"Havng visited my son and daughter-in-law in Andover recently he booked The Boot as his choice of restaurant to celebrate his birthday. We were greeted by a lovely barman who saw to our drinks and very quickly we were shown to our table as the...reception for bookings and diners is adjacent to the bar. Furbished well and up-to-date with decor and seating that is a mishmash of different tables and chairs, which seams to be the in thing. We were given a well polished oval table very near a back exit door which to where it led i have no idea as we dined in the evening and it was dark. As a party of six this table allowed plenty of elbow room in which to comfortably eat. The shape of the table ideal to be able to converse with everyone which is always nice. The waitress was prompt with menus which are truly extensive with the addition to specials on boards mounted on the walls for everyone to see easily wherever you may be seated (more than one board). Needless to say we all took a time to choose. We all had starters, deep fried brie, soup, prawn cocktail and sissled king prawns in garlic with choritzo X All served more or less together which allowed us all to start at the same time. Each and every dish well presented, generous and enjoyed by all. For main dishes we had, belly pork with crackling, texas steak, lamb shank x pasta, and the most enourmous mixed grill i have ever seen in my life. Unfortunately my son would not allow me to photograph it, had to be seen to be believed. Again good presentation arriving in stages this time but with very little time to wait. We were asked if all was ok a short time after starting which i actually like, i feel this is a nice personal touch rather than here is your food i am off now Although they had a wonderful selection of desserts we honestly could not manage another mouthful, you know when you are sensibly full. I had a french coffee and my husband an ordinary coffe rather than more alcohol!!!! The reason for my title is that two table away from us Craig Revel Horwood was dining with what appeared to be a partner and what we thought we heard was his Mother and another guest for her birthday. Although a celebrity i can honestly say every diner that evening was treated exactly the same apart from the Chef coming to the table for a chat. Can live with that and the darlings heard more than once obviously. On paying at the desk on exit we meet the lady owner and her great loving puppy dog, to whom was only allowed out after talking to her, The Boot was more or less empty when we left. So if you like big dogs, be sure to cuddle this big softie he is so adorable. If in Andover and you do not want to be let down by going somewhere to dine i so highly recommend this characterful place to eat and drink. All in all a fantastic experience. This Landlady has so got it right, long may she continue."
