The Carpenters Arms Coed – Y – Paen

+ cozy country pub
+ lovely staff with the most beautiful Welsh accent
— pricey for no-​frill pub food
— limited selection on draught
We had dinner at Carpenters Arms as it was close to the hotel in Pontypool where we were staying the same evening. The pub itself is spacious but decorated and set up in a way that gives off a warm, cozy country pub feel.
The food was average pub grub and, although the portion size was decent, the dishes veered towards the pricey side for the quality we received. I was particularly disappointed that the only cider that evening it had on draught was Strongbow.
For starter I had the chorizo and prawn which was swimming in a rather bland, reddish oil, lacking the flavour of even average quality chorizo from the local supermarket in Britain. My main of lamb henry (slow roasted lamb shank) was tender and fell off the bone, but the sauce looked and tasted like a thick Bisto gravy. For dessert I shared the spotted dick pudding with a friend and it was pretty tasty, although it did look like someone sneezed cocoa powder all over the plate. (I suppose presentation is a matter of subjectivity!)
The atmosphere is great and I enjoyed the décor and setting, but food was average and filling but rather pricey for the quality.

This is a nice old pub with great food, beer and friendly staff. All the ingredients used in the meals are high quality and locally sourced where possible. I’ve been here twice and had lovely meals both times. Only thing is, both times they didn’t have the open fire going and it was a bit chilly in the old part of the building (which is the most atmospheric bit). Other than the lack of fire, it’s a great pub!