The Vic, Ossett

Another Ossett outlet which acts as a ‘foodie’ counterpoint to the nearby Tap. The interior has been completely gutted and refurbished in a very contemporary ‘clean but rustic’ style with plenty of undressed sandblasted stone and brick walls, modern banquette seating (topped with a snaking collection of old bottled ales), slate flooring and some interesting animal heads crafted from old brass utensils housed in specially-made recesses. A double brick archway serves to separate the bar from the main drinking room and a three quarter length wall separates that from the rear pool room. Further back are dedicated dining areas. There were black and white prints of old Ossett adorning the walls as well as a restrained selection of brewerania, though the oh-so witty drinking quotes I could have done without. The ceiling of the right hand bar has a very impressive plaster moulding. Beer-wise, a large Ossett range was available alongside a couple of guests plus Fullers Pride; eight in all. The couple I sampled were in good shape. Food is pushed here, with a £5 ‘pint and pie’ deal catching my eye. Overall this is all very well done but lacks the intrinsic charm of a ‘lived-in’ pub though I imagine that will come, especially as I spied a wood-burning stove which should get a nice sooty vibe infused. If you’re out this way to sample the Brewer’s Pride, leave a bit of space for this one too.