I have heard mixed reviews about this place, so a couple of months ago when searching for somewhere for lunch, I decided to give it a go.
I'll start off with the negatives so I can end on the positives....
Firstly, the welcome wasn't really there. We certainly weren't made to feel like a burden, but I don't think they've really got this part of the hospitality figured out yet! You sort of stand around for a minute or two until someone works out that you want to eat and then attends you.
Secondly, and the final negative, is that when seated we were waiting quite a long time for drinks when we re-ordered them. Don't get me wrong, we were not neglected, but a swifter drinks-to-table response would enhance the whole meal 'experience'.
Ok - with the negatives out of the way, let me tell you what's good about this place, and why I have been back several times over the last couple of months.
The food is great. It's quintessentially British cuisine and for the quality, reasonably priced. You don't wait too long for food either. Having said this, it's not flung at you so fast that you feel like they're trying to rush you through and out the door, either.
Drinks are average pub prices for the area, and they have one or two nice cask ales on too, for the real ale fans. The staff are helpful, if (at times) seemingly rushed off their feet and the menu, though simple, is well practised and executed by the kitchen staff.
The décor is contemporary, whilst retaining that classic 'pub' atmosphere, and the stone floored area harkens back to the bygone era of bushy bearded men enjoying a pint with their chums whilst the border collie snoozes by the fire.
As I've said, I have been back several times, and will return again. Although I've not quite had EVERYTHING on the menu, I'm confident that those that I've not tried will be as good as the ones that I have, and that means they'll be fantastic! read more