Bob (5 October 2008)

We were entertaining a friend, who had recently moved to a village about four miles away, to Sunday lunch and, having eaten at the restaurant some years ago, thought it worthy of a return visit, appreciating that much can change in a short time with the wrong management. Mindful that we had driven for an hour from Bath to Coleford we both wished to enjoy our lunch and provide the friend with a special treat. The car park looked almost empty upon arrival so there was a little concern that things had changed. We made a restaurant reservation over the phone but expressed a preference for the bar area on arrival, which was homely and quite busy. It must be said that the formal restaurant, just off the main bar, looked very dark, partly unlit, and not that inviting. So if you’re reserving a table opt for the bar area.

Service was immediate and the members of staff were all very attentive. Now the upshot - we believe we know good food and prefer our restaurants to be attentive but relaxed. From the starters to the puddings everything was absolutely first class, well done chef and well done the waiting staff, we’ll be making an excuse to visit the friend again very soon. This establishment is part of a hotel and on separate websites there have been criticisms of the dated appearance of parts of the property. This should not detract from the dining experience but with my design conscious hat on; there are definite improvements to be had, which could take this from a good restaurant to one of the most desirable in the area. That said the food, the key to any successful restaurant, was delicious. The friend, incidentally, took a business card away with her vowing to make a definite return date for friends locally.