It’s been a long time since we’ve been to The Malt Shovel in Horsham. We had plenty of reason to patronise this venue in the past due to the landlords generous sponsorship of our team. Unfortunately Steve passed away recently (incidentally so did our hockey team) and work committments have kept me away. However, last sunday (15th July 2007) a visit from an old team mate prompted a return. When we got there there was a 2 piece band playing laid back jazz and the effects of the smoking ban were evident. I wasn’t immediately sure what was different but I’m pretty sure it was a lack of cigarette smoke, a very welcome lack of cigarette smoke. I’m not a zealot, but after 2 years without a cigarette I have to say that I prefer my life to be that way; smoke free.

We ordered a couple of pints of Timothy Taylor Landlord which is right up there on my favourite bitters list and orange juice for my partner. Then we set about looking at the specials board. Just looking at it was enough to bring on a desire to eat. The menu was simple short and contained at least 4 main courses that I could have plumped for; cumberland sausages, liver and mash, roast beef and homemade burgers. Myself and my partner, somewhat out of character, went for the burger and our friend chose the roast beef. I asked the barmaid if I’d made a good decision and she acquiesced that I had. However, she seemed more enthusiastic about the roast beef and I almost changed my mind. Two diners near to us saw that I was struggling with my choice and piled in on the side of the roast beef. The gentleman diner described himself, not unrealistically, as a big man and stated that he had struggled to finish the beef and that it was very tasty indeed. I stuck to my guns.

Fifteen minutes later our meals arrived while we sipped our Timothy Taylors. Our burgers arrived in a somewhat oversized and dull bun, but were delicious and the chips were excellent and crispy. The beef we were told was as good as the ‘big man’ and the barmaid had suggested it would be, although our companion felt a little more gravy would have been welcome. All in all the food was simple, clean and delicious, the price was right, the service was friendly and the atmosphere was relaxed. I’ll admit that I was less enthusiastic about the beer. My Timothy Taylors was not great and the breakspeares I followed it with wasn’t better. Based on my knowledge of the way it was, I’m guessing this was an unlucky off-day.