The Chequers Inn, Rowhook

After reading some of the earlier posts it was with some trepidation that we booked for my birthday celebration meal in July. We thought that maybe the place had changed hands. We have been going to the Chequers (Neals Restaurant) for several years - for special occasions.
We arrived to the warm, friendly greeting that we were used to, and were shown to our table in the restaurant (which had been redecorated since our last visit). The service was absolutely fine (this was a Friday evening). Our order was taken promptly and the courses arrived at a pace that we were happy with. We had to wait a bit for the bill, but that just meant that we didn't feel pressured to vacate the table.
The food, as always, was top notch. All 3 courses were really tasty and presented beautifully. My husband's sticky toffee pudding was the best he has tasted. He still mentions it a couple of months on! He is also of the opinion that they have the best-kept Harveys beer that he has found to date.
So to say that we were relieved is an under-statement. We will happily continue to visit Chequers for special meals out.

Maybe if you are just looking for a place to drop into for casual pub grub then this might not be the best place for you. I'd say the food is more in line with 'gastro-pub', and I expect to pay slightly more for it as a result. (Although I still think it is very reasonable). Also, we always visit in the evening (apart from an occasional Sunday lunch) and we always book a table in advance. With the popularity of the food here that may be why some visitors perceive issues when they just arrive 'on-spec'.
Highly recommended!

26 Sep 2009 12:44