Tap Steakhouse, Stafford

A decent enough pub that according to the banner outside is about to be refurbished. At this point in time it has 8 handpumps of which only 2 were on.

A large detached half brick and half black/white timber framed pub with mock Tudor stone window frames. The interior is an L-shape around the bar that is to the right on entry. The decor is a chocolate colour with white and wood panel, however, there is a side area, in blue, with a pool table. There is an undressed brick fireplace and general prints on the walls, making the place feel traditional enough. The service was fine, even when i had to return drinks and the several people in were all locals clustered around the bar and there was a good atmosphere. Beer; usual tap stuff with Ringwood Boondoggle, Ossett Brewery's Silver King, Cottage Brewery's Lazyhound and Phoenix Ale, Timothy Taylor Landlord and Bombardier. The Phoenix and the Lazyhound were off, but changed for a decent Tim Taylor and Silver King. This is a decent place, despite the bad luck on the beer on my trip. I would more than happily return here

The Tap and Spile is one of the friendliest pubs I've ever been in. When I first came in here, just over a year ago, I was made to feel very welcome indeed by the locals. The bar is a large open-plan room with a well-balanced selection of machines (which usually annoy me but don't here) and seating areas. This, coupled with the excellent beer (3 ales on usually) and wonderful home-cooked food, has made it one of my prime choices of venue in Stafford. This time I didn't eat but thoroughly enjoyed pints of both Stargazer and Bombardier, well-kept and served with a smile. This pub is definitely worth seeking out for an enjoyable evening or as part of a crawl.