There are just two pubs In the village of Brill (about 60 miles northwest of London). The Pointer is one of them, but there is more than meets the eye with this pub. Sure, they have 4 varieties of "real" ale (what the English call craft beer) on cask. I enjoyed a pint of each during the night of my visit; the Higson Stout and Vale V.P.A were both outstanding. As is the case with most village pubs, this is a locals place. They know when you aren't from the area, but are all very friendly. So are the dogs, who are welcome to come into the pub.
But what sets the Pointer apart from most pubs is the food. You won't find the typical pub grub like Shepherd's pie or meat pasties. Rather, the elevated menu features dishes like Duck, Smoked Sausage & White Bean Terrine with Toast & Spiced Marrow Chutney or Monkfish with Saute Potatoes, Smoked Bacon & Mustard Cream.
Ah, but the surprises continue. The Pointer also features an organic farm, where English Longhorn and rare heirloom pigs are raised. The majority of meat served is sourced from just down the street. This takes local to a whole new level. Across from the pub is the butchers where the bounty from the farm is prepared. You can buy their meat, charcuterie and freshly baked bread on Wednesday and Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings.
This was a truly unique experience and I loved every bit of it. read more