The Amato, Epsom

Ate there today for Sunday luch, excellent value, great meal, the lamb shank is still superb and the kids roasts were also excellent value. We had to sit outside as kids are not allowed in the bar but the garden was spacious with plenty of tables and as the weather was good it wasn't a problem. Would definitely go again, staff very friendly, drinks competitively priced.

7 May 2006 19:36

The Bell, Fetcham

This pub had really improved as a result of its revamp a couple of years ago but following frequent staffing changes it has really gone downhill in the last few months.
The drinks are have always been expensive but the recent meals I have eaten there have been very substandard whilst remaining pricey.
I think the Bell/Youngs are very well aware that they are the only pub in Fetcham and therefore feel they don't need to fight for their trade.
They claim to be child friendly but have no obvious children's menu (you have to ask for it)and the kids' meals they serve are small, unimaginative and have no vegetables of any kind! They also made us feel that our children were unwelcome and a nuisance.
On an adult only visit staff commenced stacking outdoor chairs inside the pub around us at about 10 o'clock! I think they wanted to get off early! It used to be packed but seems very quiet in comparison now, word travels fast in a village.
It is very sad to see the demise of the only village pub but they will have to improve considerably before I consider visiting again.

7 May 2006 19:30