The Ship Inn, Seaton

Bit of a mixed bag really - but I do appreciate the issues that hospitality are having with staff shortages etc. We went for a family meal - and I have to say the food was fantastic. Varied and large menu, great food and the wait on a Saturday night was what you would expect. The beer wasn't quite as good. There was a choice of three and the Branoc Bitter from Branscombe Brewery seeming most suited to my palate. Nothing much going on condition or taste wise but I've certainly had worse. When it slipped up was with Service - the girls were run ragged and getting a second drinks order, ordering other courses or paying the bill was a real challenge. Other people were complaining heavily and the dining room had that "sinking ship" feeling of people not quite enjoying themselves as much as they should. After a 30 min wait to pay - we went to the bar where apologies were given and explanations were made about how staff have moved on to new careers. We fully understand.