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A place like the Red Lion 'On The Green' probably has something special that keeps its steady stream of regulars coming back despite it off-the-beaten-track location, and yes, who would not like to spend a few hours away from the bustling city and unwind at the pub's extensive gardens. Then head to the restaurant to assuage those hunger pangs or you could also have an alfresco meal at the grounds.

But the food is the real reason to visit and with dishes such as venison casserole and monkfish you know sourcing and seasonality is taking seriously here. Amongst starters there is terrine of smoked chicken stuffed with pistachio nuts, and sliced smoked salmon and prawns followed by steak Diane flamed in brandy and finished with a Dijon mustard, mushroom and cream sauce. Other robust main courses include pan-fried fillet of pork and oven roasted duck breast set on a fresh ginger and plum sauce.

The area around the cathedral city of Lichfield is in need of a wider spread of places to eat and here we have a pretty, canal-side, half-timbered house full of charm and friendliness. Chef Giuseppe Iaconi - also known as Il Marchigiano - is seen behind the hobs and his culinary skills are being put to good use to satisfy those who crave for food that tastes just the way 'nonna' used to make them.

A menu that derives from Le Marche in Italy offers an impressive array of dishes that eagerly takes advantage of the opportunities for local sourcing. Not to be missed is the chef's signature dish pollo marchigiano, pan-fried chicken breast served in a creamy white wine and mushroom sauce and for dessert, Giuseppe's homemade lemoncello makes a zesty alternative to tiramisu.

Il Marchigiano at The Plum Pudding conveys an impression of cheerful warmth, formality kept to a minimum, plenty of antique pine, and service to match.