The goal of Jones Wood Foundry seems to be to transport you to jolly old England. Mission accomplished. Now, I’ve only been to England once so I’m not entirely sure if this gastropub is an accurate representation or a bit of a caricature, but it feels like they’ve hit the mark. Typically, in the US, a pub is just a basic, dark, bar where you don’t get fancy with the drinks. In England, however, I noticed that pubs still retain the sense of purpose from their public house origins. Yes, they’re often dark with basic offerings, but they feel more convivial – true gathering spaces. That’s more the vibe this places gives off.
The restaurant is divided into several areas, primarily the main bar, the dining room, and the garden. The overall feel is rustic yet stately – a place where you can get comfortable.
I got a scotch egg and the entrée sized steak tartar, which came with fries (I added a peppercorn sauce). I was very happy with everything I ate and boy do I love a scotch egg. Albert ordered an English breakfast, which comes with all the things. I’ll never want baked beans with breakfast (or ever, for that matter), but he very much enjoyed his traditional meal. Finn had bubble and squeak, along with some of the food from our plates. This was my first taste of bubble and squeak and it’s basically British home fries/hash. It’s chopped potatoes and cabbage tossed together and fried. It’s no Waffle House, but it’s dang good.
In case it matters, there’s no hard liquor here. That said, there is plentyyy of beer and wine (including cocktails) that you’re sure to find a bevvy you like.
Overall, Jones Wood Foundry is not just a place where you can get authentic British fare, it’s also a place where you can get an authentic British experience – whether that means settling into a garden table or watching soccer with your mates.
Peaches to Apples 