The George Inn, Sandy Lane

Considering the restaurant was full by 9pm I could see the need for the newly-extended restaurant at the back of the pub as well as the need to book.

The George was built in the early 1700s and its recent refurbishment manages to retain its historical charm. The restaurant extends through from the pub with the fireplace and stone floors to a bright and airy conservatory. The exposed oak beams and wooden floors create a contemporary and rustic quality.

We ordered a selection of chef's specialities to start. They consisted of leek and stilton tart, mozzarella and tomato salad, tiger prawns in garlic butter and Italian cured meats. It was presented on a large plate alongside a board with a small loaf of olive bread, pot of pesto and dish of olives.

The tart was tasty but not too strong, while the cured meats and mozzarella salad went well with the home made pesto and warm bread.

I left Nick to contend with the prawns, as I am not keen on the shelling process.

Nick chose the 16 oz rump steak with homemade chips and salad and a side order of stilton sauce. He said his steak melted in the mouth but it should have been served on a larger plate as the meat on the top of the chips made them soggy.

My chicken, bacon and cashew nut salad was served with sautéed potatoes. Salad leaves tossed with the bacon and strips of chicken complimented the tangy dressing.

Nick decided against dessert, which is completely out of character, while I was tempted by profiteroles filled with vanilla ice cream and hot chocolate sauce.

They were as good as they looked, bursting with ice cream and glistening dark sauce.

I could only manage one of the profiteroles while back on form, Nick polished off the rest. The bill came to just under £50.

FACT FILE

Sandy Lane, near Devizes

• Car park
  
• All credit and debit cards accepted
  
• Beer garden
  
• New larger restaurant
  
• Extensive wine list
  
• Booking recommended
  
  (01380) 850403