Pub food at its finest!

Published 6 Jul 2010 16:00 0 Comments

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HOTEL restaurants usually evoke thoughts of large rooms, buffet tables and not a tablecloth out of place.

As nice as these restaurants are they sometimes lack character, but that is not the case at the Best Western Moat House in Sindlesham.

The Poacher's Pub is a charming restaurant by the river, with ample tables outside so guests can enjoy the surroundings, and a spacious restaurant which does not lose the feel of a country pub.

On arrival we were greeted by friendly staff whose relaxed yet attentive manner matched the atmosphere.

My boyfriend and I look forward to garlic bread as a starter, and settled on garlic dough balls (£3.95) and homemade toasted cheese and garlic French bread (£3.95).

Both were generous portions and more than enough to share.

Both servings were just what was needed, with lots of cheese.

The dough balls were perfectly cooked and came with a garlic and herb butter dip, which didn't leave an overwhelming garlic taste long after the final bite as so many do.

The restaurant also offered football themed sharer starters, such as the Italian plate complete with fried mozzarella sticks, marinated olives, dough balls, Mortadella and Milano salami and seafood marinated in lemon, parsley and chilli, all for just £12.95.

For the main course I chose a spicy Thai chicken burger with homemade chips, sweet chilli sauce and prawn crackers (£8.95).

The food was fantastic and I could taste Thailand in the chicken.

I'm not normally a fan of prawn crackers but these were really tasty and not too greasy.

My boyfriend opted for smoked haddock and Gruyére fishcakes (£8.95) with a house salad (£2.50).

The portions were huge and well worth the money.

We found ourselves wondering whether we would find space for dessert.

But it was divine and I couldn't get enough of the sticky toffee pudding and toffee sauce (£4.75). As soon as the plate was put before me the smell drew me in.

My boyfriend went for a simple strawberry ice cream which tasted as fresh as if the strawberries had just been picked. It was a great end to a very pleasant evening.

Where? Mill Lane, Sindlesham, Berkshire, RG41 5DF

Telephone: 0118 949 9988

How much? Starters £3.95-£8.95, main courses £8.25-£15.50, desserts £4.75.

Opening times: Noon-11pm Monday to Saturday and noon-10.30pm on Sundays. Food is served all day until 10pm.

This article appeared in Villager 01 Jul 10

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