Gribble Inn — Restaurant in Chichester

Review of Christmas Dinner at The Gribble Inn, Oving

We recently visited The Gribble Inn in Oving, near Chichester, for an early Christmas dinner, and it was our first time dining here. We usually review breakfasts at various locations, but this time we were excited to experience a festive meal in such a charming location.

The Gribble Inn is beautiful, with its original log beams and delightful Christmas decorations, which set the perfect festive mood. As history enthusiasts, we found the age of the building fascinating. Originally not an inn, the property was transformed into the Gribble Inn after the passing of local teacher Rose Gribble in 1980. Local farmer Peter Hague converted the cottage into an inn and, in 1987, moved the local five-barrel brewery to the property. The brewery still operates today, and the ales can be enjoyed at the inn.

Our Christmas dinner experience began with a delicious starter of Cured Salmon, Dill & Caper Timbale, and Pickled Red Onion Salad. It was a new dish for me, but I’m so glad I chose it. It was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented—a perfect start to our festive meal.

For the main course, we both opted for the Turkey Roulade wrapped in bacon, filled with pork and cranberry stuffing, and served with traditional trimmings. Initially, I thought the portion seemed small for the price, but I was wrong! The dish was hearty and satisfying, with roast potatoes, glazed carrots, parsnips, sausage wrapped in bacon, and a generous serving of turkey roulade. It was absolutely delicious, and I barely managed to finish it.

Of course, we couldn’t resist dessert. There were several tempting options, but we both went for the Crème Brûlée, which was simply divine. For £8, it was excellent value, and chocolate lovers will definitely fall for this indulgent treat.

We also ordered from the children's menu for our little one, who chose the Fish and Chips. The portion size was perfect, with fish, chips, peas, and tartare sauce, all of which were thoroughly enjoyed. At £8, it was a great deal for a kid’s meal.

The atmosphere at The Gribble Inn was warm and inviting, with plenty of original features and a lovely Christmas ambiance. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made us feel welcomed, offering excellent one-to-one service.

Overall, The Gribble Inn proved to be a wonderful spot for our Christmas dinner. The food was exceptional, the atmosphere was festive, and the service was top-notch. If you haven’t been here yet and enjoy good-quality food in a historic setting, it should definitely be on your list of...

The Gribble Inn is a hidden gem in the village of Oving near Chichester. Inside the thatched, 17th century listed building, there is a warm and welcoming atmosphere, and not just from the large, roaring open fire in the main bar area. Even tho they were extremely busy, we were seated very quickly and presented with a mouth watering menu, including children's option (with colouring and puzzles!). Having it's own Micro Brewery, there was a selection of beers to choose from with a variety of flavours (perfect for any real ale enthusiasts). Our starters were prompt and beautifully presented, a whole Baked Camembert with a selection of breads and onion chutney, Homemade Soup and garlic ciabatta bread. Mains were gorgeous, (as pictured) Pork Bellies with Crunchy crackling and veg, Lamb with a delicious veg crumble, Brioche bun Homemade beef burger and homemade chunky, fluffy chips. My Chocolate Brioche pudding looked so good I ate it before I realised I hadn't taken a pic but highly recommend if available. My youngest had a personalised Brownie, presented so amazingly, for a second I didn't think he would spoil it by eating it..... half a second. Before we left I had a cup of coffee which arrived with a square of homemade flapjack which was so good I had to split it 3 ways! All the staff were polite and helpful, worked great as a team and answered any questions about the food, drinks or pub itself with knowledge and enthusiasm. I would highly recommend a visit to the Gribble, weather it's for a great meal, a pint of beer from the Micro Brewery or to enjoy some live music outside...

Nice location on a sunny day, far enough off the beaten track that only those in the know tend to go there. Sadly there are a lot 'in the know' and spring-autumn lunchtimes are filled with retired people spending their magical silver pounds. This can mean getting served is a challenge and getting a seat near impossible.

Beer is excellent in choice and serving. This visit I had a rhubarb cider that was just magnificent.

Sadly I find the food, although not bad, overpriced for what in my experience is pretty plain pub food. I had a steak burger which although commanding a premium of several pounds, looked and tasted like a normal burger. To be honest I'm not sure they got the order wrong, charging me for a steak but serving me the standard burger.

If you value style more than value for money, this is the place for you. If you are looking for cheap pub grub, not so much.

Finally, on this visit I found my way to the bar blocked by three very large (I assume) locals who seemed to think they owned the place, with their bar stools blocking access to 75% of the serving area at the bar. They made no effort to move or relocate to one of the many free tables and got in the way of several customers. Their attiude,for me at least ruined the experience as I don't expect to be passive-agressively bullied when out for a quiet lunch, and the staff seemed to not care less.

Unfortunate one off, or a nod to level of customer care? You decide!

Score based on this visit, and I knocked a star off for the...