The Star Inn, Harome

Can't agree more with most of the comments, though i am amazed that the chap in the stag group even got through the door.
This is an outright gastro pub, and it's position as a 'simple village local' doesn't seem to fit too well with it.
As someone who very much loves food and drink - i made a special effort to visit whilst on a break with my girlfriend.
We consider ourselves to be prefectly respectable - so i was surprised when we walked in, and were looked upon by the barman as if we were something he would scrape off his shoe with a stick.
When i politely enquired as to what vegetables were available, having been asked if i wanted any - i was treated as if i could not read, and was pointed back to the menu (the barman having asked if he should read it for me!) - the only 'vegetables' in evidence were thick and skinny chips.
I do not call chips 'vegetable', and never have.
The only time the gentleman smiled, was when he was taking my money - i've spent far less and received far better service, elsewhere.
The food is ok, relative to the price - �19 for less than 120grams of belly pork is, i think, rather steep (especially with no vegetables!); but it was nice enough.
Don't go unless you're a local - or don't mind being looked upon as lower class by the barman.

3 Aug 2008 09:51

The Grosvenor, Nottingham

As a regular drinker in the Grosvenor for many years, i've seen a number of changes. The grosvenor used to be a fantastic pub.
I was surprised, but not remotely disappointed to see a 4.8 rating. I think the people who are rating this place have it spot on. Perhaps they are slightly generous though.
This pub has seen it's best days, whilst recently refurbished, and with generally very pleasant and helpful bar staff - the current management team seem happy to run it into the ground.
Stock control seems to be a major problem for the person in charge - being unable to keep a steady supply of the pub's most popular lagers. Upon being challenged as to why it's not possible simply order more of the popular lines - a simple shrug of the shoulders speaks volumes about the landlords attitude. Doesn't give a toss!
Comments about this place being a 'drinking' pub, rather than an 'eating' one, are also spot on - prepare yourself for premium prices and mediocre generic microwave food in return.
If you attend this pub for a few beers prior to going out for a stag do (based at the hotel over the road) - you'll be surprised by the lively atmosphere and general buzz..
If you're a regular, like me - you'll be starting to look further afield for a local and hope for a sign saying 'under new management' outside the grosvenor very soon.
I did overhear a conversation between the current landlord and a customer regarding how he is being 'headhunted' (?)to run a pub in Sheffield - the Oxley, just up the hill from the train station.
This again speaks volumes about how much the landlord knows - it's called The Howard, has been for decades. And apparently, it's a popular bar with the gay community...

3 Aug 2008 09:40