The Red Lion

We were nearby for an event and needed something to eat, with a curry house and a fish and chip shop as the other options. I had the prawn tempura, which was really nice, and medium-rare rump with chips, onion rings and tomatoes. I added ketchup myself, but the tempura needed nothing. The desserts looked great, though I was trying to resist.

The Lion's reopened in Newent and has been refurbished with good taste. We stopped in for coffee and got a warm welcome. The menu looked appealing, with plenty of starters, mains and other choices. I'd definitely come back for a meal.

The young server was pleasant, but seemed to take our complaint personally and didn't know how to handle customer feedback. I felt judged for speaking up, even though I've never been one to complain. The food was poor quality, some of it cold, and the portions were served on plates like metal dog bowls. We felt ripped off, and the photos on the website don't reflect the food's true value. It was awful, and a bad first visit.

So pleased The Lion is back as somewhere to go for dinner or a drink. The staff are really friendly, the service is great, and the food is excellent. We'd definitely recommend it and will be back.