Review: The Talisman pub in Park Gate

The well-loved Park Gate pub welcomed punters back inside the pub this week following the completion of extensive works totalling £1.3 million.

I was invited to take a look around the pub and enjoy a meal with a guest, and as it was my mum's old stomping ground, it only seemed fair to bring her with me!

Instantly upon arrival, I recognised that the pub underwent a massive and frankly gorgeous transformation.

READ MORE: Doors temporarily closed at popular pub for major refurb

A beautiful mural created by artist Jody Thomas immediately greets you as you drive alongside the pub to reach the car park.

Even in the dark it caught my eye and was a clear indicator of how amazing the pub would look, inside and out.

The garden was beautifully decorated with ample outdoor seating, and a particular focal point is the pergola adorned with lights that guides you to the pub's entrance.

Forewarning, you may have to wait a few more sentences until I start talking about the food as the decor was so beautiful I feel I need to do it justice.

So, if you're not fussed about interior design, please scroll for a few seconds.

The inside of the pub is beautifully decorated.

The only way to describe it is like a house; one room is like the sociable living room and dining room, another a comfortable library/study, with the upgraded dining area full of cosy nooks and crannies.

There is a different atmosphere in each section of the pub, making it suitable for any occasion.

We were sat in the dining area in what could only be described as a funkily decorated extension, which reminded me of a porch, but much warmer and enjoyable to sit in.

Our seating area in the pub

After looking at the menu, I was immediately drawn to the Korean style plant burger.

This consisted of a glazed bun, gochujang and sesame mayo, shredded pak choi, crispy rice noodles, smoked cheese and triple cooked chips. I can say hands down it was one of the tastiest burgers I had ever eaten!

As a vegetarian, I am always on the hunt for burgers that are more than a squashed veggie patty with a slice of lettuce and I found that on Thursday night. 

The burger was packed to the brim and it was utterly flavoursome.

Something new and exciting graced my lips every time I took a bite and I felt full much sooner than I would have liked to.

But I was not dissuaded by the prospect of dessert (that's what a second stomach is for, right?).

I chose my all-time favourite dessert, sticky toffee pudding, and I was able to swap the normal ice cream for a dairy-free alternative.

The addition of caramelised walnuts made me wonder why that has never been done before, and I savoured every, warm mouthful. It was sweet, rich and tasty.

The Talisman is an extension of your favourite relative's home; it's cosy, exciting, intriguing, friendly and inviting.

The staff were extremely attentive, helpful and kind, and as I've said many times before, the food was simply delicious.

The Talisman pub is well worth a visit. You will not be disappointed.