The best restaurants in Forest of Dean South West

We thought we would try this place again based on positive comments from friends. Food and service on Valentine's Day were exceptional. Much better than the last time we went a few years ago under the previous management. We only live 2 minutes away and may now go back again after such a positive experience.

We had a lovely Chinese from here just recently, I am from the area and it always smells nice. Only downside is that you have to wait long after being told how long to wait, but the food is great.

Came across this cafe while doing a camping trip with the grandkids Wow wow wow. One of, if not the best breakfast I’ve had, food freshly made to order, amount was more than enough Cooked expertly Would I visit again, yer dam right I would 5 star and then some 👍👍👍👍

A beautiful serene spot to sit and indulge in coffee, cake or cooked food. Staff are extremely helpful , friendly and totally professional. A lovely inviting environment to sit and relax. A regular spot for my family and I to enjoy refreshments whilst walking our dogs. A dog friendly environment not to be missed. This cafe is extremely popular on the weekends due to visitors from outside the area.

My husband and I tried to get tea and cake yesterday afternoon. I am disabled and struggled into the garden to be met by a very unhelpful man who simply said 'its lunch' in response to my husband's polite query! When he enquired further, the response was: 'I'll get you a menu but if you just want tea, there's a tea bar over the road!' Needless to say we didn't bother or wait for the menu! Proprietor should remember it's the customers that keep businesses like this going and respond appropriately! Like another reviewer comments: Bring a packed lunch and enjoy the riverside beauty!!! The person we encountered was really rude and unhelpful!

Went to the restaurant as a groups of friends. A little hard to find the way in. It has the feel of an old club hall and bar. The young staff that were in were so polite and attentive. The food was delicious. I have roast beef with a massive Yorkshire pudding and amazing roast potatoes. The beefs seemed a little processed but still tasty. First place I have been to in ages that served enough gravy, sticky and tasty. Friends had chicken and peppercorn which they loved. Very lovely relaxing lunch

Visited in February 2025. Wonderful friendly staff and great food, prompt service. Bonus of free wi-fi code on the wall. Plenty of seats and space. Ample parking outside. Great visit thank you.

Very welcoming, accepts dogs, good English food, very reasonably priced and lovely service. Inside it’s a bit worn down and dated but didn’t bother us as it had everything we wanted.

There is no real possibility of leaving a review for the #9 fish-and-chip shop which no longer exists!

Having read the previous “suspiciously worded”reviews about the Golden Phoenix I have never had a problem with waiting times or the quality of the food. The previous review may have been google translated to max 😉 I have been a regular customer for three years.The food is fresh hot and very tasty. The menu is widely varied and the owners freely promote new dishes on the menu.. Tried the others in area with disappointing results. Unfortunately they don’t take cards and that in the current climate needs to change ASAP!

If you want perfection this is not the place for you... However, that said, we spent a lovely couple of nights, in a 12th century Inn. Adam and his team are lovely, friendly and more than helpful. The hot water in the room seemed a bit hit and miss but the room was clean and comfortable. On the whole we were made to feel very welcome and really enjoyed our visit. Thanks guys 😊

We were lucky enough to get a table here last week, and think it must be one of the best kept secrets in the Forest of Dean. We had chosen from the Christmas menu, every course was delicious, well presented on good china, and with decent cutlery - things that are an important element in a meal. It was lovely to see the students waiting at tables and cooking in the kitchen, whilst doing an excellent job. This restaurant deserves to be supported. We'll definintely be returning, and have already told many of our friends about it.

We was walking through the Docks heading towards the shopping centre when we came across this hidden gem. Im a fan of Subway especially steak and cheese on italian bread. You wouldnt expect to find a Subway in a convenience store but it was busy when we visited and i was more than happy with my lunch. The young lad behind the counter was helpful explaining the meal deals to me.

Had the hake which was excellent. Nice pub.

Popped in here when staying nearby on holiday… really delicious food, very much enjoyed it. Would highly recommend.