The Tawny Owl - Darlington

The food was delicious and the atmosphere was wonderful at this charming old pub decorated with twinkling fairy lights for Christmas.

I appreciated somewhere that offered food at 4pm on a Tuesday in November. The place looked lovely and the staff were friendly. The only let down was the food. Both my partner and I went for pie of the day as it was beef in red wine. At £14.95 a head you should expect something reasonable, but what we were both given was an inedible amount of gristle with some very average chips. I have to admit that the carrots were actually good, though. I should have taken some photos of the amount of half chewed meat, but that wouldn't be very pleasant. We are not an old couple with dentures. I did not complain too much at the time as my partner was paying and she didn't get a receipt. We were offered a free coffee as recompense, but just wanted to leave. I hope the Christmas meals that people will have there are of a higher standard.

My wife and I had visited this restaurant previously on our way to Yorkshire and had a great experience, so we decided to stop there again for lunch on Friday. Booking online was easy, but there was plenty of space available anyway. The bar was comfortable and dog-friendly, although it was a bit chilly. The staff were trying to light a real fire to help warm up the space. All of the staff were very friendly and efficient. We started with a shared flatbread and then enjoyed the Pie of The Day (Beef Ale) and Mac and Cheese. Both dishes were excellent. We also had 2 large soft drinks, and the total bill came to £40, which seemed reasonable considering the quality of the food. Overall, we highly recommend this restaurant.

Oldy worldly interior is very quaint and spacious apparently an old farmhouse. We checked the menu and after the obligatory 10 mins I went for home-baked pie of the day, soon to be told they were sold out! Second choice steak sandwich...on reverse of menu, sorry none left! Fish and chips please. Disappointed with the batter on the fish which was slightly soggy and measily portion of pease (I had to ask for a top-up) therefore, overall dissatisfaction. I gave it 3 for service, the lady was polite and attentive.

The food and service at this restaurant are fantastic. The pub has a very nice atmosphere and is dog-friendly. The menu offers a great variety of options, the staff is friendly, and there is ample parking available.