The Talbot - North Dorset

A curious place not sure if its identity inside tables had white linen cloths over dark wood tables Very limited bar menu I think because it was a Monday We didn’t want to drive on so ordered something and chips (scampi I think) Sat in the outside courtyard slightly tatty again with a bit of identity crisis hippy, upcycled, garish flowers in pots, dogs bones on floor, unconcealed delivery baskets etc etc dirty laundry on floor on way to loos Food was hot and plentiful no garnish obviously straight from the freezer Curioser and curioser linen napkins and ‘silver’ napkin rings accompanied the plates The young lady serving was polite, helpful and well presented Would not return unless had no other choice

I was staying in the village and visited the pub a few times for drinks and meals. The staff were really friendly, the beer was good and the pub was nice enough inside and out. Foodwise there's not a lot of choice and what you get isn't going to blow you away but it's plentiful and reasonably priced. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat there but it's more than good enough if you are in the village or passing by.

Tried it today only to find the chef had been taken seriously ill. The staff managed to produce a fair meal. Good choice of ale. Wheelchair access is reasonable. Still work to be done on the refurbishment. Maybe the new firm should have finished the refurbishment before opening.

Management and staff outstandingly friendly,place is spotless and dog friendly, the food is absolutely fabulous. Best pub food we have ever eaten Mark and Angela.

Great to see this place bustling once more under new ownership and leadership of Gareth : Food now available once more but was a mixed experience unfortunately. Half of our party had great food but my wife and I opted for just a portion of chips with cheese which were very very overcooked refried? and extrmely greasy; suspect they were recooked and in something that had also seen animal being cooked in the same oil as we were both unwell overnight, not being used to animal fats and proteins having been pescetarians for 20+ years. : Still, nice to see the place a lively joint once more; next time we will be a little more choosey and questioning if we decide to eat!