About This Pub
Ah, The Forest Bar & Restaurant – it's one of those places that really grows on you, tucked away in a converted coach house with a warm, inviting feel that's just right for a casual night out. From what I've gathered from the reviews, the food steals the show with standout dishes like the fillet of beef and those incredible wings on Wednesdays – honestly, at £1.50 a pop, it's a bargain you won't want to miss. The portions are generous too, so it's great value for a hearty meal. Service-wise, it's generally spot on, with staff going the extra mile, like replacing a dodgy drink without being prompted, which adds a nice personal touch. On the flip side, though, it can turn into a bit of a madhouse on busier evenings, with noise levels cranked up and service getting stretched, meaning you might have to chase things up or deal with delays. Plus, if you're veggie-inclined, the options are a smidge limited, so it might not be the first choice for a varied menu. All in all, it's a solid spot for good food and drinks in a relaxed setting, but I'd say it's best visited mid-week or when it's quieter to get the full experience – definitely worth a try if you're in the area!
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The food is absolutely spot on – think delicious fillet of beef, generous Sunday roasts, and cracking wings, especially with that £1.50 deal on Wednesdays!
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Portions are really hearty, so you'll leave feeling well satisfied without breaking the bank.
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Service can be top-notch when they're on form, like that bar tender who proactively swapped out a flat coke without a fuss – it's those little touches that make a visit memorable.
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The atmosphere is nicely chilled and welcoming, perfect for a relaxed catch-up over a few beers or a meal.
Cons
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It can get pretty noisy on busy evenings, like Saturdays, which might make it hard to have a proper chat.
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Service sometimes falls short when things get hectic, with orders going missing or taking a while, as one reviewer had to chase up sides.
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Vegetarian options are a bit limited; it's mostly just the veggie roast, so if you're after something more varied, you might feel a tad short-changed.
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Not every dish hits the mark for everyone – that kimchi on the chicken burger wasn't to one person's taste, so it pays to stick with what you know.
Contact Information
Forest Hotel, 25 Station Approach, Dorridge, Solihull B93 8JA
+441564772120
Bar
Open Now
Opening Hours
| Monday (Today) | 08:00 - 23:00 |
| Tuesday | 08:00 - 23:00 |
| Wednesday | 08:00 - 23:00 |
| Thursday | 08:00 - 23:00 |
| Friday | 08:00 - 00:00 |
| Saturday | 09:00 - 00:00 |
| Sunday | 09:00 - 22:30 |
Recent Reviews
In hindsight, Saturday evening was a bad time to go. The bar was very noisy and staff understandably stretched. This meant the service was lacking and we had to chase up missing sides.
The fillet of beef was delightful and there was nothing wrong with the children's sausage dinner. However, the "famous" chicken wings were really disappointing - covered in far too much sauce and bloody within. I mentioned this and pointed out the blood in every wing I'd bitten into but was promptly dismissed and told that wasn't possible as the wings were precooked. Left more than half on my plate.
I'd have gladly shared this feedback but at no point during or after the meal were we asked how it was. The answer? A mixture of delicious and inedible. Wife definitely won with her choice.
My partner bought a coke, we did notice that the gas had gone and not much coke was in it, but we didn't complain, my partner was halfway through his drink and the bar tender came outside to us and gave us a brand new fresh coke without us saying anything. He explained he noticed the coke had gone and thought we deserved a fresh glass. We thought it was so kind and thoughtful and had it at no extra charge. Excellent service, and we didn't even complain, attention to detail and taking care of us as customers was top level
The Sunday roasts were delicious with generous portions. So disappointed there was no vegetarian option apart from the veggie roast which was just more veg and roast potatoes! A Sunday lunch menu usually has a nut roast or veg tart on offer.
Love a few beers at the forest, nice chilled atmosphere and if you are lucky enough to drop in on a Wednesday make sure to try the wings! £1.50 a wing on Wednesdays and they are incredible, also do boneless now. Went there last night and they were as good as ever!
Delicious chicken burger, not sure about the kimchi, though. It wasn't to my taste. Service was accommodating and efficient. Key lime pie was also delicious. Large portions. Would definitely come back.
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