Red Lion Lounge

My brother Greg and I were looking for a quick meal after checking into the Rampant Horse Hotel in Fakenham, and we're looking for a quick bite nearby. We didn't expect to find much in this town which has seen better times! But we were directed to the fabulous Red Lion Lounge( which looked like just another pub-- but wasn't!). The downstairs bar/ restaurant looked pretty smart, well lit and with an interesting menu. The vivacious manageress was friendly and helpful and, after a generous G and T, I ordered a pork chop, not expecting much, as did Greg( who is a hopeless Aussie carnivore). But what arrived was a succulent slab of tender pork, smothered in a home made simple tomato sauce, and a huge array of veggies. And tender stem broccoli is hard to keep green( but they did, finishing it under the grill). Sorry no photo, but I couldn't wait to eat it.. The dessert was even smarter, with Greg's dish accompanied by a beautiful edible inscription ( see photo). But he could no longer focus to read it, after polishing off a bottle of merlot by himself, after several beers... So if I'm anywhere near Norfolk again I would willingly drive 50 miles to Fakenham, on an empty stomach, to sample the delights of the Red Lion Lounge. It's not a pub, a cafe or snack bar; it has a talented chef, professional restaurant staff and a great menu in a Wild West town.

Stayed in fakenham for a few days. Our accommodation was around the corner from a well known cheap pub chain so we headed there for a quick drink and something to eat only to find they don't allow dogs, even outside so we walked on and found this place. Lovely spot for a lunchtime drink and a sandwich. Staff were great. Sandwiches were excellent. Dog friendly. All you could want really.

We booked a celebration in the function room for 35 guests. We were comfortably accomodated to a high standard. The landlady and her team went above and beyond to create a friendly but professional atmosphere and the food was of a high standard. Nothing was too much trouble and every effort was made to make the occasion a success . Thank you.