The old stalwart has had a revamp. It's turned what used to be a shabby place into something very smart.
For the location alone it was always a great place to drop in on, being right on the river in a pretty spot. But now they've really gone to town and food takes centre stage. As with so many 'pubs', it's more like a restaurant that also serves pints. Bit of a shame but it does mean there are a million more places to eat good food in relaxed surroundings now.
The menu covers off the old classics, hamburgers, fish and chips etc, but also stretches to more ambitious offerings. My pig cheek and crackling starter was excellent. The cheek was tender without being too stringy and the crackling did its name proud. The chicken liver parfait was smooth and tasted luxurious. The saganaki cheese had a lovely crisp coating and the dressing set it off beautifully. Real winners the starters.
The mains were a bit of a disappointment in comparison. The burger was 'really yum' according to the boy, but he also loves Nutella and Coco Pops so make of that what you will. My soft shell crab burger with avacado was decent but a little soggy as were the chips that came with it. And the stargazey pie also tasted and felt watery. The chicken kiev was too dry. None of it was bad, but all of it missed the mark and after such great starters that was a shame.
The dining room is light and airy and smart. It lacks the charm of a place that's been lived in but there are some nice touches, especially some of the photographs of the local area in years gone by. The view onto the river is as beautiful as ever.
The place was packed out on Saturday lunchtime but the service was organised and friendly enough.
They've obviously spent a lot doing this pub up. It's definitely money well spent but just now the experience falls a bit short of excellent. I wonder if cutting down the menu might help, it is extensive. But if you booked a table by the window and just ordered starters, it's a lovely place to while away an hour or two guiltily watching the rowers burning off the calories while you cram them in. read more