THE thought of sampling Kendal’s newest culinary experience helped me through another hectic day at work.

I and a colleague excitedly made our way to Romneys, which opened in September on the site of the former Kendal Arms.

Romneys strives to fill a gap in the market through its daily carvery.

For a generation of Kendalians, its arrival must be like taking a step back in time after a gastro-pub of the same name drew regular customers decades ago.

On arrival, it was clear that the new management had conducted a top-to-bottom refurbishment, inside and out.

The stylish renovations include quirky features such as a ‘naughty corner’ and a small door for ‘little uns’ leading to the new undercover play area.

We thought that if the food was as good as the decor, we would be impressed. And we were.

I would, however, recommend booking ahead because, for those that arrive before 6.30pm but do not fancy eating the carvery option, you face a potentially-long wait before you can choose from the evening a la carte menu.

After our 45-minute wait, we cast our eyes over the menu and, although the choice of starters available was tempting, we decided to just go for a main course each.

Our choices were steak and ale pie, served with either mashed potatoes or chips, and vegetables and haddock fillet and chips with mushy peas and tartar sauce.

The steak and ale pie included lots of meat, was very tender and made with Bluebird ale from Coniston.

The pastry was flaky and buttery and the dish was very filling. The haddock and chips tasted beautiful. The batter around the fish was light and tasty. And with the home-made tartar sauce and triple-cooked chips, this dish oozed freshness. My plate was clean.

Had we room for dessert, chocolate fudge cake and knickerbocker glory would have been welcomed from the mouth-watering sweets selection.

Staff were very friendly, but there was a long gap between ordering and receiving drinks.

So, was the experience at the new Romneys worth all the hype? I would say so.

The food, the renovations and the staff are all spot on.

Another visit beckons soon.

Total cost of meal: £19.90 for two main courses (drinks excluded).

VERDICT

  • Food: 8
  • Service: 7
  • Atmosphere: 9
  • Value: 7