I was there for the first time on Monday evening. Yes, it was very busy, so we ended up eating at one end of a wonky table in the pub, the service was a bit rough and ready, and was slow…, but the staff turned out to be very nice, and wanted us to enjoy what the place is about – the food and drink. We both had the “Lop” – which was marinated and stewed pork, with polenta, and a side dish of greens. When it arrived, I thought it looked like it had been under the hot-plate for a while, but what it lacked in visual appeal it made up for in flavour and mouth-feel – it was absolutely delicious, really hearty, plenty of it, complex flavours. The Polenta was the best I've ever had (not that I've had that much), but it was buttery, tasty, and stood up to the stew. And the greens – plainly boiled, big leaves of dark green greens, tasting of greens, with a bit of greens water at the bottom of the serving dish. You are either going to love that or hate it. I love my greens. Served with that rich main dish, it was perfect. The bread was excellent too, and is gratis.
I was drinking draught beer, so was very happy with the Bombardier. My friend was on the white wine – they don't serve the usual Sauv Blanc, or Pinot Grigio, but there was an extensive and affordable wine list – she had a half carafe of Trebbiano. The bill was just short of £45.
I heartily recommend the place if you are not in a hurry, and can be happy in not so slick surroundings.