The Sandrock Hotel, Shirley

What an oasis amongst the usual pub fare around the area. We went as a party of 6 on a Friday night and found the food and hospitality of a high standard. In fact the Landlady in particular went out of her way to prepare an off menu dish for the vegetarian in our party - and no it wasn't an omlette or salad! The decor is an engaging mix of Bistro Pub but doesn't look contrived or from an episode of the antiques road show. The food isn't the usual boil in a bag fayre and easily rivals that of some of the so called local restaurants. The choice of beer is wide enough for every taste and the dress code and prices would only put off the chavs who are served ably by the suprise down the road and no doubt accounts for some of the unflattering reviews posted here as previously it was an absoloute dive catering to a handful of locals. If you are looking for good food, friendly service and a civilised atmosphere you can do no better.

18 Aug 2009 16:01