Commoners — Restaurant in New Forest

A very odd experience. In short, the food wasn't great and while the service was friendly, it certainly wasn't great.

The place wasn't busy when I visited, with maybe 2 other tables in. The front of house staff member juggled these tables with a level of stress that I'd expect to see on an ICU nurse when a patient starts crashing. After ordering some waters we had to wait maybe 10-15 minutes for them. In this time we were brought cutlery and seasonings and a young lady brought in a (cute) puppy who in turn was offered water before we got ours. Said puppy roamed around freely while it's owner was overheard saying that it had 2 accidents at home previously. Staff didn't see the problem with it walking around the bar.

When the food arrived it was fine. Not awful, but if I'm honest my 15 pound chicken ciabatta was basically a chicken sandwich, some frozen chips and a small pot of supermarket coleslaw which had definitely gone off. I'm not one to make a fuss but I did mention this to the staff as they cleared the plates. It's very telling that I didn't get so much as a "that's embarrassing, sorry about that". If the kitchen staff aren't aware/don't care that their food is off then that's worrying but its just as worrying that they don't seem to care either.

Wouldn't come back and...

The Commoners Bar - in my travels, this would also be at home somewhere in Czechia or Germany. Stylish interior with industrial type lighting. Spacious with a great atmosphere. Welcomed by friendly bar staff member Lana from Ukraine, passionate. Setting up a bar-tab was no problems as we were sitting inside. High tables with high stools for 2 to 4 people, normal height tables too and comfy sofas in the front. Plenty of electrical points for those wishing to charge or use their electronic devices with free wifi. The bar, an impressive array of wines and top shelf. Cider, lager and a guest ale, Hicks, at 5%. Nicely chilled (but not too much) and not too hoppy. Looking at the menu, the prices were reasonable, not outlandish. Grazing boards, pizzas, something for the little ones, sides, buns and wraps. I opted for a burger that was served in a ciabatta bun and not brioche. Partner opted for ham, egg and chips. Both were exceptionally good.

Our bill came in under £50 for drinks, sharers plate and 2 main courses. A rarerity round here. Definately coming back and suggest others visit too.

Their drinks menu is one to read. Definately worth coming into this bar in Brockenhurst, relaxed, welcoming and not over-priced.

Was very impressed their loos especially the disabled. Clean...

Went here for breakfast Sunday morning, found the staff member that served us wasn't interested in working here. We ordered two hot drinks and a small breakfast each but the hot drinks didn't arrive until after the breakfast had arrived and we had to ask the whereabouts twice.

Other customers who came after us got their drinks before us. When they did come the hot drinks had to be left for a significant amount of time as they were boiling hot hot, the hot chocolate and cappuccino wasn't that good, not surprised as it came out of a machine you'd find in Whetherspoons.

The breakfast itself was a huge let down, especially since the toast arrived without any butter, never thought I would have to ask for my toast to be buttered.

Also breakfast is stated to be served until midday and 2 groups of people got turned away at 11:30.

I wouldn't recommend this place, Whetherspoons has better staff, food and...