Best Local Restaurant

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Auction House

Lincolnshire, Louth - Modern British - Restaurant - £££

Elegant and approachable bistro for Louth’s locals

Overall Rating: Good

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Very Good

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Good

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Very Good

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Good

Chef Gareth Bartram made his name at Winteringham Fields but now he is flying solo at this pint-sized spot in Louth, which has ‘brought something refreshing and inspiring’ to the town. Both the bar and the dinky dining room on the first floor are well supported by the local populace, who appreciate the fact that this dynamic, welcoming space ‘evolves seamlessly throughout the day’ – from breakfast and light bites to cocktails and dinner. Snacks open the show (perhaps a Lincolnshire Poacher tartlet with pickled walnut ketchup), while ‘beautifully executed’ small plates bring temptation in the shape of, say, chorizo with crushed peas, house ricotta and preserved lemon. Among the larger plates, the catch of the day with sauce vierge or BBQ picanha steak with peppercorn sauce, Roscoff onions and horseradish cream show off the kitchen’s classic skills, while sherry trifle with Anabel strawberries, vanilla and elderflower brings proceedings to ...

Chef Gareth Bartram made his name at Winteringham Fields but now he is flying solo at this pint-sized spot in Louth, which has ‘brought something refreshing and inspiring’ to the town. Both the bar and the dinky dining room on the first floor are well supported by the local populace, who appreciate the fact that this dynamic, welcoming space ‘evolves seamlessly throughout the day’ – from breakfast and light bites to cocktails and dinner. Snacks open the show (perhaps a Lincolnshire Poacher tartlet with pickled walnut ketchup), while ‘beautifully executed’ small plates bring temptation in the shape of, say, chorizo with crushed peas, house ricotta and preserved lemon. Among the larger plates, the catch of the day with sauce vierge or BBQ picanha steak with peppercorn sauce, Roscoff onions and horseradish cream show off the kitchen’s classic skills, while sherry trifle with Anabel strawberries, vanilla and elderflower brings proceedings to a seasonal conclusion. The succinct, well-priced wine list is a real highlight, with a former Winteringham Fields sommelier sending offbeat bottles from their shop across the Humber in Hull.

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R Harvey

16 April 2026

Great menus, locally sourced produce, friendly and informed staff. Food quality is absolutely amazing and all in a quaint Lincolnshire market town with good parking and excellent bus routes!

H Majer

16 April 2026

An absolutely stunning restaurant with bags of character. The staff feel like old friends from the minute you walk in. We have been a number of times and they remembered my allergies. The food has been exceptional and th...
An absolutely stunning restaurant with bags of character. The staff feel like old friends from the minute you walk in. We have been a number of times and they remembered my allergies. The food has been exceptional and the choices within each course, provide ample variety to meet all tastes. At one visit there were too many choices that I would love to have tried, so they made up a box to take home. The chef takes seasonal ingredients sourced locally and creates dishes that amaze both visually an...
An absolutely stunning restaurant with bags of character. The staff feel like old friends from the minute you walk in. We have been a number of times and they remembered my allergies. The food has been exceptional and the choices within each course, provide ample variety to meet all tastes. At one visit there were too many choices that I would love to have tried, so they made up a box to take home. The chef takes seasonal ingredients sourced locally and creates dishes that amaze both visually and flavour. I can’t recommend enough any time of the day.
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T Osborn

15 April 2026

Consistently high quality, delicious food. Always beautifully presented. Staff are unfailingly polite, helpful and very knowledgable. Auction House is our ‘go to’ place for excellent food at a reasonable price.

G Lowe

25 March 2026

Dining at The Auction House Restaurant is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. The waiters and waitresses are exceptional, kno...
Dining at The Auction House Restaurant is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. The waiters and waitresses are exceptional, knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Each course is introduced with thoughtful detail, giving you a deeper appreciation of the ingredients, inspiration, and craftsmanship behind every dish. The food itself is a true work of art. Every plate arrives ...
Dining at The Auction House Restaurant is nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment you sit down, you’re treated to an experience that goes far beyond just a meal. The waiters and waitresses are exceptional, knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Each course is introduced with thoughtful detail, giving you a deeper appreciation of the ingredients, inspiration, and craftsmanship behind every dish. The food itself is a true work of art. Every plate arrives beautifully presented, with a level of precision and creativity that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. And it’s not just about looks, the flavors are just as impressive, perfectly balanced and executed to perfection. What truly stands out is the seamless combination of storytelling, service, and culinary excellence. The team makes you feel both welcomed and intrigued, guiding you through the menu in a way that enhances the entire dining experience. The Auction House Restaurant doesn’t just serve food, it creates memorable moments. An absolute must-visit for anyone who appreciates fine dining at its very best.
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C Saul

16 April 2025

It’s what our beautiful town needed. We’ve got some lovely little restaurants, but nothing to this standard. It’s a real gem of a place. From a quick yummy lunch, to a more sophisticated evening meal - it really does it all! The food is delicious and makes you try things you’ve never experienced before. I love the chef’s selection in particular and seem to always go for it. The service and team are so welcoming. They always go above and beyond to ensure the visit is exceptional.

VENUE DETAILS

1 Cornmarket
Louth
Lincolnshire
LN11 9PYGB

01507 311805

Make a reservation

OTHER INFORMATION

Separate bar, Dog friendly, Deposit required, No reservations

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