The Jolly Cricketers, Seer Green

As a villager was delighted when the pub was refurbished and became quite a fan; good atmosphere, well kept beer, great bar snacks and food.
However, the last 6 or 7 encounters have not been positive. You can't eat at short notice, it's always fully booked, if you pop in for a drink you can't sit down because all the tables are reserved for diners. The last 2 times I was there for a drink, we all had to stand around empty reserved tables for 2 rounds before leaving. Feels like they are only interested in Diners.
My last encounter was for a Christmas do for 15. The food was still tasty but the portions were mean, the service very slow and the staff stressed. My side of the famous chips arrived when we had all finished eating; 9 chips for �2.50! Those of us from the village in the gathering, about 10, all agreed that the portions were much smaller than in the summer and we felt a bit ripped off. Not value for money or a good dining experience in such a chaotic atmosphere. We will not be back to eat again. I had heard as much from talk in the village but I like to se for myself, I was disappointed but not surprised.
The Cricketers is a victim of its own success (and I am pleased they are doing well) but with it the portions have been reduced and the prices hiked. If you find yourself without the kids unexpectedly and decide to pop to the village pub for eats and drinks and a short walk home; the usual benefits of a village local; forget it! If you want to drink and chat you have to do it standing!
I feel like I have lost my village pub and in its place is a pretentious, overpriced restaurant. Not really what a village needs. Shame!

24 Jan 2011 01:00