Elephant & Castle, Dudley

Something of an oddity this one; a non-chain food-led pub (albeit with a limited menu), unexpectedly operating in an area where more basic drinking-only establishments are to be found. Retains two separate rooms on either side of the central servery, both traditional in appearance and one with tables laid up for dining. Disappointingly, no real ale available from the two banks of three handpumps, although Tribute is normally available, so made do with a Tetley's. Oddly, very precious about "have you booked a table" (which I hadn't) despite being near-enough empty early on a Wednesday evening.