The Jolly Boatman — Restaurant in Cherwell District

2013 Update

Looks like the Jolly Boatman is now under new management and I'm more than happy to revise my rating to a well deserved 5 stars. A large group (17+) of my work colleagues arrived for a farewell lunch to find that the restaurant area had been re-arranged to accommodate us, orders were taken swiftly and the food started to arrive within 5 mins of ordering. The lunchtime menu is fairly small but considering it's all home made I really don't mind as there was something for everyone. The quality of the food was fabulous and keenly priced. Would certainly recommend.

2011 Food ok, but the staff, including the landlady, had a real attitude problem. We were a large group of 10 and unfortunately one of our group did not get what they ordered, which to be fair can happen when there's a large group to cater for. When we raised this matter with one of the staff they grunted something and disappeared only to come back with the landlady who then proceeded to argue with us 'that's what you ordered' and basically told us 'tough luck, deal with it'. What happened to customer service! So, if you like your food served with a generous portion of attitude, The Jolly...

Lunch for 4 on a sunny, August Sunday was a mixed experience. The canal-side venue is lovely with the barges chugging under the bridge, plus walkers and bikers enjoying the rare sunshine. When we ordered at the bar (Greene King beers / Stowford Press cider) we were advised that food would take 45 minutes which was fair warning - and put a few visitors off. This applied even for starters which I suggested ran against the point of starters! We duly munched crisps with our first round of drinks. The shared fisherman's platter starter arrived after 35 minutes with tasty cod pieces, goujons etc. Mains were another half hour; all the meat (beef, pork and gammon) was well received, good roasties and very good Fish'n'Chips, but the veg was uniformly overdone and soggy. Bar and waiting staff were friendly and helpful but we we'll wait awhile before eating there again - more...

We were very hesitant about visiting here once we saw the Greene King sign (small, overpriced food portions) but once we were settled, we were glad we did. The pumps are Greene King but not the food. Result! The food is homemade and chosen by the landlord. I had the Cajun chicken burger and chips which was huge. Our friend had the pie of the day (Lamb, Mint and pea) which was also a substantial portion, while my wife had the lasagna which came with chips and decent garlic Bread. This was excellent and clearly homemade, unlike the pathetic effort that she had two nights previous at Beefeater. The staff were great, really friendly and nothing was too much effort. The pub sits on the canal bank and it was a shame that it was raining as it would have been nice to sit, eat and drink right on the canal bank. Our thanks goes to all the staff there. You're doing a great...