The Bear Hotel, Crickhowell

The Welsh beef and ale pie and my wife’s faggots and peas both tasted homemade and were delicious. My pint of Timothy Taylor was excellent too. It was a busy midweek lunch in mid-December, but the bar manager found us a restaurant table straight away. We got quick, professional service from friendly staff. My wife can’t have dairy, so we asked for an oat milk hot chocolate. The manager wasn’t sure they had oat milk, but managed to find some, and she loved it. Good choice on the menu. We’ll definitely come back.

The salt & pepper squid and Welsh lamb faggots in onion gravy were especially good. The food was hot, nicely seasoned, and served with a sensible gap between courses. Portions were just right, and there was plenty of choice, including specials. The staff were friendly and the service excellent. Couldn’t fault our meal at The Bear tonight. Highly recommend it.

Lunch at The Bear Hotel is always a pleasure. The dishes have been delicious, and there’s a nice range to choose from. Prices are a little higher than at a pub, but I feel the quality makes them worthwhile. It’s cosy, and we’re always greeted warmly. I’d definitely recommend a visit.

We came for lunch, so I can’t speak to the hotel. We tried mussels, calamari, a haddock sandwich, and slow-cooked rib, and all of it was very good. The food was quality and reasonably priced. Service was excellent, and I couldn’t fault the meal.