Guest post from Richard of Volumes from Verulamium.

To the Portland Arms on Thursday with Sarah; it was a nice summer evening, we were out for a walk and fancied dinner out.

We used to live about five minutes walk from the Portland Arms.  At the end of March it changed ownership (the Camra magazine telling us it is now run by Sara Dale – her first pub) but we were somewhat busy with moving house spending our evenings packing boxes and the like and never made it down to try out their fare.  We’re a little further away now but, as we we’d popped round to some friends quickly we thought we’d come back this way and see what it was like.  Previously an award-winning pub, would it live up to its former reputation?

A friendly “hello” welcomed us to the pub as soon as we walked in.  The menu had a good range of choices. I plumped for the burger which was very tasty if decidedly unvegetarian – handmade from local Hedges Farm beef which was very tasty and juicy, topped with caramelised onions in a ciabata bun – far better than the somewhat insipid buns some pubs serve.  Sarah chose the butternut squash risotto which she found delicious and filling; this was presented attractively with a parmesan crisp.  Whilst waiting for the food we had a drink – I can recommend the beer as well kept – and introduced ourselves to Buster the labradoodle who probably thinks he runs the pub himself.  Buster has his own blog here.

After finishing our main courses we were tempted by the desert menu.  £4.50 got us a huge portion of homemade apple and raspberry crumble with ice cream (Sarah) and custard (me) which was truly delicious.

The two of us headed full but happy up the hill back home, sure we’d be back again soon.  Recommended.

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