Dog, Bearwood

The Dog on Hagley Road West has recently been refurbished so, despite choosing a Wednesday night for a meal out, the pub was busy - with a mix of young and old clientele.

I opted for Singapore noodles with halloumi cheese - although there was stiff competition from the vegetable and smoked cheese pancake gateaux - both a distinct move away from the standard fayre offered to vegetarians.

My boyfriend - a big curry fan - went for the Murgh Saag Masala.

My meal comprised of spiced angel hair noodles, with grilled cheese drizzled with hoisin sauce and topped with rocket. And it was good.

The balance of ingredients was just right and, unlike many oriental sauces, it had no 'gloopy' texture.

There was a good selection of vegetables and a decent amount of cheese. My only criticism would be that it was a little cold when it arrived at the table.

The curry was described on the menu as an authentic Indian recipe of chicken pieces in Indian spices, chilli, tomato, onion and spinach, served with bombay potatoes, Naan bread and pilau rice.

When it arrived there was no sign of the Bombay potatoes, although all the other components appeared to be there. Even as a confirmed veggie it smelt good. The curry itself, I'm told, was delicious and piping hot.

There was a decent portion, but my boyfriend admitted he was rather overwhelmed by the volume of carbohydrates - a whole naan and a huge portion of rice. He confessed he would rather have tried the promised potato and cut the other elements by half.

Although I was going to leave it at the main course I couldn't resist the desserts on offer.

We shared the enticingly named Madagascan vanilla marscapone cheesecake. This came served with clotted cream, ice cream and Canadian wild blueberries.

It was a triumph. The sumptuous cake was served with very generous amount of juicy berries and ice cream, and was a very reasonable £3.25.

The two main courses cost £6.25 and £6.95 - good prices for the standard of food and the service was friendly and prompt.

A couple at a table close by were given apologies and a complimentary drink as their meal was taking a while. And it is this level of detail that sets the pub apart

This dog is having it's day.

ADDRESS

The Dog, Hagley Road West, Bearwood

Tel: 0121 434 6921

By Sally Walmsley