Red Squirrel, Stevenston by Marston's Inns

We paid £61 for two meals, a pudding, a coffee and half a lager, and it didn't feel like value for money. The main course still hadn't arrived 25 minutes after we'd finished our starter. It was Friday at 8:30 and the place was practically empty, which I could understand. I'd been before, but won't return. It hasn't improved and may even have got worse. I'd booked last minute because I live locally. We were greeted, shown to a table, and told to order at the bar. I used the app to order and pay instead, then had to ask for our sticky table to be cleaned. At the bar I found out they don't serve Bitter, and the coffee machine was cleaning itself and would take ten minutes. That was fine, but when I paid by card, the first prompt asked if I wanted to add a gratuity, with several percentages suggested before we'd had any food or drink. I said no. When the young man brought the starter, he looked unkempt, with long dirty nails and scraggly long hair. I'd say avoid at all costs.

Dinner was really nice, and Gerard, Erin and the rest of the staff were friendly and informative. The pub and restaurant were just as clean as on our first visit, and we loved the focus on dogs. We got the same room again, which was very clean, with a comfy bed. There are takeaway places within walking distance, and we enjoyed breakfast too. This will be a regular little night away for us.

We all enjoyed a really nice afternoon, with excellent food and service. Amelia was incredibly friendly and professional, and did everything she could for us, even with our very picky eaters. Thanks as well to Mia and Liam in the kitchen. We all chose different burgers and every one was really tasty. Their katsu sauce is the best I've ever had. We couldn't recommend the Red Squirrel more for tasty food and great service.

Our room was clean and well equipped, and the facilities were spotless. Gerard was super friendly when we ordered food and drinks, and the service was exceptional. We'd definitely stay here again.