In the true
spirit of pub exploration, we were actually looking for a different pub when we
came across The Cricketers. Rather than risk wasting time searching for the pub
on our hit list, we decided to go with the hand of fate and see what was on
offer.
Firstly,
there was a car park, so that's a good start. Secondly, and most gratifying,
was the warm welcome we received upon entry. It is the easiest thing to do, and
has a huge effect on your first impressions of a pub, but it still astounds us
how rare it is. After the standard drinks, menu, table scenario, we got stuck
in to the menu. It wasn't massive, but that is no bad thing. When the food is
made from scratch, it makes sense not to overload the menu, creating a
nightmare for those in the kitchen. Most mains came in just under £14, which is
pushing in to the pricy bracket, but we try not to be too judgmental about
pricing until we have tried the food.
Since it
had been a while, we stripped it back to basics, both opting for a pub classic.
Fish and chips for me, and ham, egg and chips for Dad. After our order was
taken, we settled down and soaked up the surroundings. We both came to the
conclusion that this was a good place to be. A comfortable and relaxed vibe,
ably assisted by some appropriate music at an appropriate level, a perfect
temperature, and a good amount of light. Now it was all down to the food to
finish the job.
My fish and
chips came out on a long rectangular plate, which I liked. The main bulk of the
meal was bookended by a pot of pees on one side, and a pot of tartar sauce on
the other. The fish was cooked perfectly in a light batter. The chips were hand
cut, homemade, and all together wonderful. Dad of course had the same chips
keeping company with his honey glazed ham, which was apparently very good ham.
On a day
where destiny had guided us to the unexpected, all the elements of a perfect
pub lunch aligned, leaving us both with absolutely nothing to grumble about.
The service was friendly and faultless throughout, the food was great and as I
said, The Cricketers is just a wonderful place to be. The food may be a few
quid more than some other pubs, but we are happy to pay it when this is the
result.
Atmosphere 9
Service 9
Food 9
Value 8
Verdict 5*
