Dysarts Arms, Mossley — Restaurant in Tameside

The Dysarts, the jewel of the local pub scene, where you walk in for a pint and leave with a culinary epiphany. Let’s talk about the food first. You’ve got the kind of pub grub that makes you question all your previous life choices. “What have I been eating all these years?” is a thought that crosses your mind as you take your first bite of their legendary pie. It’s as if they took Shakespeare’s wisdom—“If music be the food of love, play on”—and said, “Nah, let’s make that food instead.”

The chips are crispier than your nan’s sense of humour after a sherry or two, and the braised steak? Well, it’s more tender than a 90s ballad. Don’t even get me started on the sticky toffee pudding, which might just be the real reason people make the pilgrimage to The Dysarts. Forget your Michelin stars, I’d bet even Heston Blumenthal would be left weeping into his molecular foam after a mouthful of this beauty.

And then there’s Kyle. The man, the myth, the barman. If pubs had spirit animals, Kyle would be theirs. He’s got that supernatural ability to pour a perfect pint while making you feel like you’re the most interesting person in the room—even though you’ve just told him the same story about your dog for the fourth time. He remembers your order, your name, your birthday, and probably even the name of your childhood pet. Kyle’s customer service is the kind that would make Mary Poppins look like an amateur. He’s not just pulling pints; he’s pulling people together in a vortex of good vibes and smooth banter. In fact, his charm is so potent, I’m convinced if he ever ran for PM, the opposition would just hand him the keys to No 10.

It’s the small touches too—like when Kyle hands you your drink with a wink that says, “Life’s hard, mate, but not as hard as pulling that perfect Guinness head, and look, I nailed it.” There’s always the right amount of froth, no arguments. And if you ask for something fancy like an Aperol Spritz (don’t), he’ll do it with a smirk that somehow lets you off the hook for your questionable life decisions.

Many other staff are equally as fabulous, Nat and Claire to name a few.

A special mention goes out to Rocky, the culinary wizard behind The Dysarts' kitchen magic. You know that scene in The Matrix where Neo finally “sees” the code? That’s Rocky with pub food. She doesn’t just cook; she orchestrates. She’s the kind of chef who could turn a Pot Noodle into haute cuisine that would make Gordon Ramsay weep if she fancied.

The name Rocky fits, because her food packs a punch. But don’t let that fool you—her dishes are as subtle and layered as a Christopher Nolan film. You think you’re just biting into a burger, and suddenly you’re questioning your whole existence. She has the uncanny ability to make comfort food feel like a warm hug from your favourite relative (the one who actually likes you).

Rocky’s in the kitchen like a general commanding her troops—potatoes are crisped with precision, pies are golden with a purpose, and sauces are stirred with the care you’d expect from someone whose nickname could equally apply to a boxer. And her timing? Impeccable. She could deliver a Sunday roast to your table with military precision, and still manage to crack a joke from the pass. She’s not just cooking; she’s crafting a meal you’ll be telling your grandkids about.

In short, with Kyle at the bar and Rocky in the kitchen, The Dysarts isn’t just a pub—it’s a pub with swagger, a place where food and drink meet in glorious harmony and leave you wondering why you’d ever eat anywhere else.

So if you’re in Mossley and you’re not at The Dysarts, honestly, what are...

Called today around 3pm to book a table for Sunday lunch. The lady I spoke to asked my name and confirmed a table for two at 6pm.

We arrived a little early, and mentioned before ordering our drinks that we had a table booked at 6pm.

The young lady we spoke advised she couldn't find my name on the list of bookings, claiming we must have booked online with another establishment!

After correcting her, showing the number I called to make the booking, she claimed 'Well you can't have spoken to me, as I would have told you were fully booked'.

Though I was loathe to do so, I asked to speak to a manager as I was finding the ladies manner rather irksome. I was told that there was no manager available, before leaving in a rather frustrated mood.

Shame really. I've enjoyed the food and service here on a couple of occasions (hence my reluctance to post a one star review!). I also understand mistakes happen, but it's the 'customer is always wrong' attitude from the member of staff concerned that will make me reconsider visiting the...

We often visit and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and high quality pub food.

The staff are incredibly personable and welcoming and went out of their way to make our meal as enjoyable as possible.

The last few times we visited the barman was a young lad called Kyle. He was an amazing host and a standout amongst the other staff.

He knew the menu inside out and was able to make recommendations and answer questions surrounding particular dietary requirements. Alongside this he was bubbly, full of life and generally everything you could ask of a barman / waiter.

He’s was a fun character who was able to engage conversation whilst balancing the other customers.

I have worked in bars and provided table service, I was very impressed at how attentive he was to the bar, tables, and is how very customer focused he was.

When we visit we look forward to seeing him and the high level of customer service is why we keep...