The Dandy Lion — Restaurant in England

Went yesterday with my partner and had a lovely afternoon. Ordered a burger each just before we got the train home but, unfortunately, both were overdone - tough and chewy - with my fiancee's burnt. We were okay with it as we needed to leave so when the waiter collected our plates and asked, 'how was it?', we told the truth. We were not complaining and it was simply feedback, delivered in a tactful way. At this moment, the waiter proceeded to tell us we were wrong and that it is done on the grill (for the burnt burger) and aligning with EU regulation (it has to be cooked past a certain point). As sure as i am that this is true, the tone was very defensive and it made us both feel like we were being told off. Neither of us are chefs but we both know the difference between a well done and overdone burger. We were not looking for money off or to be given anything as we were about to leave (and had already paid), and were sure it was just a one off as the organisation has a great reputation for food. Real shame as it's tarnished my experience of an otherwise great afternoon....

Food was delicious and the setting beautiful. If I'm ever in the south again I'd call in here.

That being said, there was only one person serving. Whilst he was extremely friendly, welcoming and excellent at his job (possibly the owner), the young woman behind the counter was less so. If I'm being honest, she seemed very new. Whilst I can forgive someone learning a job or still being jittery, she lacked gumption and seemed lazy - something I find much harder to overlook.

This is the only reason I can't award five stars. Given that we visited in August and I'm writing this in October, I'd hope that she has either upped her game or has moved on. Other than this small issue on the one night we attended, the place sticks in my mind as a perfect little pub with, for a pub of its size and kind, truly outstanding food. Prices were very fair for the food on offer and as I say, the young man who I believed owned the place was a true gent and very...

Came here on Good Friday without booking. Got a nice table upstairs. Staff were very welcoming and friendly. Frank Sinatra and oldie swing music playing gave the place a great ambience. The novel paintings around of lion headed dandy looking fellows were a really great touch. Some very nice local ales and ciders on tap. Started off with olives, really nice fresh garlicy olives and a good serving for the price. I had the rib eye steak which came with mushrooms, tomato and the crispiest homemade chips I have ever had. The missus had the mozzarella stuffed chicken with tenderstem brocolli and mash. Both were incredibly tasty and cooked perfectly.

We had a really nice evening here and have vowed to try and get back asap to try the Cornwall caught haddock, the dandy lion burger and the pie of the day.

Overall great atmosphere, great location, great staff, great food, great drink and good...