"I have been going to The Derby Arms for years on and off since I was,18. The last time I sat in the room primarily used for diners I was with my family so it was a little emotional for me. The decor has changed but not the bricks and mortar. I don 't consider myself to be 'local ' anymore hence I could detect that the busy bar had a local edge to it. Not unfriendly, but the feeling that everyone knows everyone else. This is not necessarily a bad thing and everyone is kind and thoughtful which reflects the community itself. Over the years the food in the pub has gone from mediocre to outstanding depending on the chef in the kitchen. I know my mother would comment critically sometimes. However, I am delighted to report the that on this visit the service was brilliant and the food really superb. Front of house was really kind getting me a table as the resteraunt was heavily booked...and I can see why. Evening food is served from 5pm onwards and lunch is also available. The dining area is spotless and really comfortable with attentive staff who will bring drinks to your table. It 's a very homely atmosphere. I wasn 't visiting for a special occasion, I just popped in on my own but I was made to feel special. The food was just great, my 8oz sirloin spot on in terms of taste and how it was cooked. Really lovely. Now this is not a fair comparison, but stay with me. I had the misfortune to be reminded during to a chicken based fast food resteraunt in St. Helens how incredibly expensive it can be to 'eat out ' and having to endure terrible food served with an air of disdane in an atmosphere of artificial, disposable detachment. Given the above experience, when I got the final bill from the Derby Arms which included two delightful drinks and two outstanding courses, wonderful atmosphere, caring service and other customers who said hello...only a real fool would even consider visiting the former place to eat. I guess, I am using this comparison to say, that at a time when we are having to make cuts and difficult choices, there are still places you can really enjoy, that serve peerless food and offer great value for money. I am delighted The Derby Arms still has its sparkle, its class and its soul. Thank you for bringing back happy memories and making a new one. Best wishes, Paul."
