The Plough Inn, Cold Aston

Isn't that typical? At last a pub serves really good food, and the British are grudging! We'd far rather have Cajun Chicken and Thai Curry. Yes, the chef uses cream - why not? We're not eating this stuff every day. Went on Saturday and had perfectly cooked bream and my partner had the most delicious oysters I've tasted in years. There was no cream in the vegetables, but there was great variety and they were delicious. The beer is well kept too.
I know that some people (and I do sympathise) regret that many pubs have become quasi-restaurants, but if they do go this way, they might as well be good restaurants - and this one is. I've paid more money for much worse meals. I wish them luck.

18 Sep 2007 11:08

The Talbot, Knightwick

Can't say much more than the previous reviewers really. Would just like to reiterate their praise. This is a charming place, well run, comfortable and welcoming. Excellent real ale and very good food indeed. It's a relief to be able to choose from a menu without wondering where the meat came from. Superb.

9 Feb 2007 13:44

Bell Inn, Shurdington

This pub has real potential. It's spitting distance from Cheltenham and the garden overlooks a cricket pitch. The building itself is quite attractive and it's always full of dogs - a definite plus in my book. However, that potential has never really been fulfilled either under the last landlord and definitely under the new one. Cosy seating areas have been re-arranged - awkwardly. The space now seems uncomfortable and somewhat lacking in warmth. The food has always been poor and that certainly hasn't improved. Staff are friendly and the beer's not bad, but it doesn't make up for a certain lack of professionalism and imagination that a good pub needs. It's a shame. The dogs seem happy though.

9 Feb 2007 13:31