Milne’s, the “Poet’s Pub”, is a snug little corner on Rose Street. It’s a place where I’ve spent many an evening, and I’ve eaten there from time to time, down the years. I have a feeling that I sent MJ there when she was introducing a friend of her’s from back home to the joys of Scottish pub grub.

I’d like to point out that October has turned in to a truly ridiculous month, in terms of questing, in case you haven’t noticed. I seem to be out all the time at the moment. My bank account is starting to squeal for mercy, but with next week, an imminent visit from my brother Bill, the launch of Union of Genius on the 24th, and our long-awaited trip to Castle Terrace on the 27th, the merriment shows no signs of abating!

I dined today with work friends, following an enjoyable morning meeting. We had booked three or four long tables in Milne’s downstairs dining area. This classic dark wood interior feels just right; as does the wide-ranging menu covering all the usual pub grub treats. My fellow diners chose items such as tasty looking sandwiches, a good looking plate of fish and chips, and baked potatoes with various toppings, with my personal favourite being a fish finger sandwich, which I will be trying on my next visit.

Orders were taken at the bar, and I have to say that the two chaps handled things like a well-oiled production line.

I chose a traditional steak and ale pie. It came with chips, carrots and beans, a delightful little jug of gravy, but the pie itself was the undoubted star. Cutting through the beautifully crumbly pastry revealed a gently steaming avalanche of steak, which flowed across the plate like a meaty lava flow. Beat that for a mixed metaphor!

I was delighted with the dish, and polished it off in minutes. Similarly smiley faces were to be seen around all the tables.

Overall, if you’re after a spot of traditional pub grub, Milne’s is a very good place to sample it. It consistently delivers an excellent range of hearty dishes that are guaranteed to please. I look forward to that fish finger sandwich on my next visit.

Scores

Blythe scores Milne’s at The Lister
4/5 for food
3/5 for presentation
3/5 for setting
4/5 for service
giving an overall score of 14/20

Today’s Lunch Quester was: Blythe

I ate: steak and ale pie

I drank: sparkly water

I wore: pink and blue tie with pink and blue shirt