The Star Inn, Taunton

A Georgian town house which now houses what is probably Taunton's best pub. There is nothing really outside apart from the historic facade, but inside is like an oasis in the cultural desert that is Central Taunton. The ground floor bar has parquet flooring and is pleasantly decorated. It is connected to the upstairs bar, which is carpeted and serves more as a dining room, by a modern iron spiral staircase, anachronistic but somehow apt. Food is excellent, gastro style, a few original twists, but sadly very expensive. One mild annoyance was the pretentious way that crisps were not served in the packet – they were opened and poured into a stainless steel toothmug – why? There were two ales on this visit, Eight Arch Session Ale and New Bristol's Sundowner, both in excellent condition, but it was disappointing to see no real cider. The staff were very welcoming, and it's a really good place to come and eat and/or drink if you have the time and don't mind paying their prices and don't mind the gastro atmosphere.

The best beer selection in the area and possibly the county.