Been here many times so the Venus was an assured go to. Sadly our family birthday lunch of 10, was pretty miserable today. There was a Christmas menu on but no crackers on the table, OK I can get past that even though the menu was pricey and we are 7 days away from Christmas. Music bass was loud and faulty so sounded like a boy racer had rocked up outside. Quite a few patrons looked unimpressed. Staff looked like they didn't want to be there no one was really that attentive. No one came up to ask us if our meals were alright. What I can't do is get over is how shocking our roast meal was. The veg was disgusting. Some of us had roast beef - just a slice and a bit roast beef. The only nice bit was the 2 roast potatoes on my plate. Not a hearty delicious feast we have enjoyed here for many years. A pathetic offering sadly, for which I could also pass by and never return however for £17.00 for a roast beef in comparison to other pub roasts around, we felt ripped off and were pretty annoyed. Thankfully we just ordered a main. As it was a birthday we kept a low profile on this so as not to end on a negative. But you've just lost a few customers for being so greedy.
Booked a table for lunch without knowing anything about the pub. Great decision. Food was outstanding. Drinks were also excellent. Pub was busy but staff were very nice. More expensive than your typical pub but well worth it. Highly recommended.
The best meal I have ever had in my life here (duo of lamb) absolutely incredible Everything was perfect, the staff were amazing - wish we had a black Venus closer to home!!
Very disappointed. Had heard a lot of good things but it just misses the mark. Firstly, the table I was seated at had not been wiped down from the previous customers, then I ordered at the bar as the table service was taking too long. The food is presented well and the main duck dish had a wonderful fusion of duck, cherries and kale. A fantastic concoction! Unfortunately, the dishes are HEAVILY over-seasoned and all I could taste was the salt. This, along with the cleanliness and slow service, turned what could have been a 5 star review into a 2. The staff that were spoken to were kind and courteous, just didn't get to the table to take my order. On another day, I'm sure this establishment can deliver a knock-out meal but I won't be returning any time soon to find out.
So.... I'd like to give this place the worst review ever, just to keep it quiet and make sure nothing changes. However I can't! It was simply excellent! The meet and greet was spot on, very nice hello and welcome, happy e help with trying the local seasonal beers , which were in my opinion award worthy! Then there was the food! Local seasonal excellent! I had a fabulous chestnut soup, wonderful flavours and a real treat. Then the venison and mushroom pie, again really meaty and full of distinct flavours. The rest of my part only reported positively on all the starters and main courses, and sounds silly, but the chips! Wow the chips. So all in all if your looking for a proper Exmoor experience, put this stop on the list, lunch or dinner or just beers! We will return! Hopefully to the same place, and not over run and hard to get in following my review! Enjoy!
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Parracombe, Barnstaple, EX31
4.6/5
Kentisbury, Barnstaple, EX31
4.1/5
Lynton, Devon, EX35
4.5/5
Newly referbished, family run, child and dog friendly pub and hotel in the beautiful area of Lynton, North Devon.
