Alford Arms

Unless you are from the area this little gem is not something that you'll stumble across outside of reviews and recommendations. It's understated exterior contrasts to the warm, homely feel presented once you walk through the doors. Nice décor, friendly staff and a layout which feels cosey without intruding on other diners.

We came for the food, well lunch and it was very nice. Warm Rustic Breads with the usual accompaniment of vinegar and oil, enhanced by a serving of roasted garlic 😋.

Starters was Cornish mackerel with cucumber linguine. It was delicious, light, fresh and not a mouthful was wasted. The Bubble N Squeak (which I'm not a fan of) was a marvel. Was it the smoked bacon and/or the poached egg partnership that made this sing? I'm not sure but quite honestly, I'm now a convert 👏🏾

For mains we both had confit pork belly with creamy mash. Not a lump in sight for the tongue to stumble upon and the pork was wonderfully succulent without being fatty and the cracking had and impressive snap to it. Not a morsel was left on either plate. Bravo team.

So why only 3 star's you ask? Well, parking is an issue but that's not really the real crux. The service needs some work. Rustic Breads arrive but no side plates for another 5 minutes. After clearing starters away, new cutlery was provided but laid bare on the wooden table. I'd expect new serviettes to be paid down and cutlery placed on top of them. Finally, although food was wonderful, I felt that the choices were a little limited but that's a little critical on my part.

Overall, this place is good and if the small service points are resolved this place will be great and deserved of 4 or 5 stars (assuming food stays consistent) 🙏🏽

Amazing food and atmosphere, very professional staff.

I highly recommend this pub for food. The roast dinner is one of the best and the desserts are good too! Staff were friendly and efficient and we didn't feel too rushed despite the fact it was busy when we arrived. Would definitely eat here again.

Lovely pub for drinks and food. Lots of outdoor seating. Some under cover and some under trees. Very peaceful and quiet. Staff very friendly and helpful. Service was good and food was great. We both had the lamb. I prefer mine on the bone but not everyone does and it was still good. Good place to end up in after a long walk. Pretty garden.

Lovely gastropub with gourmet dishes which look and taste good. Staff are friendly and service is excellent. No WiFi though.

I like this place - old style British gastro pub with nice food and lovely beer. We were seated outside , which was welcome on a hot day! The service was incredibly slow - I think they forgot about us for a while - turned up with the card machine before we'd had our mains. Would definitely return though.

We have been in this pub in the past and loved the food. This time it has been very disappointing. We know is not cheap but we don't mind to pay for good food. Squid risotto tasteless...had to put salt 3 times and they put about 4 tiny pieces of squid. Hake also needed salt, Mac cheese dry. What happened there? What a shame! It used to be really good food. Also, I ordered red wine to have venison offered as special and then they tell me they don't have it? They could have crossed it from the specials or at least say before hand that they do not have it? Terribly disappointing for a mediocre expensive dinner. I am sorry to have to say this.

Who are these bitter and twisted reviewers of my favourite pub? We have been dining here every Sunday for 7 years. Sure, it has a small kitchen. You might not get all options on the menu all the time, but it’s a lovely place, the food is good and it feels like home. It’s also tucked in one of the most beautiful spots in the Chilterns.