The Vine Inn - Braintree

Not as home made as thought Probably someone’s aunties Yorkies and roasts Veggies would be surprised if fresh Pastries needed some kind of flavouring Overall experience very poor

We checked the previous comments on the Inn before we booked. They seemed very complimentary. We booked. From the outside it didn’t look too bad. Inside it was dark, unwelcoming and cold. The menu was limited and if you didn’t particularly like a roast or vegetarian tart you could have been stuck. A burger was an option. I have to say three roasts later and my fellow guests weren’t impressed. The food was not I am sure homemade and seemed like Brakes bros food. You can see in the kitchen through a door in the corridor by the toilets. We won’t be going back. The only benefit was the waitress who was very nice and her colleague. Prices were good.

Accidentally turned up here instead of The Vine in Barfield with our elderly mother. The proprietor Nicky was very accommodating and we were seated alone at the opposite end of the bar. Sadly the fire wasn’t working, so a little chilly for a 90 year old. The food whilst limited was very nice. We chose the roast beef. It would have stayed warmer though if the plates had been heated first. The mulled wine was warm and pleasant. Unable to make a cappuccino, their normal coffee was very nice. The crumble ordered for our mum was boiling hot. We returned it and asked that it be placed in a cooler bowl so could be eaten. The hand dryer in the ladies toilet was broken and no option for any hand towels or alternatives. Nicky tried her hardest to make our visit pleasant and went out of her way to make sure we got her back safely to our car on the busy road/path covered in snow. Just feel the whole pub was tired and in need of updating.

This was our first trip to the Vine Inn. The food was good, although its a shame the specials board was bear which reduced our options but the service was excellent and friendly. Prices were also reasonable. The only reason I mark as a 4 is the venue itself could do with a bit of updating. It was a little sparce and there was little atmosphere. I would definitely go back with my husband but it's not somewhere I would take friends for a special evening out. Many thanks

Very friendly and helpful staff. Good food with varied gluten free options. We had a very nice meal with good service and reasonably priced. Well worth a visit.