Dukes Head

Visited August 2009

The Dukes Head, on the outskirts of Romsey, is an old established pub dating back to the 16th century. The old world charm of low ceilings, oak beams and cosy corners for wining and dining (not forgetting the real ales on tap) all add to the ambience. There is a spacious garden for al fresco dining.

Karen from the Rockingham Arms in West Wellow opened this her second pub a few months ago and after my third visit to this venue we decided to get together and do a review so you can share our opinion of a well run, fine food pub. The menu has a good selection to suit all tastes with a variety of fish dishes. There is a daily board of chefs fish specials.

When we arrived we had a warm welcome from the barman and all the staff proved to be both friendly and knowledgeable about the menu. We only had a G & T each as we were all driving but enjoyed this whilst we were making our choices.

The first two choices from the specials board were Crévettes served hot in garlic butter, wish I'd had them as a main course as they were amazing, and Seared Scallops with roast tomato salsa and parmesan also delicious. (It is possible to have both the crévettes and the scallops as a main course). Last choice, from the lunchtime menu, the beautifully presented Antipasti - selection of cured meats, olives, pickles & fig chutney.

Our mains: Smoked Haddock & watercress risotto topped with poached egg (a daily special), Baked Crab pot topped with a citrus crust, crisp salad & bread and also from the specials board, whole grilled Torbay Sole served with new potatoes and vegetables; these were an unusual combination of cabbage & marrow, very nice. We all enjoyed our choices but the sole was the winner.

All the dishes were well presented and adequate servings. We were so satisfied with our starters and main courses we opted out of sampling the desserts but did notice there were some good treats in store - the treacle tart looked wonderful! We finished with coffees in the garden. Excellent food, cant wait to go back for more crévettes!

Cost: £ £ £ £ £

Quality of food 4/5

Variety of menu 4/5

Staff & Service 4/5

Ambience, setting and decor 3/5

Value for money 4/5

Total Yummy Factor 19/25

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5/5 = Cannot be improved upon, 4/5 = Very good, 3/5 = Good, 2/5 = Satisfactory, 1/5 = Poor, 0/5 = Terrible