The Hare and Hounds, Lingfield

The pub stands up well by comparison to almost all of the country dining pubs that I use regularly throughout Sussex and the Home Counties, frequently blessed with several places that would give many London restaurants a good run for their money. The Hare & Hounds beats most of these hands down.

The current chef and his wife took the premises over some 2 years ago and their influence has been clear from the transformation of the menu from good to something that in my opinion has become uniformly excellent.

Chef Eric has a sound background in clever culinary skills that are highlighted by carefully-prepared, but deceptively simple sauces that compliment a range of changing seasonal dishes, most of which use fresh local ingredients. A two course fixed price menu compliments these and they�re all supported by simple pub classic and salads. This results in a fairly-priced menu where few would find it difficult to choose something appetising. I�ve yet to try anything that failed to live up to its promise and the owners and their helpful, friendly staff are always happy to help anyone torn between several choices.

The pub currently has on tap well-kept Greene King IPA and Harvey�s Best Bitter from Lewes, as well as a range of other lagers, ciders and stouts. There�s a sensible wine list with examples from both new and old world sources, with a number of choices of good wine by the glass at reasonable prices.

There�s plenty of seating space, where there�s a range of eclectic furnishings and sofas as well as more conventional tables and chairs both around the bar area and in the surrounding rooms. Outside space includes a south-facing decking area along the front of the building, with more space behind where shaded decking and trestle tables offer further seating options. Additional outside dining is planned for the future.

9 Jul 2011 09:25