The Old Crown

I went to lunch at this pub today. This is a traditional country pub with a central bar, surrounded by comfortable seating and dining areas. Outside is a good sized parking area at the front, and a very large garden with open air seating at the back. This is a warm and welcoming pub run by a young couple, Bex and Ian Street. Bex manages the bar and restaurant, while all the food on the menu is freshly prepared by Ian, who is an accomplished chef. The sole I ordered was cooked to perfection with a light and crispy batter. The chips were perfect too, and the peas puree was fresh and tasty. I pushed the boat out, and ordered banoffee pie for my sweet course, and I can say quite honestly that this was the tastiest and lightest banoffee I've ever eaten. And presentation scored 11 out of 10! Nice touches include a welcome sign at the turning into the front entrance, and a table inside the door with newspapers for customers to enjoy. Combined with a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, and food that not only tastes beautiful but looks beautiful too, I can't recommend it highly enough. If you're a new visitor to the area, and are looking for something interesting to do before or after lunch, Stoke Bruerne is literally just up the road from here, on the Grand Union Canal. There is a Canal Museum, or you can take a ride on a canal boat or just walk along the towpath.