Flying Horse, Clophill

We have been twice since the change of ownership, the first saturday it opened when we had a reasonable meal with lovely Ambiance, not cheap but I've had worse and paid more, so overall not a bad experience, although at the time it was clear that the staff were new, eager to please but not knowing a lot.
The second time was in November when on the basis of the first time we thought perhaps it would be better, what a disaster! same lovely Ambiance but the music was too loud.
The menu choice was abysmal all fancy stuff and very pretentious, and the food wasn't very good at all, staff still seemed a bit confused, and I was very upset that it had cost my daughter over a �100 for a rubbish meal, when I had chosen the venue.
I went on line and filled out the customer satisfaction questionnaire and didn't pull my punches, I didn't expect, nor did I receive any communication regarding my complaint, it's obviously only there to look good.
Until there is a change from a less pretentious menu to something that also has a choice of plainer fare, and the food itself improves, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. the rating I gave only takes into consideration the setting, not the food which would have been one.

27 Feb 2010 02:29

The Dog and Badger, Maulden

My wife and myself called in on wednesday lunch time, we were a bit wary as a couple of years ago when we last visited, eating there couldn't be classed as a good experience, thankfully it changed hands about 18 months ago.

Staff were very welcoming, we were asked if we preferred to eat in the dining room, which we did, there was a choice off of the specials board, the normal menu and a special menu with a 2 course meal for �6.95
My wife had prawn cocktail on a plate rather than in a glass which my wife said was excellent, and it made a change not having to eat it out of a glass! (I can't even face the stuff!) followed by Steak and Ale Pie in lovely home made pastry, no fat or gristle, it was excellent as was the choice of vegatables, not the usual peas and carrots, and if you wanted them cooked a bit more, (choice was offered) then that was no problem either.
I had the soup of the day, Leek & Potato, which was excellent, followed by Steak & Ale Pie.
With a couple of drinks the damage was about �18, excellent value, lovely staff, excellent friendly inviting dining room, and going by the number of people eating in the Restaurant, many satisfied customers.
Added bonus is that the car park has been surfaced, unlike my previous visit.

27 Feb 2010 02:17