It's early days for the Devonshire Arms, and it's only two weeks since it re-opened. The pub seems to have been quite busy, particularly at weekends (the good weather has helped, of course). But things are not all going smoothly.
I was involved in organising an event in Mellor last weekend. A few of the people involved said they might want to have a meal at the Devvy during their break, around 5.30 - 6.30 pm. I had popped in the previous day to check that this would be OK, and that they would be serving food at that time. 'No problem. said the barman. I asked if it was necessary to book, and he had a look at the bookings list and said no, although he added that booking is always a good idea.
On the day, about eight of our people people went to eat there, in ones and twos. It was quite busy but not full. A couple of them were able to have a meal, three or four others were told they could only have chips, and at least one was refused any food at all. I was very embarrassed, of course, because I had passed on the information that they would be able to eat and didn't need to book.
Then the other day some friends of ours who live in Longhurst Lane received a flier through the door welcoming them to the refurbished Devonshire Arms, and advertising food service until 9 pm every evening. Good idea, they thought, and they walked up to the pub last Tuesday, arriving about 8.20. They ordered drinks at the bar and asked for the menu. 'Sorry, we've stopped serving food now' was the reply. Needless to say they were very cross, and they won't be going to the Devvy again any time soon.
It's early days, and I'm sure these 'teething troubles' can be ironed out. Part of the problem could be the young and (probably) inexperienced staff, who need more supportive and pro-active management.
