Pub review | The Star, Ingatestone

As I mentioned in one of my previous posts, I booked a Friday off work and treated my mum to lunch. After some research and recommendations from work colleagues, she decided we should go to The Star at Ingatestone. It’s a really lovely village only about 10 minutes from us and I decided to drive. I had never been there before, but I’d heard it used to have a reputation as a ‘rough’ place. I’m pleased to say it has clearly undergone a transformation and we had a thoroughly enjoyable lunch.

The interior is so cosy and traditional pub: wooden beams, low ceilings and an open fire. The bar area is really open with tables for two and four set up, as well as seating at the bar. There’s also a snug area with tables, which is where we had planned on sitting – but there was no room, it was a busy Friday afternoon.

Ellen, who served us behind the bar, was friendly and accommodating. After placing our drinks order, she passed us some menus and said she would come and serve us. I’m used to having to order at the bar in pubs, so this was a really nice touch, especially considering how busy it was. We sat directly next to the bar, where the atmosphere was lively – but we were still able to hold a conversation.

At lunch time, you have a choice of menus: the main menu and the lunch menu with sandwiches, starter portions and light bites. Both mum and I chose from the deep-fill sandwich section – is there honestly anything better than a proper pub sandwich? I don’t think so. Each is served with a side salad and you have the option of white, granary or ciabatta bread. Mum chose the chicken & creamy coleslaw ciabatta, which was huge. The ciabatta was freshly baked and the chicken was also warm. I decided to try the tuna, red onion & mixed peppers sandwich on granary. It was packed with filling and so lovely. The bread was so soft and thickly sliced. We were also given the option of adding chips to our order, but the sandwiches were sufficient enough.

The food was reasonably priced and considering the real lack of decent pubs around Brentwood, I would thoroughly recommend The Star if you’re in the area, or even as far as Chelmsford. I’d love to return for lunch, maybe even on a Sunday. On Monday, they also run a quiz and curry night for £5 per person – a bit of fun. Plus it’s really nice walking around the village afterwards, particularly on a nice day.

Love, Lucy xx

The Star - 45 High Street Ingatestone, Essex CM4 9DU

Trip Advisor

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