The Chequers Inn, Hanham Mills

Thought that this might be a nice spot on the river to go for our wedding anniversary, shame I didn't read the reviews beforehand!
First impressions were not particularly good as the decor was a touch shabby and not particularly homely, probably not been touched much since the 70's. We were shown to a table (actually had the pick of the restaurant) and made our selection. Whilst waiting for our meal we had a little look around at the old photos on the wall and the young waiter/barman came over and explained the pictures and gave us a bit of a local history lesson, the highlight of the evening. Back at the table my wife noticed something floating in her drink, maggots? We were offered a replacement which seemed fine but a little latter we spotted more in the replacement, we suspect that they had come from the ice as they were not immediately evident. The young lad took it away and we heard him shout more maggots (we hadn't hinted what we thought they were) followed by more shouting from other staff. Sadly no apology or explanation was given, just left for the junior waiter (18?) to deal with!!!
Anyway the starter came which was not too bad but the waiter came and took our plates just as my wife was finishing off hers, think she was rather shocked as the plate disappeared from under her fork. Then onto the mains which were somewhat disappointing with greasy frozen chips and a rather bland and dry chicken breast with cheese & mushrooms for me and a rather sad looking piece of tuna for my wife. Well meal over and bill paid (sorry no tip) it was time to go and as we walked out the place was suddenly devoid of any staff, I think they were avoiding us despite us giving little in the way of complaint. Very poor management that cannot apologize to customers and leave it to very junior staff.

Will not be going back.

14 Jul 2011 18:18