It's the Fort that counts. (The Fort)

Member Name: magenta23

Product:	The Fort
Date:	16/05/09 (21 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Atmosphere, views, food, service, location

Disadvantages: I don't live nearer

Visiting Newquay recently we felt it only right we tried out a number of pubs! By far, my favourite was The Fort Inn. Located on Fore street, it's just off the main drag of the town and over looks the beach, with amazing views.

The look of the place is smart if a little formal for a pub. I think the emphasis here is definately on the food. The tables are arranged well, the place gets busy but they haven't gone for the 'cram as many people' in as we can trick. The place is big anyway and the tables are a generous size with comfortable big leather chairs.

Although I think it's more geared up for the food and family market, you're not made to feel like you have to eat there. We often just went in for a quiet drink whilst soaking up the incredible views of the sea. I would advise you visit on less busy times if you want a sea views as these are the most popular tables. There is also an outside balcony which you can watch the waves roll in from but it was a little chilly for that when we were there last. Could sit there for hours though on a nice day. They sell pretty much every drink you could want, as they have a large, well stocked bar with all the usual favourites and few you may not be familiar with. Many local ales and ciders are here too, and they serve Rattler, a local very tasty cider, which made us happy.

Price wise, you're not paying restaurant prices but it's upper end of the price bracket for pub food and drink. What you get for your money though is worth it. The food is excellent, the staff are friendly, the place is beautiful, comfortable and the views (have I mentioned them) are stunning. Even the ladies loos deserve a mention. They are upstairs, directly above the seating area downstairs and this is where you get the best views! As with the rest of the place the toilets are perfectly clean and excellently decorated. Even the basins are shell shaped to keep the theme. This sort of attention to detail I think makes all the difference and puts the place up a notch on the quality scale.

Talking of scales, if there is fish on the specials menu I thoughly recommend you order it! The main menu is extensive and they have three or four extra things to choose from on the specials board. More often than not, fish which is caught locally. When we visited for dinner, I had grilled Sardines with a caper sauce, it was served with salad and two big chunks of tasty granary bread. It's been one of those meals that was so delicious you feel yourself craving it everytime you think of it! My partner, after spending near on half an hour studying the menu went for a cheese topped chilli bowl which was served with chips. The portion was huge and I tried a bit and agreed with him that it was very tasty. The main meals set you back between around £7-13 whch is not bad for the quality or the portions. There was also a very temping dessert board, but I just didn't have room!

Overall I can't fault this place. I can't wait to visit again.

Summary: Some of the best pub food I've eaten