Covered Wagon, Birmingham

Substantial 1970s? food-led pub now with an Indian menu. Refurbished and partly opened-out L-shaped layout of various dining areas, although there is still some general seating by the entrance and out on the front patio. I was pleasantly surprised to still find cask ale on one of three handpumps, until I was told that my pint of Landlord cost £6.00. It did thankfully prove to be in great shape, but I still felt aggrieved that Guinness (for example) cost £4.90.

This is a modern estate pub, now a Sizzling pub/eatery, with patio areas. It is a low-level pub, and has a little more aesthetic quality than most places of its generation. It is in white with a covered entrance. The interior has a large L-shaped, open-plan room. It has a small bar area at one end with pool and darts. The rest of the place is given over to dining and is in the usual mixed colured decor; mustard, red, green, brown, white etc. The kid's grabbing machine is there, as well as a few bits of tacky vasey stuff and arty pictures. There is a TV (silent) and the music was general and a decent level. The service was fine and a few mature people were in. The fireplace, with fire, was a welcome feature, otherwise it is a bit soulless. Beer; usual tap stuff with a tasteless Pedigree and Brew XI on handpull. One for the diners, i think.