First time at the half moon at Kirk merrington. Jackie who took our orders and drinks was very efficient and pleasant. All the food is made fresh and was lovely, complements to the chef Lewis. Will definitely go back and recommend to family and friends.👌
Booked for a Sunday lunch today. Being a bank holiday weekend and the day after Sunderland gained promotion, the place was fully booked and weren't able to do takeaways as normal. A well-deserved cracking review in the local paper probably boosted bookings too.
We were warmly greeted, got our drinks and were seated by the staff - Lara, Tia and Jacky. They were all friendly and very attentive throughout so top marks there, despite being busy.
We both had Spiced Parsnip Soup which was really tasty and plentiful. It came with two (large) warm wedges of bread and butter which tasted home made. 5 stars there
The main course came with a very large slice of melt in the mouth succulent beef in gravy, a large Yorkshire pudding, four roasties and plenty mash. Maybe because it was very busy today, the rest of the veg was a bit lacking - one piece of carrot, a couple of small florets of broccoli and a tiny serving of turnip. We have eaten here before and this was a first - portion sizes have always been generous, so don't be put off by that - it's not typical at all. But today was a 4.5/5 instead of the usual 5/5.
Value for money - a two course Sunday lunch was nearly £17 in May 2025. Compared to a pub named after a bird in Ponteland (which is also excellent) the pricing at the Half Moon is very competitive (there, it would set you back £30 for the same meal).
Would we go again? Absolutely, despite it not being on our doorstep. The food was really lovely, the staff excellent and the pub is deserving of the praise it's now receiving from the media. Compliments to the chef(s) and management. Cheers.
Written by Grandaughter Annabelle (with the help of AI) but we agree with every word.
The Half Moon in Kirk Merrington—let us celebrate this culinary delight.
Ladies and gentlemen, today we gather not to praise mere food, but to honor a tradition—a masterpiece on a plate. The Half Moon's fish and chips is not just a meal; it is an experience, a warm embrace of flavors that reminds us why we hold this dish so close to our hearts.
Picture this: a golden, crispy batter enveloping fresh, flaky fish, cooked to absolute perfection. Each bite is a harmonious dance of textures and tastes, a gentle crunch followed by the succulent richness of the sea. And let us not forget the chips! These are no ordinary companions; they are thick-cut, golden treasures, the ideal balance of soft fluffiness and crispy edges. A sprinkle of salt, a splash of vinegar—ah, sheer poetry!
The Half Moon brings tradition and excellence together on your plate. Whether you're a local seeking comfort or a traveler in pursuit of authenticity, their fish and chips are a celebration of all that is great about British cuisine. Pair it with a refreshing pint or a steaming cup of tea, and you have before you not just food but a little slice of happiness.
So let us raise our forks to the art of fish and chips, as crafted by the talented team at The Half Moon. To those golden fillets, to those glorious chips, and to the joy they bring to people's lives.
Absolutely lovely meal this evening from Chef Lewis – everything was cooked to perfection. As always, we received fantastic service with a smile from Amber, who really makes you feel welcome.
The Half Moon at Kirk Merrington is a brilliant pub with great food and top-notch service. Highly recommended!
Popped in for breakfast with me mate, Amber on the bar was very welcoming and attentive taking our orders.
Gary the chef made top notch grub, sausage, bacon and black pudding all to my liking.
Will return.