The Black Bull, Balsham

Back again to the Black Bull affter last years accurate but sad review.. I'm glad to say the Landlord has changed and brought much better experience.

Beer is kept well - atmosphere very happy and friendly - considerate and able bar staff.

Two menus do seem to compete for a middle price versus premium. However service was excellent and the management seem to be really on the ball now. Four of us ate and all had a good meal save for a bit of a miss with an experimental desert that could not be rescued despite the attempts of the microwave.

The Black Bull now represents a good port of call - it will be even better as the young new chef hones his skills (inexperience does show a little in some efforts) However if the trend of improvements continues as it has then Balsham may well have a high quality place to eat.

10 Apr 2009 14:13

The Black Bull, Balsham

Pub has a lot of potential and has been taken over by new management early in 2008. Sadly little investment has been made, save to clear up the clutter of old decorative teapots and to print new menu's that proffer disappointing food at prices that would make a good restaurant wince.

The Black Bull used to be run by a couple originally from London who sold up the freehold. The new owners soon gave up on the plot too and now let to a local publican who has brought very little to help the pub improve in key areas.

Food is aimed at a more upmarket clientel but sadly is pretty nondescript, overpriced and misses the mark in quality. Not good for a pub in the backs of the country that needs people to travel to it, or to get the repeat business off the village.

Customer service varies from awful to good dependant on staffing. The current manager has a high opinion of his ability that sadly stops the actual practice of good modern customer service and a chance to employ a high quality chef. This is reflected in often disappointing or in one case dangerously undercooked food (my personal experience) and poor follow up should customers complain.

On the up side. The loos are clean and well decorated. Lots of parking, pleasant if dated surroundings. Lots of oddly placed hewn wood that does not fit with the character of the historic old property.

Generally well kept beer, not a huge selection but ok. Only had one or two bad pints in past which were changed by past landlords. Would not trust new landlord to react well if he was asked to change a bad pint.

I do not visit often now due to lack of reasonable quality food and service. It would be better to drive a few miles to somewhere more special if you wish to eat.

As I live near the village I will give it ago again in a month or so and let you know!

9 Jun 2008 16:14