Slad Restaurant Guide

2023 Review: In Gloucestershire’s lovely Slad valley, “Laurie Lee’s local has just gone from strength to strength over the years – although it’s not clear what Laurie Lee would think about it now, as while it’s still all scrubbed tables and good cider, it now also has a talented chef producing high-end pub grub”. “Sometimes the food is exceptional” (it was on Giles Coren’s June 2022 visit) – “service has been varied, but everywhere is struggling with staff… but on the right day, a visit here is magical”.

“Just keeps getting better… it’s gone from derelict petrol station to Airstream caravan selling ice cream to a shop and drive-thru where you can buy very local produce in the shop, and eat excellent rare-breed burgers” – this converted fuel stop was quoted in a 2023 Times article as being the type of local farm store that boosts rural property prices! “Outdoor seating in the meadow is on hand for fine days; there’s a yurt with log burner on cooler days together with a covered area with a fire pit”. “The quality is always excellent and the staff unfailingly friendly, knowledgeable and enthusiastic about what they sell”. “Great coffee and pastries for early mornings… bigger breakfasts are also available”. Top Menu Tip – “The Kentucky Fried Pheasant always goes down well”.

2022 Review: “A great pleasure that this fine old inn was rescued from dereliction pre-pandemic by the Lucky Onion team”, a design-led Cotswolds operation. “Food has improved considerably and is well-sourced and often original”, with a “good ambience” and “charming stuff” ensuring that the establishment “works well all round”.