The ideal local

Everyone should have a local like this. Unfortunately for us, it is on the other side of town, but we still make the effort to go there regularly which probably tells you a lot in itself.It is an attractive pub about 5 to 10 minutes walk from the town centre. Apparently it is the oldest inn in Taunton. There is limited on street parking available and a good sized car park around the corner.The young owners, Mark and Emma, are friendly and very good at what they do. They have a knack for employing staff who combine efficiency, attentiveness and an ability to make you feel welcome. This is the sort of place where you soon come to be recognised as a regular.The main reason we go to the Vivary Arms is the food. This is consistently excellent - genuine home cooking at its best. It ranges from traditional pub favourites (the ham, egg and chips is a work of art!) through more elaborate specials that include fish and local produce, to what is without doubt the best traditional Sunday lunch in town. Make sure you book for Friday/Saturday nights and Sunday lunches as the lounge/restaurant area is not large. There is good real ale available, and a small but thoughtful selection of wines at very reasonable prices.This is an example of a pub that has got the formula right. Good beer and wine, a well executed traditional pub menu, welcoming hosts and an unpretentious but comfortable ambience.Very highly recommended.

A User - 06/08/2008 | report this review