The Crown, Sutton Coldfield

A smart looking large detached, corner, mock-Jacobean M&B Ember Inn pub/eatery, with a white painted Dutch gable and dormer windows and patio area. The interior is that of many an Ember Inn - a chain that cant really be accused of individuality. It is open plan, with little areas, in an L-shape around the bar. Whilst most of the area is given over to food, there is a small comfy lounge, where there is the wine display, silent Sky Sports news on the TV and a fireplace. The decor is generally white, cream and red - i think there was a wallpapered odd wall at the back. The usual copius amounts of arty pictures, sculptures and chopped logs decorate the place and as such, i moved to the patio area. The service here was fine, when you got it, as it was busy with a good mixed crowd - so i am fully aware that i am in the minority towards my feelings on Ember! Beer; usual tap stuff, with Peroni. On handpull there were Batemans Daddy's Little Fella, Purity Ubu, Brew XI, Deuchars IPA and Thwaites Tale Wagger. I find Ember beer a bit up and down, so tried a half of the Thwaites and it was on top form A nice exterior - but the continual replication by M&B of their pub interiors is a source of irritation to me, Ember being the worst. But, for those of you that like Embers, or are not bothered about such things, I a am pleased to say there is a good choice of beer here and high hopes that they can keep it, unlike some other Embers.