The Chieftain, Welwyn Garden City

Newish McMullen's pub / restaurant, firmly aimed at the family dining market. After crossing the front patio terrace, you find the lounge area to your left, a larger space with tables laid up for those eating on the right and the bar counter opposite you as you enter. Anonymous semi-modern furniture and faux-traditional decor throughout. Three of four handpumps in operation, with AK, IPA (£2.05, half) and Eight Hop from Rivertown as a guest.

This new build pub has had time to weather in,but it's still essentially an open plan lounge popular with families who want to eat from a value menu with lots of 2 for 1 deals where the cheapest dish is free.The furniture throughout is a mix of modern sofas,square poofs,dining tables and chairs with a corporate feel.Inane muzak is ever present.To the left is a coal affect wood burner,while to the right the space is divided up using a book case.However in one corner there is a darts board,which doesn't seem to get much action.On my lunchtime visit there were a lot of mothers with offspring in prams,and virtually everyone was eating,apart from a single punter at the bar.I expect in good weather the large paved terrace at the front with upmarket outdoor furniture would be a popular drinking spot. There are four handpumps serving McMullens beers, on my trip AK,County,IPA and a seasonal Elixir which despite being clear and crisp,tasted of absolutely nothing,quite an achievement even by Mac standards. The service was however very good,all staff chearful,upbeat and polite and I have to say the food was very good.It may be classic pub grub but certainly not cheap and nasty.The specials of the day are all included in the 2 for 1 promotion,nice touch. IMHO McMullens brew boring beers,so I would swerve around this pub if I wanted an ale session,but I would most certainly use it again for an inexpensive meal when in the area.