It's a pub. But the owners have mastered that rare ability to combine a proper pub for locals with a superior place to eat and socialise.
We've got a soft spot for the Horseshoe as we had our wedding party upstairs 26 years ago. It's had several owners and changes since then as we'll as being closed for several yer. But with very little fuss it is now a great place to go.
The landlord sets the tone by being understated but vey welcoming. He plays mixes of high quality pop and rock music, largely from the 60's and 70's which he does with some music loving locals in mind but it is delightful to hear Maggie May and Albatross rather than some mindless piped music.
But it's the food that counts and the menu is generally typical pub food but with a touch of class that makes the trip through the back lanes near Pontypool worth it. Homemade Lasagne is exactly that; it's easy to make lasagne an average dish but here it is gorgeous. Served with generous garlic bread and a tasteful salad it cannot be faulted. Creme brûlée with lavender shortcake was lovely (lavender shortcake is adventurous but not quite for me) all served with efficiency and charm.
Love the Horseshoe. It may be my favourite local restaurant. read more