Clarendon

We tried a mix of the bar bites deal and the loaded fries to share, and the portions were generous and filling. The chicken and chips were crisp without feeling oily, almost like they’d been air fried, and the bang bang Chicken was great too. We sat outside in lovely weather at this tucked-away spot in a quirky part of Leicester.

The atmosphere and service are usually nice here, but closing time was a really unpleasant exception. We were told to leave the garden without any warning, and while we gathered our things the staff switched off the lights. We had to use our phone torches to find our belongings, and the same staff member then had to collect glasses in the dark. It seemed deliberate. Is this what junior staff are told to do? I understand that some customers can be awful, especially after barking orders all evening, but we weren’t behaving that way. Please give people fair warning and a little patience before plunging the garden into darkness 😭😭😭

The Clarendon Inn made hosting a Christmas dinner for 20 students feel really personal. From when I arrived until I left, communication and service were excellent, and nothing felt like too much trouble. The warm pub atmosphere worked well for both group chats and quieter conversations. There was a wide choice of food, all to a high standard. Even with a party that size, everyone’s meals arrived together and there were no mistakes. People kept saying how good it was. I can’t fault the evening and plan to return. Thanks to everyone who helped make it special, especially the bar staff. Hope you all have a good Christmas, and see you in the new year.

I was sitting right in front of the TV and watching the game when a staff member changed the channel before half time, without saying anything first. It left me feeling really disrespected. When I asked at the bar, I was simply told more rugby fans were coming. I know not everyone was there for that match, and that rugby fans may bring in more money that day. Still, someone could have asked me before switching it off. The visit was very disappointing because of how the staff handled it, and I don’t think I’ll come back.