Outlook — Restaurant in Reading

My boots were caked in the mud of a thousand miles, my sword – usually gleaming – dull from countless skirmishes with goblins and worse. Harrold Longbottom, they called me, though lately I felt more like Harrold Long-weary. The road had been a relentless gauntlet; bandits ambushed us near Widow’s Wood, a pack of ghouls stalked us through the Whispering Marshes. Each encounter left me more battered, both physically and mentally. I craved respite, a place where the only monsters were in the ale-induced nightmares.

Then, through the swirling dust kicked up by my weary mount, I saw it: The Outlook. A humble tavern, nestled between two gnarled oaks, it promised a haven from the harsh realities of the road. Smoke curled invitingly from its chimney, a beacon in the darkening twilight. The sign creaked gently in the breeze, its paint chipped but cheerful. Relief washed over me, a wave so potent it almost knocked me from my saddle. The promise of a warm fire, a hearty meal, and most importantly, a pint of something strong, spurred me onward.

The Outlook lived up to its name. The ale was superb, the staff welcoming, and the air thick with the comforting sounds of laughter and conversation, devoid of the usual screams and howls that punctuated my nights. It was a simple pleasure, a moment of peace earned through sweat, blood, and the relentless pursuit of monsters. Leaning back, my mug warming my hands, I finally felt the weight of the road lift, replaced by the gentle hum of contentment. This, I thought, is what I’d been fighting for all along: not just survival, but a place like this, a...

Whatever you do, don't expect to visit here to enjoy a quiet meal. The first ominous sign that all would not be well was making a table reservation days ahead, and arriving to find it allocated to a knee-high table in the lounge area. Moved to the dining area at the back of the pub (which was almost empty) then went to look at the drinks. Pointing at the draught pumps, I asked if it was okay to try something. "It depends what it is" was the response (no, of course I don't expect you to open a bottle?!) Sit back down to order via the app (no table service for ordering) which was unnecessarily complicated, so ended up going back to the bar. As soon as the order is in and sat back down, the music gets jacked up to three times volume, so it's almost ear-splitting. Speakers located above the dining area, it's impossible to escape the noise, and we can't move anyway. Later on a Friday or Saturday night when you want to get the pre-club boozers in is fine, but 7.20pm mid-week...seriously? Food arrived after a reasonable wait, and it's fine, though not amazing, and only just warm enough. Beer on special was good, glasses clean. Would I return here? Not for food at least, sorry. Not until you do something to zone your premises to split out your dining crowd from your transient...

I visited The Outlook last week when visiting Reading, and what a little gem of a place it is! I was greeted upon arrival by the lovely Harry, who was quick to ensure I was able to taste their great selection of traditional and craft beers to find a pint I loved! After a good laugh and a chat he recommended I take a seat out on their riverside terrace to enjoy the sun, and I definitely wasn't disappointed. For lunch I opted for their Cod Goujon Sandwich with a side of thick-cut chips; the bread and salad were wonderfully fresh, the fish was crispy and delicious, and those chips...proper pub chips! The portion size was excellent for the price and it made for a fantastic lunch, especially when accompanied by a couple more of those nice cold beers. All the staff I encountered couldn't do enough for their customers - their service was immaculately attentive, friendly and efficient throughout, despite it being rather busy. This pub has got all you need to be able to relax and soak up the good weather amidst the hustle and bustle of Reading. Thank you so much to Harry and the rest of his team - The Outlook will be a must-visit on my list the next time I'm...