The Cricketers — Restaurant in England

We have not visited the Cricketers for some time and were pleasantly surprised with the refit and how much the pub/ restaurant has changed. The decor, atmosphere and staff all added up to the expectation of an enjoyable experience. Sadly all this was undermined when the food was presented. Although the menu offered a good selection priced at what seems to be the acceptable rates these days the quality was somewhat underwhelming. To be specific, the fish used in the fish and chips was flaky and tasteless, the mushy peas were also tasteless and miniscule in the portion provided. It is a meal that is served in most establishments and seemingly open to interpretation, this was not a good interpretation. The chicken Kiev was dry and overcooked, the burger was also dry and not very tasty. All in all a great start but fell short of a enjoyable dining experience purely and simply down to the food. After reading the reviews most people are happy with the food on offer, so I guess we encountered an off night it's just a shame as it was a birthday...

After reading the positive reviews we decided to stop off for a roast dinner. On arrival we were told we could not sit in the restaurant but was given the option to sit in the bar area or outside. We opted to sit inside, although we were warned that due to where we were seated, we may be forgotten about. After going up to the bar and ordering food, it took 35 minutes to arrive at the table. This was only after reminding them we were still there. The roast beef was tasteless, overcooked with a rubber like consistency. The roast potatoes had clearly been reheated , the veg was cold and looked like it had seen better days, all in all just a massive disappointment. Even the fly buzzing around wasn’t interested in our food. The staff never asked how our meals were, but then they know exactly how they are. On a positive note, the beer was alright. There is much better food and service in the area for similar cost. Safe to say, won’t...

My wife and I have just returned from lunch and were surprised and disappointed with the experience. Surprised because we had many excellent meals in the past and disappointed by the quality and size of the meals. My wife had sea bass which she thoroughly enjoyed although more of it would have been appreciated and I had chicken and sausage pie with vegetables. The chicken was well cooked, although rather bland in taste, and the sausage was rather chewy. The mashed potatoes had seeds on top although they made little difference to the taste and the cabbage comprised of two chunks which were lightly seared but impossible to cut into with the knife provided. Then to add insult to injury a service charge of 12.5% was added. Needless to say I did not acknowledge that. I did leave a tip however as the staff were polite , helpful and friendly. However, it is most unlikely that I shall visit the Cricketers again whilst Metro pubs...