The Plume of Feathers by Neil Morrissey

I recently visited Neil Morrissey’s pub in Barlaston, near Stoke on Trent, and I must say, it was an experience worth sharing. Neil was the voice of Bob the Builder and had roles in Boon and the iconic, Men Behaving Badly!

Stepping inside, I was instantly greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, filled with the buzz of conversations and laughter. The lack of background music allowed the sounds of joy to resonate throughout the pub and makes it much easier for me to film!

As I settled in, I was impressed by the friendly staff, who were more than happy to assist with any questions. One highlight was discovering Neil Morrissey’s own beer, Morrissey Gold. Knowing that all the dishes are home-made and crafted from fresh, local ingredients made me even more excited to explore the menu. I found starters ranging from £6 to £8, with main courses priced at £16.50, featuring a delightful selection of pub classics and chef’s specials.

I decided to kick off my meal with the Puducherry Scotch egg. This was no ordinary Scotch egg; it featured a soft-boiled egg wrapped in curry-spiced smoked haddock, deep-fried to perfection in panko breadcrumbs. Served alongside black pudding, coriander chutney, and spiced pickled red onions, it was a feast for the senses. The presentation was stunning, and the unique flavour combination was a real treat. The curry-spiced haddock added a delightful twist, while the black pudding was thick and full of rich flavour. The coriander chutney brought an intense heat that elevated the entire dish, making it a fantastic start to my meal.

For my main course, I opted for the 10-ounce cider-braised gammon, which was finished in the oven with maple cider butter. Served with triple-cooked chips, a free-range egg, home-made gooseberry ketchup, whole grain mustard and maple dressing, and beautifully charred carrots, this dish was a true masterpiece. The gammon was incredibly tender, infused with a sweet maple flavour that danced on my palate. The free-range egg had a perfect golden yolk, and the carrots, with their charred edges, complemented the dish beautifully.

Overall, my dining experience at Neil Morrissey’s pub was outstanding. The combination of high-quality food, attentive service, and the welcoming atmosphere made for a memorable visit. I felt the prices offered great value for money, and I happily left a tip, even though there was no service charge. If you’re looking for a place to enjoy delicious home-made dishes in a friendly environment, I highly recommend Neil Morrissey’s pub. I can’t wait to return!

No men behaving badly here.