The White Lion, Dunstable

Having been to most of the family-type pubs / restaurants in and around Dunstable we called into the White Lion about 6 months after it had opened. As others have said, the busy car park was an initial attraction.

The decor was clean, airy and refreshingly contemporary; way above anything else in the area. The staff were friendly, attractive (always a plus) and intelligent which just added more points.

We hadn't booked but asked if we could eat and were led into the raised dining area. Another breath of fresh air with superb decor and really inviting tables for two, three, four, six, eight... The actual menu itself looked like someone had bothered to employ a designer to create it unlike every other one I've looked at in a long time. The food was outstanding. I can't remember what we ordered on that first visit but we've eaten quite a few different meals since, to be able to say that. The Specials are not the usual warm-ups from yesterday but were told by the staff that they are fresh fish and sea food, meat and produce bought that day. And if fish is your thing then I can hand-on-heart say you will find no finer dining room within miles. In my opinion, the quality and refinement of the dishes towers over those of comparable places including Woburn's excellent Paris House and Ivinghoe's King's Head.

But the thing that really sets this place apart is the consistency... Every time we go, we're never disappointed - maybe because it seems more familiar and homely to us and the staff recognise us and make a point of acknowledging it. We visit The White Lion about every two or three weeks or so; sometimes just for a drink or for one of their popular chef's evenings (too much to say on that here... just try one out! Awesome!).

In summary, the White Lion is way above anything you'll find in Dunstable or the surrounding villages. Yes, if it gets busy, the staff hurry around more than usual and might not be as chatty, but remember it could be you they are hurrying around after!. It is a success because they do things properly. Attention to detail is everywhere (just take a visit to the toilets and you could be in a five-start hotel!). Yes, it's a little more expensive but the quality is outstanding. It significantly raises the bar for any local eateries and looking at their packed car park - even on a rainy tuesday evening - is testimony to their hard work.

3 Apr 2011 21:09