Cheema, Sheerness

Previously the Nore Hotel, named after an influential local family, this impressive 1930s building stands in its own grounds with loads of parking space and seems a little out of place in the back streets of Sheerness. A Shepherd and Neame house, it is currently a fusion of Indian restaurant and local pub. The staff were very pleasant and I was made to feel very welcome. The atmosphere was convivial, and staff and customers alike were gathered around the fireplace. Wood paneled walls, a woodburner and a dartboard maintain the pub feel, while the majority of the ground floor is set out as a restaurant. The business is diversifying by running dance and fitness classes with an Indian theme during non-pub hours. There was a large tv screen showing Bollywood-style musical films. It works well, but is Sheerness really ready for it? The only ale on draft was Spitfire which was in OK condition. I wouldn't include on a crawl, but I would quite like to come back for a Ruby.