Is this village pub more than just a watering hole?
Food Having eaten at this traditional village pub for a Christmas function a couple of years ago I wanted to return to try its standard menu and I was spoilt for choice. Five us went for lunch before my mum's hen do and before we even sat down we were offered drinks at the bar. Three of us opted for large glasses of wine (one of each colour) and I know measures are meant to be standard but these glasses seemed so full you could swim in them.
Sitting in the section between the main pub and the function room we quickly browsed the lunch menu which had a good choice of smaller dishes and main meals.
Each one of us went for a different dish (which is great for a review) and there were no complaints from anyone at the table.
As a burger fan I opted for the cheese and bacon option which came with fries and coleslaw. The burger was juicy, flavoursome and unlike some I've had in the past it was not cremated but cooked perfectly. The fries were what you would expect but there was a pang of jealousy when the fish and the chicken and leek pie came out with thick hand cut chips. You could tell they were homemade due to oddity in the sizing.
The other mains were a piping hot fish pie, which unusually had carrots in, and a wild mushroom linguine with rocket and parmesan salad. I'm not a mushroom eater but my sister informed me the sauce had a rich flavour and the salad added a nice salty taste and crunchy texture.
Despite having a tea party that evening we couldn't resist dessert. Three of us had the crème brulée, and a chocolate brownie with salted caramel ice cream, and a strawberry and raspberry fool were also brought to the table. All three brulées had a crunchy top and a creamy flavour but they each had a slightly different texture. However the star of the show was the brownie - it was easily the biggest serving of chocolate delight I have ever seen and was completely moreish.
Drinks
The Crown is owned by a wine merchant so add you would expect there was an excellent and affordable wine list alongside the usual pub fare.
Loos
Clean, easy to find and with some interesting art work.
Ambiance
It seemed like a real village pub full of locals and even the odd dog! Interior is modern yet with traditional touches and there is also a large and well designed beer garden out the back overlooking fields as far as you can see.
Price
Very reasonable - the five of us had a couple of drinks and two courses each which came to £27 a head. Light lunches started at £7.50 with main meals from £12.95.
Service
Staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. One of the group was late and the chef had her dish ready when she arrived.
Parking
A big car park out the back with plenty of room.
Location
In the centre of the village and two miles from Attleborough. It will take you just over five minutes to get there once you come off the A11.
Highlight
The wine choice and that brownie!
In summary
The menu has something for everyone and is comfort food with style. And if you don't want to eat, it is the perfect place for a weekend drink.\
This is an independent review
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