Old Black Lion, Hay on Wyeback to pub details please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
We got there at about 1:30 and asked if they were still serving food. The bloke behind the bar scowled at us and barked, 'We stop serving food at two'. Reasoning that this gave us plenty of time we gave him our order, which he took with what I can only describe as bad grace. We took no offence, however; he was such a bad tempered git that it cheered me up no end that we may have been the cause of his disgruntlement (mind you I don't think he was short of candidates). Supped on a well-kept pint of Reverend James while we waited for our lunch. The food was excellent and was brought out by a very friendly woman - the polar opposite of Mr Frosty - who was particularly sympathetic towards my hangover-afflicted wife. We will definitely be back - maybe at 1:45 the next time.
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Having visited Hay for many years, the Old Black Lion has previously provided good food at a price that is more reasonable than the Three Tuns. On our most recent visit we were sadly disappointed to find the previously excellent traditional food had been replaced by over fancy pretentious dishes. That didnt taste that good either. What a shame.
Our greatest disappointment however was the treatment we received at the hands of the man behind the bar. He's previously been brusque at the best of times, however this time we fully saw his true colours. Our meal came to about £23 and we handed over £30 to pay. This man said "thanks very much" in a final way, turned round, put the change in his tips box and then walked off out of the back if the bar in to the private area, completely ignoring our cries of protest! This was not a mistake or misunderstanding, but had the appearance of a well practiced scam.
He obviously thought he could get away with it as we were just "tourists"
We won't be eating there ever again. You will recognise this charmer, if you are foolish enough to eat there, he looks like Paul O'Grady and has a particularly bright and offensive watch. Having helped himself to a £7 tip he can maybe afford a new one now.
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Visited again.
Despite offering great food and drink, I don't think this pub actually wants any customers.
Customers are a bit of a nuisance at the 'Olde' Black Lion.
Bar and table service is fairly prompt, but frigid. Their faces would fall apart if they cracked a smile, or engaged you in small talk.
It is as if it is beneath the staff to treat you as a fellow human being.
This is a mighty shame as I had some great times in this pub under friendlier staff.
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A nice restaurant, but upmarket and not 'pub-grub'. They offer a restaurant menu and a bar menu. We opted for the latter but it was quite-pricey and felt like a restaurant. The food was quite rich, which will be pleasing to a lot of people but I found the sauce a bit heavy. It's worth coming here for a special meal.
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Visited on a Monday lunchtime (27/07/09).
The pub looked shut. Door was closed (despite it being quite a fine day). No A-board. No sign at all that it was open.
Tried the door and found it was indeed open. A few customers scattered here and there, but not exactly buzzing.
Our party of 3 arrived at about 13.45 and were hurried into ordering our lunch by the barman (they stop at 14.00). Menu selection and specials board offered a good variety of tempting dishes.
Food was excellent, tasty and hot, but service was rather impersonal and perfunctory.
Had a pint of Reverend James, which was excellent.
A great pub if you want to eat, and enjoy good ales, but don't expect a friendly atmosphere or personal service (unless you are a regular).
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Old Black Lion is a 4* small in. Bedrooms up top, walk in the front door and turn right to the bar. Food led pub, small bar for serving at, not for standing at and drinking. Lots of tables, with a restaurant as well. Restaurant quality food served throughout. Old Black Lion (Butty Bach) and Rev James on tap, both in good nick.
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