The pub restaurant has a light, ultra-modern interior and on Friday lunchtime there were just enough people there to make it lively and vibrant –– but not too many to leave the staff rushed off their feet.

After ordering drinks at the bar, we sat down and studied the menu which offered a good range of starters, mains, light snacks and desserts.

For the starter, I opted for the soup of the day (£2.95) –– which turned out to be mushroom –– while my dining companion chose the homemade fish cakes (£3.70).

Both plates arrived quickly and the food, which was very well-presented, was just enough to keep us going until the main course.

The main courses generally consisted of pasta, salad, sandwiches as well as more substantial dishes such as fish and meat.

Eventually, I settled on the beef and horseradish baguette served with a small side salad (£4.20) –– which came with a generous portion of beef and made me think it had been a mistake to order the extra portion of chips.

The baguette was very enjoyable, although the beef was a little overdone for my liking.

My companion picked the chicken caesar salad (£5.25), which also came with a generous portion of chicken.

By the time it came to dessert, we were too full to enjoy what was on offer but there was an ample selection available which I have been assured is very good indeed.

Andwhynot offers above average pub food in a relaxed environment, and the thing which stands out for me was the excellent service which sadly is very rare in many eateries.

The staff knew what they were doing and were very discreet, efficient but also friendly.

• For more details contact Mansfield 633330.

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