[AD – Gifted expereince] When I was offered the chance to take Jonny and my parents to try the newly renovated Red Lion pub in Stoke Poges I thought it would be nice to check out somewhere local near to where we live in Surrey. We were there for their re-launch and to experience their new menu, what we got was this but a whole lot more because overall the experience was lovely.
We were greeted and taken on a quick tour of the newly renovated pub. It has been done up so well, it has kept it’s old features and just made it more modern and luxe by accessorising. Offering guests a large dining area, private dining room and bar there is plenty of seating to choose from. Jonny and my dad sat down in the bar area next to one of the large open fires as mum and I went and got drinks. They stuck with beer all evening but we went for the rather lovely gin bar they had set up with numerous pairings to choose from. The bartender was knowledgable and gave some great recommendations with the favourite being watermelon and mint.
As we sat by the fire sipping on our drinks a selection of canapés were brought over to us. These are all mini tasters from their starters and main menu and they were all delicious, my dad who hated brie now loves it. On this plater you have lamb koftas, deep fried brie, pork belly and veg, crab and lobster on crostini, duck liver pate and gooseberry jam on crostini and calamari.
After a few drinks we headed to our table, with no pressure from the staff they were happy to let us do whatever we wanted and go to the table when we were ready. Mum and I made sure to order a few more gin’s throughout the evening but next from their main cocktail menu. After a little deliberation we had decided on our starters and mains and they were with us in no time.
Jonny went for a larger version of the deep fried brie and mum with the duck pate. My dad and I went for the scallops of the day which were paired with a katsu sauce and coriander rice ball. Jheeze I would go as far as saying that we agreed they may have been the best scallops we had had anywhere.
Mains were just as delicious, dad and Jonny opting for steak with onion rings and mac & cheese for sides, me going for the mains version of the lamb kofts we had as canapés which has the best fresh salad to pair with it and me counteracting it with a side of fries and aioli. Mum wen’t for the pork bellow which was succulent with creamy dauphinoise and scallops.
Pudding was a push as we were all fit to burst but most of us managed, from a creme brûlée with warm oatmeal biscuits to a mini brownie which was still darn huge and came with a coffee.
We could safely say we waddled out, full and content and knowing that we would all be back. Quicker that you’d think for my parents who booked there and then for their valentines meal! This place is really special, a country vibe feel with good food, relaxed atmosphere and a price point that is really affordable for the quality. If you’re in the area pop in you won’t regret it, they open to the public again on the 9th February.
Oh my gosh the food looks incredible Kenz. It sounds like you all had an amazing time xxx
Gemma • Gemma Etc . ❤️
Thanks lovely! It was a really nice evening, so relaxed which was nice! xxx
no ay, i was at this event too! what a small world! the food was incredible but that gin bar was the best!!
Rosie
Ahh were you! Glad you had a good evening too! 🙂 You’re right the gin bar was a winner for me!
Kenzie xx