The Royal Oak, New Malden

IMHO the Royal Oak as improved due to the smoking ban and management now seemingly sorted - after Sean left they seemed to change every week. The food has also recently improved (we had some dire scampi around July/August).

This is a standard pub good for a local beer but I wouldnt go out of my way for it.

That being said, if they could start getting a bit of variety on the ales I'd go more often - even Bombardier/Spitfire would be a change from the Bass

30 Dec 2007 18:06

The Lord Poulett Arms, Hinton St George

Went there back in July but had a fantastic meal (scallops were fantastic) at a price that was more than worth it. Can't comment on the beers as I had to drive - if I am ever staying in the area I'd be sure to try them!

30 Dec 2007 18:00

The Duck On The Pond, South Newington

Went there yesterday as visiting relatives nearby. I come from London so am used to high prices but this was a shock - to pay �12 for vegetable fajitas is a joke. With egg-cup sized portions of dips, small size tortillas, and a plate of fried peppers and onions this would have cost �2.50 tops. The other meals were obviously re-heats and not freshly cooked. �75 for 4 people for a one-course lunch and one round of drinks is appalling.

The building is nice and quaint but is on a main road so our window seat had HGVs going past every minute. The "pond" is something you would see in a back garden. Oh and they have the noisiest sweet trolley you could ever hope to have to shout over the din.

I can only imagine that my father has not yet tried many places in the area if he thinks this is worth taking people to.

One good point - the Old Speckled Hen was on form.

30 Dec 2007 17:48