The Merry Monk, Taunton

Refurbished earlier this year, the Merry Monk is a large food-led roadside pub in the outskirts of Taunton, more roadside diner than village local. There is a good sized car park, a paved terrace and a lawned garden with a few wooden benches and a children's play area. The original building has been extended to accommodate a large dining area which is now open plan with the bar. The latter is on two levels, while the lack of intimacy makes it less than cosy. The food is the standard pub/diner fare, plus a carvery that looked good and was certainly very popular. The main clientele seemed to be families and elderly diners, though there were one or two locals in; the latter were not particularly welcoming. Ales on were Doombar, Dartmoor No 7, Exmoor Gold and one from Sunset Brewery, plus Stan’s Cider on draft. The ale was in OK condition, but the pub was lacking in atmosphere and not a great place to spend convivial time. Fine for a cheap lunch though.

Official site of the Merry Monk, contains menu - www.themerrymonk.co.uk

Official site of the Merry Monk, contains menu - www.themerrymonk.co.uk