Pen & Wig - JW Bassett Pub — Restaurant in Newport

Went here for an 80s night back 2 weeks ago. From the moment we got there, the atmosphere was pretty bad. The young lady behind the bar who served us just looked like she couldn't be bothered, didn't even smile. It doesn't take a lot to do and can make people feel more welcomed and relaxed. Then, there was no room to actually sit down. After half an hour, we finally found a seat. The table was absolutely disgusting and had not been cleaned. 8pm came, and we decided to go upstairs to the event. Upstairs was lovely all done out like a typical 80's disco. The people on the door were really friendly and made you feel relaxed.

The place was empty to begin with, but we were told it would fill up by about 9.30pm, to which it did. But my only complaint was it was supposed to be 80's music, which is why we went, but my wife and I didn't recognise any of the songs, plus I only knew about 2 songs. I was under the impression it was going to be mainstream chart music, not album songs, that not many people know. Around 10 pm, my wife and I decided we were going. Plus, it's really funny that the female DJ was putting songs on that no one knew, but she was singing along to, plus she was on the dance floor all the time.

When we arrived home, we both said we wouldn't go there again. Just wasn't what we were expecting.

So anyone thinking of going, just be aware, it's what I would call 80's alternative music, not...

Lunched yesterday with friends - return visit after approx 18 months although my friends are regular diners. Large menu so lots of choice from which I chose Hunters Chicken with Double cooked chips, peas, grilled tomatoes & fried onions priced at £11 99. My friends chose Fish, chips & Mushy Peas - normally £9 99 but part of the "2 for £14 99 offer". Food wasn't long in being served (no other diners) & only 2/3 people drinking at the bar. Some of the chips were undercooked & peas were almost cold. Far too much cheese on the chicken & virtually no bbq sauce. Unfortunately, my meal was soon cold as it was served on a cold plate. I didn't ask for it to be re-heated as I was hungry. My friends thoroughly enjoyed their fish but their chips were also undercooked & the Mushy Peas were cold. This is not the 1st venue I have been to that serves food on cold plates - it...

I've been here now for the 3rd time, gorging myself on the "Newport Destroyer". It just is a spectacular Burger!! Basically the only burger I know off, claiming to be spicy and actually being really spicy.... Besides being spicy, It really is delicious!! Spectacular! And this means even more since I am a German actually advertising English food!! ;-). Just kidding, or am I?, 😁

Keep it up & regards to the chef!

There's only one little downturn: For me a burger is ment to be fingerfood. Means "grab it & take a bite". Sadly burger these days are getting taller and taller. And it's just impossible to "grab & bite" without creating a mess, even when using the provided "tools"! Why not make the burger wider in diameter instead of growing in height?

Nevertheless, one of the best...