , amazing food, great drinks and overall a lovely evening! The staff are so friendly and welcoming I highly recommend River Rat to anyone!

Went to the river rat for the first time yesterday, and it is a very charming pleasant place to just go for a drink. They do have a lager on tap as well as a cider for those of you that like to have a pint. Staff were lovely and very accommodating. I would definitely recommend for people to give it a try.

First time at the River Rat Hamble we ordered the burgers very good choice very tasty with nice chips. We sat in the lovely terraced garden. Service was excellent polite and friendly. Pay parking short walk. Will be back for a afternoon tea next can't wait.

I decided to treat my mum to afternoon tea with Prosecco as a mother’s day gift. Safe to say we were not disappointed! The variety in sandwich fillings and cakes was amazing and the scones were fresh and light! Definitely would recommend. We had a lovely time, special thanks to Laura and Sarah for being so attentive as always!

We recently hosted our wedding reception at the River Rat Bistro, and it was nothing short of incredible. From the very beginning, the staff went above and beyond to make sure every detail was just right. Their professionalism, warmth, and genuine care made us and our guests feel welcomed and well taken care of throughout the entire event. The service was seamless — attentive without being intrusive, and always delivered with a smile. Every request we had was met with enthusiasm and efficiency. The team worked so hard behind the scenes to make everything run smoothly, and it truly showed. The food was absolutely delicious — fresh, beautifully presented, and enjoyed by all. The ambiance of the venue, with its cozy charm m, provided the perfect backdrop for a night we’ll never forget. We can’t thank the River Rat Bistro enough for helping make our special day so memorable. If you're considering this venue for any event, especially a wedding reception, we wholeheartedly recommend it. You won’t be disappointed! Thank you again! Mr and Mrs Minard x