Maybe it was the dreichness of the day, and maybe they meant a culinary revamp, but the impression given was of tiredness rather than refurbishment. The decor round the central gantry looked a bit faded Palm Court style with its wooden floors, flock wallpaper and chandeliers though a bit of sunshine may have changed the impression.
We had a nice window table and were served promptly by the very pleasant waitress. Too early for wine, we opted for water and chose from the lunch menu, whose modesty augured well. It included a soup and a pie of the day, which was steak, mushroom and Guinness. From this we chose said pie, and the fish and chips.
The food appeared in good time, but not so quick as would ready-made, so a good sign!
My companion relished the pie that looked tasty with its mash and selection of vegetables, though a bit lacking in the gravy department. I’m sure hand cut chips were on offer on the menu to go with the coley and I would have preferred them to the ‘straw chips’ that came with the fresh salad, lemon and tartare sauce.
We skipped dessert but enjoyed delicious coffee served with a complimentary biscuit. The prices for our lunch were moderate (just under £17) but in these days of high competition, a set menu price is a bonus to diners and an incentive to return. There is a dinner menu when last orders are 9pm.
The Reverie is a venue for live music and offers a wide range of wines and malts. They do a Scottish night every Tuesday from June to September that comprises a 4 course meal, 4 whisky tastings and live folk music for £35 per head. It’s a fine place to be if you’re in the area.