Best Gastro Pubs in Swallowfield

We had a superb meal - to be candid this a restaurant rather than a gastropub. My starter of clam chowder showed the skill of the chef: no flour, hit of sweetcorn, tasty fish which wasn't over cooked and a real depth of creamy flavour. Beautifully presented. Best clam chowder I've ever had (and I have been to Boston). My main of chicken breast that was broiled and finished on et char grill was equally exceptional. Great flavour and served a bed of roasted new potatoes and green veg with a sauce and a gravy, all beautifully presented (again). The ambience is great: lively but not noisy, a definite local and handy for the theatre, all set off by crisp white linen and sparkling cutlery and glassware. Thank you very much - we won't be looking any further next time we are in Richmond!

I can honestly say this was the most enjoyable meal I have had for a long time. A regular foodie to Michelin restaurants throughout the world which I say not to show off but to put in perspective. The food itself was exceptional, beautifully presented with all the grandeur of the fancy chefs but somehow making it a meal. When did you last have such superb pig’s trotters. We loved it. I could go into all the pompous descriptions but it is easier to say just go, you cannot be disappointed. That being said don’t do it too soon because I’m aiming to return to have other items that caught my attention and would hate to think I couldn’t get in. The lady, and I’m so cross I didn’t get her name, that looked after us was wonderful. Efficient, professional but mostly delightful. We honestly felt cared for. We loved the ambiance too. Somehow discreet, very comfortable and peacefully quiet. Downside? We ordered three puddings between the two of us (don’t judge us, it’s hard to choose) and they are such large portions we couldn’t finish them. My street cred as dessert king in tatters. Loved it

We really enjoyed our meal at the Chequers. The staff were really lovely. Cannot fault them in any way. The ambience was great. Busy but not loud. The food was, on the whole, really nice. The adults not wanting to eat too much were welcome to choose from the kids menu. The kids fish and chips were particularly good. The ciabatta with the prawns was a bit too toasted for my parents. They couldn’t cut it as it was too crispy. They wished they’d had the kids meals as they were amazing. Two out of the four burgers ordered were fantastic, the other two not quite so great. I would definitely visit again. Best place I’ve been to eat with the whole family in a long time. There were 10 of us so they did well to get all the food out at the same time! Thank you!

Such a warm welcome, we were well looked after. The food was delicious and everything was perfect

Needs more vegetarian Indian choices but food was great