The Cock Horse, Hildenborough

Visited this pub today (Saturday 17th July) for a spot of lunch. Beer was good, Mine Host (loose term in this case) couldn't accept justified complaint about one of two dishes we ordered. Steak and Ale pie was very good, but the Plaice, Chips and Peas was possibly one of the worst I have ever been served. Batter was rock hard ("it is deep fried, you know"), "you ate the fish" (I know, it was all that was fit for eating), peas were OK, (but you have to be REALLY rubbish to screw those up), and the chips were stale, and very, very hot.
The charming waitress proffered the usual "everything all right, Sir?", and on being advised that it was not, stated her intention to advise the chef. "Mine Host" (I must avoid this erroneous term here!) appeared, took the remains of the meal away (I had made a brave attempt to consume it), and stated that he would not charge for it. The bill arrived - full charge for the fish dish included - and The Publican ("Mine Host" was clearly absent) accepted my reluctant payment, having stated that he had counted the chips remaining!!. At this, payment by me was insisted on, with my comment "You won't like the write-up". "That's out of order" was the oaf's reply.
So, out of order or not, here's the summary: Earlier comments on mediocre food are entirely justified. The Landlord has clearly forgotten one of life's essentials - don't piss of the customer if it is custom that keeps you in business. Customer satisfaction at 50% (my wife's food was quite good) is a recipe for disaster, and, in these straightened times, you need every customer you can get. (But count us out!!).

17 Jul 2010 15:26