Riverside Coventry Arms in East Dorset

Very disappointed in our visit this evening. They didn't seem to want to book us in despite not being busy. Another lady then came and finally got us a table, to which the other young girl started shaking her head about. Then we got told you cant eat food on the tables on the grass but only on the patio. There used to be so many more tables there which have been taken away and they are now very limited on them even though they have loads of space for more, so its baffling as to why they have taken loads away. We the got told we would have to order quick, which we did anyway and we were not being slow at all. Food came out and was a bit of a disappointment for the price but not the worst ive ever had. I then went to get more drinks at the bar and was totally ignored by the 2 staff behind there for nearly 10 mins, it actually took another customer to step in and ask if they could interrupt the other duties they were doing behind the bar to serve us in between. Atmosphere was dead with no background music. Such a shame as this used to be a good place but is clearly now failing in every area, and all are areas that could be easily fixed with someone with half a brain and paying attention. We will now not be returning after going on and off for years as it totally ruined the evening out for everyone. We wanted to stay for the evening but ended up leaving as soon as we ate. I hope someone in Management/Ownership reads this and does something about it, as its gone right downhill and needs addressing before they lose too many customers that they cant sustain the business anymore.

Visited this lovely pub on the fly whilst in the area. Did not disappoint! Ashley our server was amazing! Went above and beyond too with pregnant wife with allergy as well as super friendly Only wish we'd come earlier in the week so we could have visited again. Highly recommend. Steak & Ale pie was delicious as was cheesecake of the day

Food seems greasier, noticed this on the last few visits. So bad sometimes its running out of the box. Small fish is getting smaller too. Shame, as we are about to move on to elsewhere so Herbies 'get a grip' to keep your customers!

Dining only, great food and service

Good service and lovely little garden.