The Black Swan, A Heartwood Inn — Restaurant in Stratford-on-Avon

My partner and I had an incredibly disappointing lunch here today. Looking at the 5 star reviews for this restaurant, I feel that they are referring to a totally different establishment! Our experience was very different.

Here is a quote from your website:

[If you’re a local foodie looking for a new place to indulge in an exquisite culinary experience, The Black Swan truly has it all]

With that in mind here is our experience......... Firstly, when we entered via the bar area, there were no staff to be seen and hence no-one to greet us or at the very least acknowledge our presence. Staff appeared to be thin on the ground. The restaurant was not busy at the time. The table we chose to sit at had not been cleaned, drinks mats were ripped and well used, menus dirty and again well used. No one came over to take our order, we had to go to the bar to place our order. After requesting menus and a wine list, we received menus but no wine list. Again, back to the bar.

Now for the food. We chose the beef burgers. These were the worst attempt at burgers we have ever had the misfortune to have eaten. I'm sorry to say but McDonalds burgers would have been an improvement. Basic ingredients at best served with frozen fries. Incredibly uninviting. Brioche burger buns should have been grilled or at least warmed, unseasoned burger and plain iceberg lettuce. When my partner went to the bar to request another drink, staff should have offered to bring it to the table; they didn't. As is usual in most restaurants, staff will ask if everything is okay during your meal. They didn't. On leaving, I requested that the gratuity was deducted from the final bill. This would have been the moment to ask if we were happy with our meal, again, they didn't. So many missed opportunities to put things right. Unfortunately the staff and possibly the chef don't appear to have their hearts in their jobs, and it shows. We had high hopes for this eatery but regrettably we won't be recommending...

Nestled in the heart of Henley-in-Arden, The Black Swan masterfully blends historic charm with contemporary flair. Its traditional Tudor frontage, wooden floors, and atmospheric low ceilings exude warmth and character, while the oak-framed extension offers a bright and modern garden dining area, seamlessly connecting to an inviting outdoor deck.

During the Six Nations, The Black Swan transforms into a vibrant hub for rugby enthusiasts. The lively atmosphere is palpable, with patrons coming together to cheer on their teams, creating a sense of camaraderie that enhances the viewing experience. The pub’s dedication to sports coverage ensures that every thrilling moment is broadcasted, making it an ideal spot to catch the action.

What truly sets The Black Swan apart is its innovative approach to the Six Nations. Drawing inspiration from the competing nations, the culinary team crafts themed burgers that are both imaginative and delectable. Each burger captures the essence of its respective country, offering a unique gastronomic journey that delights the palate. This fusion of sports enthusiasm and culinary creativity elevates the dining experience, making each visit during the tournament uniquely memorable.

The staff at The Black Swan are the epitome of hospitality. Their attentive and friendly service ensures that every guest feels welcomed and valued. While I didn’t catch all their names, their collective effort contributes significantly to the pub’s warm and inviting ambiance.

In summary, The Black Swan in Henley-in-Arden offers an unparalleled experience, especially during the Six Nations. Its harmonious blend of historic ambiance, passionate sports coverage, inventive cuisine, and exceptional service makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and...

This place gets great reviews so clearly they are doing something right, but I was disappointed by the food. We skipped starters, but had a bread and dips to share which was really good, and went straight to mains. As it was a Sunday I had a roast, it was good quality but not a much better than your local pubs carvery for under £20 and plate of your making. There was hardly any gravy, I know you can ask for more, but for a £25 roast that states it comes with gravy on the menu, you would think they would be generous and you wouldn't have to ask. The unlimited roasties and sides were a good addition and the lamb was.. ok. The steak was served quite bloody for a medium, but it was tasty. The pistachio soufflé was a very generous portion and was really good, even if it tasted wholly of almond not pistachio, definitely the highlight of the menu. The bramble was visibly ( and taste wise) lacking in Chambord. Lovely staff and a very pretty interior, but ultimately an...