Cross Keys Tavern, Taunton

This large roadside inn is strategically sited on the junction of two major routes out of Taunton to the West. It has a large car park, and sits comfortably in its own grounds. Inside is well decorated and has exposed beams, carpets and comfortable seating as well as tables laid for diners. There is a basic pub menu, reasonably priced, and the chef tries to be adventurous with his specials board but doesn't quite carry it off. The staff are a weak link – the manager lacks beer knowledge, the young barman is gobby and unhelpful, while the waitress that served us had a superficial charm but didn't 'ooze friendliness', as my octogenarian companion put it. The pub claims all sorts of real ale credentials, including a GBG entry, but my experience puts the merit of these in doubt. Four ales on, I ordered a pint of beer (I shan't embarrass the brewery) which was off. I pointed this out and was told that it was unusual beer and was supposed to taste of vinegar. We chose a meal from the specials board and found the food rather too focused on portion size and novelty value than taste, and overall considered this poor value for money. I do not anticipate coming back within the next decade or so.

The Cross Keys has finally decided what it wants to be; its both a low quality restaurant and good quality pub. I score it 4 for food, 7 for beer.

The Cross Keys has recently installed new management. Although it is the usual Chef and Brewer type steak house and, the new manager always has 4 constantly changing real ales from around the country available. can't quite decide what it wants to be, lower standard restaurant or bettr quality pub.