The Anchor Hotel

We left without trying the food after waiting a long time, and nobody apologized. The menu looked excellent, with plenty of local options, which made that especially disappointing. We only came for lunch and did not stay overnight. There was just one occupied table when we arrived, so we thought it would be an easy stop. After we sat down, the barmaid asked whether we had booked. We hadn’t, and there were lots of empty tables, so it was unclear where we were meant to sit. She checked and told us our table was free for the next few hours. It would have helped to have a sign asking people to wait to be seated or reserved markers on the tables. Our cold drinks came quickly, but then we waited and waited. Staff seemed caught up in a disagreement about who should take the other table’s order, until the chef came out and told the waitresses to get their food order. We were the only other customers there, yet the staff appeared overwhelmed and focused entirely on that table. I heard the chef call them judges, which left me feeling that a title might be needed to get proper attention. For a small group booking, the owners should let other diners know if service will take longer than usual, and make it clear which tables are reserved. It was a very rude experience, and we won’t return.

There was a decent choice of beer and snacks when we popped in for drinks. The service felt a bit odd, though.

The seafood pasta and beer-battered lobster tail were what I ordered this time, and both really hit the spot. I’d highly recommend coming here for seafood worked into everyday dishes. This little Inn in Johnshaven is a real find, with delicious food and a good range of beers. It’s dog friendly too, and there’s a quaint beer garden tucked around the side.

Friendly staff and a nice place, and I’d stay again. Just keep expectations modest: my room was tiny and the soundproofing wasn’t good.