Black Lake Inn in Stafford

Not the fastest service but quality food and beer. Staff are friendly and polite. Always nice and clean.

Visited a few weeks ago with some friends and had a pretty good experience overall. The restaurant was very accommodating—there were four of us plus a baby in a pram, and they were happy to seat us comfortably. Service was fast, friendly, and helpful throughout. There was a small hiccup when I asked for some hot water to make a bottle for the baby—it was initially declined, but a short while later they brought over the bottle filled and ready. That gesture was really appreciated. Food-wise, we started with a prawn cocktail to share between me and my partner. Generous portion, served hot, and tasted great. Maybe a touch too much salad on the side, but that’s a minor nitpick. For the main, I had the mixed grill. Again, very generous portion—especially the chips, which were chunky, crispy, and full of flavour. Definitely no need to ask for more! The steaks were a good size too, and all the meat was cooked exactly as requested. The onion rings were a bit of a letdown—big but limp and undercooked. And while the meat was cooked well, it was a little underwhelming in flavour. That said, the paid-for sauces really made up for it and brought everything together nicely. My friend had the steak and ale pie with added Stilton cheese, and offered me a bite—honestly, it was amazing. The crust was beautifully baked, and the filling was rich, flavourful, and comforting. Easily one of the highlights of the table. All in all, a solid meal with great service and hearty portions. A few things could be improved, but I’d happily come back again—especially to try more of that pie.

The venue was recommended by a local lady and we were not disappointed. Very friendly staff and good large quantities of food. A couple of minor points to talk about. But more or less brilliant

Fantastic atmosphere, great staff. The new menu is straight forward with lots to choose from. The portion sizes are more than enough.

Really enjoyed our first visit, service was great, food delicious and prices ok. Definately be going again.

Visited Easter Sunday the Turkey roast was great as always, followed by tiramisu excellent food , reasonable price one of our favourite places

Reasonably priced lunch menu! 2 courses for just under £13 or 3 for around £17. The restaurant was busy but we were greeted enthusiastically and the table was available even though we were early! Food came quickly despite the rush and our waiter was informative - providing information on allergens (one of our party was gluten free) also, all staff were friendly and they have vegan coleslaw! Lovely and will be back again 😊

The Black Lake Inn used to be one of our go to places for a light lunch or Sunday dinner. Unfortunately we went off it when it changed hands, but thought we would give it another try last Friday. We were disappointed to find that the restaurant has gone even further downhill and we didn’t enjoy it at all. Firstly, the menus resembled a takeaway menu which do not reflect a restaurant setting. The tables were very close together and despite it being relatively empty, they put us next to another lot of diners which felt quite cramped. We were also shocked to find how much the prices have increased. They are asking over £10 for a jacket potato, just under £16 for a Lasagna and £10-12 for a wrap / baguette. I don’t mind paying a higher price for quality but unfortunately the food served was nothing short of mediocre. The cheese and onion baguettes were bog standard with thickly cut onion and barely any cheese. Two sandwiches a kids meal and 3 drinks came to just under £50. We also noticed other meals coming out such as the Lasagne which looked very small considering the price. Overall it was just ok enough not to have to complain. Also, the staff seemed to just stand around and chat at whisper which can make you feel quite uncomfortable when the atmosphere is quiet. It almost felt as though they were taking about the guests the way they were looking around twiddling their thumbs. Unfortunately we wouldn’t recommend The Black Lake and will give it a miss until we hear it has either changed hands again or heard of some improvements. It is certainly a far cry from how it used to be which is sad as we have lots of good memories of the Black Lake.

Very disappointed 😞 came with family for a meal. Been here on many occasions before,this time was different .The male with dark greasy hair was abrupt,borderline rude. We felt everything was rushed and we couldn't relax. Food was ok.

Well let’s get the elephant in the room delt with …..the reviews for here don’t do it any favours,so it was with some trepidation that we booked ..I’m so glad we did This is my experience on a busy Good Friday night We were welcomed by a lovely lady,and even though we were a little early,got us seated and drinking our drinks without any fuss,a cheerful young waiter took our order,and all fears were fading Starters…I had battered king prawns and Mrs M had the soup (cauliflower cheese) both dishes were stunning.. mine fresh prawns in a light tempura batter drizzled-in sweet chill sauce (yum yum) and the soup was thick and I quote.. stunning . Mains … I had a steak pie with new potatoes and Mrs M had the Cajun chicken with chips,again both were first class and it wasn’t just our food that looked and tasted that way..all the tables food looked fantastic (loads of people taking pictures) we both polished our plates and I’ve genuinely nothing negative to say Deserts… well by now it was pant’s undoing time,but well,you’ve got to have pudding (it’s the law) I had the tiramisu and a Rolo cheesecake was the weapon of choice for Mrs M ..again it was stunning The bill was £65 for dinks and dinner, I don’t think that’s unreasonable So my thoughts…we’ve just had a fantastic night,all the staff were smiling and as we left at least 5 staff said goodbye and thanked us,I’ve checked to see it’s the same restaurant as in some of the reviews,because I promise you it’s not …this one is a brilliant place for a meal and I can’t recommend enough

Stinking attitude of management put me off ever returning to Black Lake Inn. This used to be one of our favourite places to eat since 2016, but custom not valued whatsoever so we won’t be returning. Manager / owner could do with a class in customer service

the food was disgusting, my wife had eaten her food before my food arrived. when it arrived it was wrong. the real ale i had and i love my real ale , was flat . so in all the food was disgusting , the food arrived slow . the staff were rude when we complained, i wish we had never been and will never go again, KEEP AWAY . EXPENSIVE BUT RUBBISH FOOD AND SERVICE.

Called in for a couple of pints in the sun with family and decided to eat outside. Went for the steak and ale pie and chips x 2 and the scampi and chips x2 and the food was spot on . Service was very good and food came in not long once ordered. Highly recommend to anyone thinking of calling in. 5/5 for me rating wise

Given visit this as a gift and it was well worth the time. An excellent meal with excellent service. Can't recommend Black Lake Lodge enough. We'll definitely be going back 👍

Disappointed with the visit to celebrate my 50th birthday. Food was lovely but the service wasn't great. Table up a tight corner and rather unfriendly and rude staff!

Really enjoyed the evening with family food was lovely

Lovely place but the food is cooked in way to much oil the plates were covered in oil. I don't eat food covered in grease none of us do we couldn't eat it. Waste of £70 my son is dairy free they didn't even ask If we had allergies

Wonderful experience on Mother’s day. From arriving we were greeted by Filip who was polite, greeted us with a smile. Highly attentive to service and made our experience one to remember. You are an asset to the team and we will most certainly be back! Great food as always! x

Pie night Tuesday. Service good and nice atmosphere. Pie was okay, chips lovely. Pub was more or less empty about 10pm, they were keen to hoof us out! Felt uncomfortable so we left. I would go again and try something of the regular menu next time.

ONLY £29.90 Steak & Quiz night (every Thursday from 5pm) Two 10oz rump steaks and a bottle of Hardy’s Bin161 wine. Upgrade to a sirloin for only £5.00 each Quiz starts 9.00pm Still advertising the above offer on 28th Feb '25, 3 off us went last night offer not on, Completley changed the menu but failed to tell the public, yet they have had the time to print and bring in a new menu, which is alot more expensive than there advertised menu. Alot of hospitality are struggling at the moment, so it is not a good idea to con the public.

As usual food excellent, staff very attentive and polite. Atmosphere bit noisy as restaurant full but overall lovely evening.

Lovely atmosphere and great food that is reasonably priced.

Absolutely love this place great price point with quality food and service

I visited for the 2 courses for £12.75 The prawn cocktail starter is much smaller than it used to be two years ago. FIVE large prawns only smothered in thick gloopy yukky sauce on a few tiny lettuce leaves and I mean just a few - with a warm roll and butter. It was just okay, not great The main course I chose was the fish goujons. You get three of them. This was quite good as the batter tasted nice. However, the inside fish content was quite small, but okay I suppose. Fries were okay. Service was just okay. The pub is trying to squeeze the maximum profit from the 2 courses which is still priced as affordable. The upshot is that the food portions are smaller and not as good quality. It's the only way to cut costs when the price is more or less fixed to attract the punters!! Cruzcampo is expensive at £2.75 for a half pint!!! My rating is just above average, Looks like I won't be visiting again anythime soon, LOL

The food was very tasty . The beef & ale pie was delicious. Staff are friendly .

We met up with family to celebrate my grandson's 10th birthday as we can't be with him on the actual day. The staff were so lovely and helpful and we couldn't fault the food. Everything was hot and so tasty. We'll be back the next time we're having a get together.

Lovely food large portions the staff very friendly and welcoming thank you for a lovely time

Superb dinner . Plenty on plate . Great price, highly recommended Brilliant staff .

We had a very enjoyable evening meal

Visited Black Lake 12th January for my birthday, along with my family of 6. The staff were absolutely amazing, smiles all round and so attentive. We didn't have to wait very long, which was great because we had 3 very hungry little ones to feed. The food came to our table within 20 minutes after we ordered and I have to say again, the server who attended to us was just so lovely in every way. The food we were served was piping hot, very nicely presented and more than enough to satisfy anyone's appetite. I decided to have the steak baguette, with fried onions which was absolutely amazing. The steak was cooked to perfection and the whole plate was so colourful with the lovely mixed salad. The Coleslaw was a nice treat on the side. Every member of our family really enjoyed their meals, including the children, so thank you so much for a lovely time at The Black Lake Inn. Compliments to your amazing chef please 🥰 Absolutely 5 *****

Lovely atmosphere and food at good prices. Staff are friendly and service is usually prompt, even when they are busy (which is most of the time).

Visit this establishment very regularly. Everyone are so warm and welcoming. Food always excellent, service impeccable, very relaxing atmosphere. Came Boxing Day lunchtime this year, Christmas day last year. Every special occasion with friends and family. Grandchildren love it here too. They now visit with their friends. Many good wishes to everyone at the Black Lake Inn

We come for Boxing Day lunch every year. Unsure if there has been a change in management or staff but what a disappointment. I am keen to point out positives where possible. Welcome not exactly welcoming upon arrival. Taken to our table all set lovely. Greeted at the table lovely. Starter brought to us, we ate and service took plates away in a timely manner. This is where the problems began. We waited, waited longer and eventually promoted a member of staff that they had simply forgotten us for mains. She disappeared and to be fair at this point we would have accepted human error. However to come back with a blatant lie that my lasagne was taking longer to cook than expected urm had they hired work experience for Boxing Day I think not. Eventually our meals were brought to us piping hot so just cooked and as I had originally suggested we’d been forgotten. Mains were brought over by a manager/supervisor no apology, no admittance of an error. Just stern faced. Staff then avoided us like the plague, no “is everything ok, no hope your meals are ok despite delay, just no polite service like other tables had received. Strangely last course followed over swiftly after mains. Thank the lord it was cheese board so we could leave it cold for a bit. £100 for two meals to be forgotten. Please let me remind readers at this point we were a restaurant of 3 tables. Tables of 4, 5 and us 2 people so hardly packed at this point. So we are now left with where to eat next year on Boxing Day as it will take major improvements in service to return again at Christmas time. Note to staff at Black Lake Inn. Honesty is a virtue and an absolute must in hospitality. If you’ve messed up - own it apologise, whatever it takes to show you are truly sorry. Today was not a shining example of good hospitality at all 🥲

Excellent Christmas day lunch. Food was hot and excellent and staff were very nice. I would highly recommend the Black Lake Inn

Beautiful food, amazing service and gorgeous little pub.

Disappointing visit this past weekend. Roast dinner was average at best. Service was appalling with rude and clearly inexperienced staff. Atmosphere was fine; we were near the door (more open space but cold) but the main restaurant area is often cramped and loud. Used to highly rate and recommend the black lake but it has definitely gone downhill over the years and yesterday was sadly the last straw. I won't be returning in a hurry.

Lovely place and food staff were really friendly would recommend and we will be back.

We visited here on Sunday for the first time , 4 adults . On arrival the car park was very busy (which I took as a good sign) but we still managed to park . We were greeted by a friendly member of staff and told our table wasn’t quite ready but we could order drinks at the bar , so we did . We were then shown to a seating area . Menus were given to us , which I thought was a great idea as we could choose what we wanted while we waited. The menu was fantastic and we all struggled to decide as to what to order, we were all torn between 3 or 4 options. After a short wait we were shown to our table and the atmosphere was really warm, relaxing and Christmassy. We did wait a little while for the food to arrive, but that was ok for us. 2 roast dinners and 2 burger meals later and we were all stuffed, believe me when I say that the portions are very generous . We all thoroughly enjoyed it and will definitely visit again . All the staff were extremely friendly and helpful and the homemade food was delicious.

Absolutely disgusting. Out for Xmas lunch no turkey on the menu. Told there was one in the oven cooking. Manager not at all interested. Wouldn't reduce the bill of £118.00. The food was tasteless and not at all inviting on the plate. Would not recommend to anyone.

We booked a table for the Christmas Menu for today.When we arrived our table wasn't ready we politely agreed to sit somewhere else. We ordered our starter main meal and drinks. The starter arrived very nice only then to be told that there wasn't any Turkey!!!! to be had from the Christmas menu????? There is one in the oven but not ready. We reluctantly chose something else from the menu after looking forward to a Turkey roast. The alternative was poor no taste presentation not good.The seabass was very bland. After spending £118 We did complain to the manageress she wasn't a bit concerned even after I told her that I was going to put a bad review on the website. We will not be returning ever again with poor food and manageress that is as unprofessional as she was today

They did accommodate us at the last minute for which I was grateful, however, 1. Think the head on my pint was a bit excessive, didn’t want to complain as I’d ordered a meal.2. When my lamb and mint pie arrived including veg, I think the veg could have done with being strained a bit more, as there was water residue on my plate, which kinda put me off a bit.

Last minute booking on a Sunday, had a great Sunday dinner lovely food and not a bad price

Lovely homemade chunky chips, 12 large scampi per portion, peas and salad with lemon meringue roulade for dessert. Food was hot and came out quickly. Would recommend

A first glance the prices seemed a bit on the high side nut when the food came it was evident they weren't. Food came out quickly despite being busy. Really good size portions, home made chunky chips (not frozen) 12 reasonably sized scampi and lovely homemade tarter sauce. Dessert was lemon meringue roulade with topping of choice. Would recommend

Great pub food, hearty portions. They do simple food well eg various pies, good homemade chips, huge battered fish, good Sunday lunch. Good puddings, the cheesecake is love,y. It was pie night tonight ( they have fish night and steak night too ) £7.95 for home made pie chips peas! It's not worth doing your own. Staff lo ely

Had a great time ,so much food 3 coarses for £18 , good food well worth every penny 😋

Nice lunch. They were short staffed but waitress worked extremely hard so never felt we were kept waiting. Had roast beef dinner. Very nice although cauliflower was underdone but put this down to staff shortages. Overall experience very good and would go again.

Excellent food and service, well done

Great, we used to live down here at S-o-T and this place is still good

Well run dining pub with good selection of home cooked food and generous portions. Friendly and efficient service.

Very friendly, helpful , efficient staff and good menu which was value for money. Worth a visit but book as very busy on the Friday night we went as two for £25 fish and chips with wine,

We were told certain gluten-free meals were in the deal, but then on paying were charged extra, and management wouldn't override it even though we were able to say which server it was. Sunday lunch was swimming in gravy, and broccoli was burnt. No one came and asked if we wanted anymore drinks during the meal, so ended going to the bar.

Lovely place, very nice food. Great service.

We had food from the lunch menu and chose the 2 courses for £12.75. Excellent value for money. I could definitely recommend the tempura vegetables as a starter. The food came hot, cooked well and nicely presented. The only downside is that 3 of the starters, all prawn cocktail came first, and my starter came out 10 mins after. Pleasant staff and nice place to eat.

Very welcoming, superb food, favourite place to eat.

DONT GO!! Staff totally ignored us, my food was cold and no one came to ask if everything was ok, no option of more drinks. We were left to sit with our finished plates in front of us for ages. When the waitress eventually came, I complained about the service and my meal and she just argued with me, I asked to speak to the manager who wasn't available so asked to speak to the owner who had gone out. At this point I was fuming so I paid for the drinks but refused to pay for the meals until I could speak to someone about the service and attitude of some of the staff. I got a phone call the next day from the owner Lee Goodwin who was not apologetic in the slightest and was just horrible to me on the phone and he told me I'm not welcome back!! HOW RUDE! I went the week before with friends and spent over £200, the staff were miserable and rude then so this wasn't a one off!! Look up the meaning of customer service Lee!!

Came on Saturday night and we had a great time, service from the staff was fantastic and the food just as good, will definitely be seeing you again!

Me and a few friends came for lunch on Thursday, had fantastic options I went for the pie of the day and ate the whole thing and my friends had a roast, staff were lovely and friendly!

Always enjoy going here. The food is lovely, atmosphere great and brilliant customer service.

Excellent has always. Food was excellent great value for money. Staff very friendly and atmosphere great. Lovely Sunday Roast.

Really nice pub/restaurant, excellent food, reasonably priced, excellent and friendly helpful staff, definitely recommend.

Food was nice, helpings OK. I don't understand the salad with everything trend. The staff were lovely, very attentive.

Very poor quality food. Was told they had a new chief so we thought we would give it another try. Food not of very good standard will not be going back not many people in and not a dog friendly place. The only good thing was the coffee.

This is about the sixth time have visited and every time meals just get better,chose the salmon fillet which was superb much better,larger and cheaper than Miller and Carter,be back again soon.

Great staff. The fish & chips was pretty good too.

Great place, lovely food, great service, myself and my partner with be back.

Never been before. Up staywith friends in Stoke. Menu's in laminated sheets Underwhelming selection, although the steak pie was a good choice. Full of meat and flavour, excellent size. I prefer mash with pie but the choice was only chips. Ordered side of onion rings - very generous portion however they were tasteless, as the batter hadn't been seasoned at all. Rather greasy. Pie and chips wasn't particularly expensive, so value for money.

Come to this place after a busy day.. ordered a pizza as a main meal and received a microwave pizza how bad is that?so many pubs need lessons with gorden Ramsay!!

Just now returned home from Black Lake Inn, got in just before 9pm but was turned away by a waitress, very disappointed ☹️ will avoid using this restaurant now

Perfect lunch out with Mum. The staff could not have been more friendly and helpful, especially the manager (I think it was the manager). We were offered a table but wanted one in the window, which was not set up. Not a problem at all, we were asked to order our drinks whilst they set up, then we were seated. Service and food was first class. Amazing value for money. Haven't been for a few years having moved out of the area, so pleased I came back to the Black Lake. Would highly recommend.

I have absolutely no words everythings perfect

Cant say a bad word about it great food, lovely people.still lovely a cracking place to eat out

Really nice not rushed at all. Not all food pn this list but it was great

Lovely home cooked food friendly staff

Great ,but stuffing was awful. 6 of us so not a personal thing

I've been a few times and never had a bad meal, really good meals at a very reasonable price.

There was 5 of us for meals order was taken but 3 were wrong, 2 were taken back to be changed other one stayed, they seem be overstretched or not coping quality of service was dreadful, overpriced for what you got, and seems to be going back to the bad times (covid) or poor management

I visited for the 2 courses for £12.75 The prawn cocktail starter is much smaller than it used to be two years ago. FIVE large prawns only smothered in thick sauce on a few lettuce leaves with a warm roll and butter. It was okay, not great The main course was the fish goujons. You get three of them. This was quite good as batter tasted nice. However the inside fish content was quite small, but okay I suppose. Fries were okay. Service was just okay Cruzcampo is expensive at £2.75 for a half Not encouraged to visit again soon really

Food is absolutely amazing here. What a great pub will be back for sure!

We came here to have a meal , there was 5 of us, the staff are friendly, but the table felt sticky, so was not impressed with that, the food was good, the beef lasagna was good and the boys enjoyed there steaks. My one real gripe is that the mayonnaise is in the little sachets, very basic for a restaurant and it was cheap and runny, this puts me off, if producing good food, don't ruin it with cheap condiments.

I always enjoy the food here and the home-made chips are amazing, however when it came to pudding our order was taken and checked, then bought to us incorrect. We raised the issue, I had asked for ice cream with my cheesecake and my friend cream, but they got the two the wrong way round. They then bought the my friends lemon cheesecake out on my chocolate plate complete with sauce and my chocolate cheese one a bed of lemon sauce and melted ice cream. We then sent it back again (third time lucky) to which the brown haired young waitress rolled her eyes and served us the same cheesecakes as there was lemon sauce or the chocolate and vice verse on new plates but the cheesecake had sauce stuck to it from the old plates...no apology! Then we divided the bill accordingly and told another waitress the calculation for each person and that was entered wrong as well. It's a shame as the food and service is usually lovely.

Fantastic food & Fantastic staff

Food was amazing. Steaks were cooked to perfection and lovely service.

Excellent food & atmosphere. Lovely Sunday roast dinner

Always fabulous food, never let's us down, lunch snack or evening 3 course meal, and service with a smile, always a bonus as this gets forgotten in a lot of places just lately. Highly recommend.

Been going here for the last 20 years! Coleslaw was like slop! Chips 10/10! Steak medioca Booked for 7.15 & was told kitchen closed at 8. So if we ordered a sweet it was going be a sweet in the microwave! Staff were friendly - but tidying tables around us as we were eating! Why offer late eating times if you don’t offer the service! Carpet rugs a bit worn! Sorry disappointed for our date night!

Lovely pub in lovely rural location

Had a brilliant meal out with the family. Food, service and the atmosphere was great thanks to you all at the Black Lake.

Went yesterday for father's day/ wife,s birthday Lovely food atmosphere always pleasant & staff are always cheerful , helpful and very friendly we go here often & never been disappointed 😊 👍

Generous, tasty portions, atmosphere was great and service was very good. Will definitely return

We went on a Friday afternoon and we called to book. When we got there they turned someone away as they said they were fully booked and nearly all the tables were empty! So I'd say you need to book. The tables were a bit grubby to be honest it looks like it needs a bit of an upgrade. Especially for the prices on the menu. There wasn't a big menu. We opted for the fish Friday 2 for £25 I think. That was seemingly what everyone was having. That was good value as you both got a drink. I can't comment on the rest of the food. There was no atmosphere so I won't be rushing back.

Not been here for at least 6 months after a not very good Sunday roast, but we thought we would try it again. Sunday roast (beef) was excellent. Very tender, smothered in tasty gravy. Great veg and roast potatoes too. We commented as we paid the bill asking if they had a new chef as the food was much better than last time, and the waitress said they did indeed have a new chef who had started a few weeks ago. Only thing I could fault was that the apple crumble was too much apple and not enough crumble, but that's just personal preference.

Food was good value for money and was delicious!! Shout out to the woman behind us who laughed her head off all night, it made us chuckle.

Just had our tea there . I had steak and chicken combo Partner had veg lasagna. Both meals were excellent the steak was tender and the chunky chips . Well .. Will be returning soon .. thanks

Saw online it had motorhome park . Rang them to confirm and was told yes we could stay that night for £15 .arrived after a 5 hour drive looking forward to a pint and dinner only to be told we could not stop as caravan club members only , no mention of this on phone and no apology .not a good way to end a long day . Rude and not bothered by the trouble caused .

Came for an anniversary meal, not been in some time. Sunday lunch was a plate full and enjoyed by both

Service was a 10/10 food was a very good standard and will definitely visit here again soon.

Have been here a few times and always had a really good meal. This evening we went for our daughter's birthday and the staff were fantastic. They were so helpful and attentive. All of our food was lovely and nothing was too much trouble. I am so glad we picked here to come to celebrate her birthday with family and we will definitely be back soon.

First time visiting as we couldn't get a table at our usual pub. Stopped in on a busy Saturday and was seated quickly. Ordered the pie and the burger both excellent value for money. Will definitely be returning.

Lovely lady served the best latte, great prices , working on the roads in the area so kept popping back , would highly recommend , beautiful area , you can sit by the lake and watch the ducks while you drink you coffee, definitely going back