The Masons Arms, York

Always had a great reputation for food. Deservedly so. My wife is Coeliac, and the staff were very helpful giving her advice about what she could/couldn't eat.

Service can be a little slow, but I haven't personally had the "tap water" experience other people mention. Think I would go ballistic as well if that happened to me!

Menu is extensive, portions are enormous, and the food is generally fantastic! I can't think of better pub food in York. Queues form at the door on a Sunday before the pub opens for lunch. Think that says it all.

Inside, it is pretty much unchanged from 15 years ago when I first went in. Nice pub, good beer, amazing food.

11 Mar 2009 16:14

The Red Lion, York

Love this pub, and have a lot of memories here from my old student days (93-96).

Went in last week, and it hasn't changed at all. Same lovely character.

I have to echo Quinno's comment though regarding the level of service. My wife and I too experienced the sarcastic barman with his "barfly friend" and weren't impressed at all.

Also, the price was such that I had to actually double-check he'd totted the drinks up correctly. Too pricey by far.

Worth paying a quick visit, but until the prices get reasonable, I wouldn't spend an evening in here.

11 Mar 2009 15:42

The Spread Eagle, York

I used to drink in here while a student in York, back in 93-96. It was always a bit pricey, but you knew the ale was top-notch, with plenty of choice. Remember the landlord had a big Harley motorbike, but his name escapes me now...

Went in there again last week while on a reunion trip to York, and I was gobsmacked at how much it's gone downhill.

It seems to have become another "estate" pub now - baseball-cap-wearing chavs being the only other customers. My mate (Camra member, and real ale fan) was not impressed with the beer (neither was I).

Place looked dirty, paint peeling, filthy carpet, etc. No bottles were on offer, as the landlord was moving on at the end of the week, so was running the stock down.

We only stayed for one drink, but as we left one of our party, who had never been in the 'Spread before asked, "why did we just go in there?". It was a good question.

Good luck to whoever takes it on. It really is a crying shame.

11 Mar 2009 15:30