The Robin Hood - Uttoxeter

I have been to this pub many times over the years as it's local and friends seem to rate it. There is nothing particularly wrong with The Robin Hood but it is so average it almost pains me because I want so much to like it. Drinks selection is woeful cheap wine (Jack Rabbits! and no speciality gins. Food is plentiful but poorly presented most dishes are absolutely swimming in sauce or gravy, veg is overcooked and watery. There are no vegetarian options on the Sunday lunch menu either (although, I assume there would be one if you asked but in this day and age who on earth doesn't offer a veggie option as standard?! The saving grace was the staff who were all lovely and really attentive. This place seriously lacks any kind of finesse, I seem to be in the minority here as the pub is always full but, for me, 3 stars is being extremely generous!

As Uttoxeter is technically my hometown (my mum and dad moved here whilst I was at uni), It can be a place that can sometimes be a little more tricky to find good food. A short drive out of Uttoxeter, and you'll find down a little country road, a little country pub. It is everything you want a country pub to be, cosy but with room for groups, traditional but newly decorated, friendly but not overbearing, it really does tick all of the boxes for me. I've visited 3 times now, and every single time I've mentally reviewed 5 Stars, there really is nothing to fault. The staff here are all efficient little worker bees, scurrying around to tend to the many customers that regularly visit. There is a separated bar and restaurant area, but food can still be ordered next to the real log burning fire in the bar which is such a treat in the winter months. The food is superb, and I'd especially recommend the steaks. Cooked to perfection every single time, with lean, beautiful cuts from the local butchers, Sergeants. Not only are the steaks some of the best I've had in this country, but with the option of chips or salad, ALWAYS go for the chips! They are heavenly! Proper homemade thick cut chips that are perfect for mopping up the juice of a scrummy steak. Not only is the food and service here fabulous, but we are always surprised at the value. My lovely Dad paid for the three of us, and said it was only a few pounds more expensive than the Frankie and Benny's we'd had the previous week... And trust me when I say there is absolutely no competition in the two! The Robin Hood isn't robbing from anybody anymore, rich or poor.