The Druid Inn, Ruthin Road, Llanferres
Tel: 01352 810225
Having just moved to the area this was my first taste of dining out locally.
I have lived in big cities all my life, so I’m used to walking less than five minutes to get some food.
In the village where I now live, that option isn’t available, so I hopped in the car and headed out via Cadole and up the Ruthin Road to The Druid Inn, at Llanferres.
As I pulled into the car park a couple of things caught my attention.
The sign declaring free wi-fi was always going to be a plus point for me but it was the cyclists loading into their van and the sign on the door that welcomes cyclists that impressed me more.
As I entered the bar I was greeted by Julie, the owner.
She advised me that as they had just started service I would probably prefer to eat in the bar as the first restaurant customers had not yet arrived and I would be on my own.
I took her advice and settled down with one of my favourite beers – a bar always gets a tick from me if they sell Peroni. The bar area had low beam ceilings and a log fire, and gave the feel of a country local.
A big wall menu board was stocked with a treasurehouse of tasty starters and mains.
I was tempted by the fresh fish board but instead opted for the ‘special’ for the day, home-made game pie, which the owner/chef Jim assured me was locally sourced. I ordered at the bar and started with the salmon and red pepper fishcake.
To me fishcakes can be a bit hit and miss but The Druid scored a big hit with the lightly coated cake bursting with succulent chunks of salmon.
A good start was followed quickly by a great short crust pie, filled with fine cuts of game.
The meal had been advertised with a jacket potato but arrived with chips, but I think the chips worked better anyway.
As I tucked into the pie numerous people came and went, all greeted by name by Julie, enhancing my impression of a village local.
I was attended by a young waitress who offered me the dessert board, how could I say no to such temptation? Most irresistible to me was the prospect of chocolate fudge cake.
It was advertised with cream but I preferred ice cream, so I asked for that instead. I was tempted by the offer of both but thought better of it.
Coffee served in an individual cafetiere brought a delicious meal to a perfect end. An hour later I was still relaxing in the welcoming atmosphere at this friendliest of pubs.
Before leaving I had a little tete-a-tete with Julie and found out the secret of the coffee supplier, I just had to know.
Don’t worry Julie, your secret is safe with me!
One thing’s for sure, I’ll be back for that wonderful coffee and maybe the appealing Six Nations special of steak and chips for £6.95.
The Bill:
Salmon and red pepper fishcake – £4.95
Home made game pie – £10.95
Chocolate fudge cake – £4.25
Peroni – £2.75
coffee – £2.35
Total - £25.25