"Set in the Hertfordshire countryside, this revamped building offers a rustic setting for their exquisite looking menu. We visited early on a Wednesday evening as a special treat for a visiting friend. Ouside it was very busy. Inside was lovely about 1/3 full, cool...and quiet. We entered the building and waited in the narrow bar area to be acknowledged. Staff very busy, rushing by us to serve outside. Felt we were in the way, but nowhere else to stand. We had arrived 20 mins early but our table was ready for us once our booking had been found. The menus were given….and we were told that the 1 of 3 choices of snacks, rustic bread/oil was off the menu. Also, in starters the gazpacho and the potted salmon were off the menu. Went to order pigs cheeks from the remaining 4 options, to then be told only 1 left so two of us had to rethink our choices. We fared better with our mains. The slow roast duck leg was delicious with the star anise jus…but I failed to find the seed crunch that was listed. The roast pork belly was tasty, but, sadly, had been given a serving of mashed potatoes instead of the advertised creamed polenta. Pudding we all 3 had the almond and pear (pear listed but not seen) tart. This is served with just a dessert spoon. Unfortunately, this meant difficulties breaking off pieces to eat as the pastry was so hard. Tasty but shooting over the plate when attempt made to break it. We were informed the reduced menu options were because the weekly menu was due to change the next day. Staff were pleasant but very busy, we were told, because of a staff member leaving plus a large number of ‘walk in’ customers that day. Not great failings but enough to feel disappointed at the experience."
