The Malt Shovel — Restaurant in Dartford

Since last review below we went back for Friday night dinner

They try is the best I can say this time

I wanted pie and they had steak and kidney also chicken and ham on menu - none left so went for burger

My wife wanted fish and chips- none left so went for steak

Waited at table for food, waited and waited and waited, after an hour we asked if we were going to get fed - they said kitchen busy but as only about 10 people eating this seemed hard to believe

Food came 1 hour 15 mins after ordering with food served on a plank of wood - what's wrong with a plate ?

Food OK steak not how ordered more like well done burger ok at best

They were very kind there and didn't charge for some of the drinks due to wait but not really the point

Wife gets hangry when not fed !!!! Not a pleasant sight - lol

We may have been unlucky this time

It's just a shame as the pub is very nice and could be so much better than this visit suggested

Previous review below

Just came back from Sunday lunch Choice limited for main course chicken beef lamb or pork and a vegetarian option but all we had was hot plentiful and tasty

Didn't know there was a pudding option as was not shown a menu which was a shame as we would probably have squeezed one in😊

Drinks pub priced - it is after all a pub!

Worth a visit

Also been there just for a drink before and all very nice clean and tidy including toilets which is a big plus to me

They have a TV for sports i think

They have a small car park but there is plenty if on road parking when full and small beer garden which is nice on a hot day like today

A well run pub

Just try to let people know about puddings as this was not at all clear they were available for...

5 Stars – A Truly Exceptional Experience.

We recently hired The Malt Shovel for a celebration of life following a funeral service, and it was nothing short of outstanding. From start to finish, the level of care, attention to detail, and professionalism shown by the entire team was incredible.

The landlord, Neil, was absolutely amazing – he gave us all the time we needed, offered expert guidance throughout the planning process, and ensured that everything ran smoothly on the day. Nothing was too much trouble. The venue was well-organised and equipped with a media screen and PA system, which were perfect for speeches and tributes.

The food was exceptional – generous in volume, varied in selection, and top quality. The team were responsive, attentive, and made everyone feel welcome and looked after.

What they helped us create was more than just an event – it was a beautiful, memorable celebration that perfectly honoured our loved one. It’s something we will never forget. Highly recommended to anyone looking for a warm, professional, and truly caring venue. I’m sure many of our guests will be returning to the Malt Shovel in the future. Well done...

I have been going to the Malt Shovel for well over twenty years, and until recently I have loved the place, but my recent experiences have changed this. Last time I visited with a friend for lunch, we were told that the kitchen was closed, without prior warning. Today I have just got home after a visit to the Malt Shovel with my Mother and sister. We had pre booked a table for lunch. We placed our food order at 12.25, but we were not served until 1.15, despite the pub being almost empty on a Friday lunch time. The vegetables accompanying my Mother and sisters meals were soggy and overcooked when they eventually arrived, and the bread for my sandwich was seriously stale. We complained to the waiter and he said the reason our order had taken so long was that we were the first order of the day. This was unacceptable. The pub used to be seriously busy on a Friday lunchtime, but today was almost empty when we eventually left at around 2pm. I suspect that customers may well be staying away if they experienced the extremely slow service and poor food. I am extremely...