Despite the derisive expressions of Jeremy Clarkson in Top Gear, I always appreciated James May....for his simplicity, wierdness and downright honesty. No fancy stuff.
These celebrity pubs are really top notch much better than the celebrity chefs ones . Shoulder of lamb is my favourite and that looked stunning massive 10
Gary, what a gentleman you are. Down to earth, and, such an honest man. A rare breed to say the least. Love watching your content as it so relaxing humbling. I'm a massive foodie but as a result of anxiety and depression I struggle to eat at the best of times. But you inspire me to keep on going. And chase what I love. So thank you!
That means a lot Jay. I'm really sorry to hear about the anxiety and depression and just wish you all the best. Times can be difficult but all we can all do is persevere!!
Picture perfect location. Delicious food. 10/10 . What a real treat to watch. Thanks for taking us along with you. Absolutely fabulous. Thank you so very much.
I would have given a 10. I think larger deserts are not good in modern dining. Too much sugar is not a good think and appreciating the other aspects should be compensation enough.
The kitchen has got their stuff together. They look like they have a passion for the food they cook by the end result. Thanks for this review GaryEats !!!!
I like your channel because you go in little english and peaceful locations, and it's exactly my own philosophy of life (and i love ancient wood panel signs, it's absolutely beautiful), it's great to see villages that kept this traditional spirit. It's so full of life and soul.. Beside, i'm very happy to see someone stll able to appreciate the calm, the fresh air, the song of birds (it's true happiness!) while our society is too much captured by virtuality, smartphone and technology or need to have big shopping mall or nightclub to be happy. I'm french and i live in a big town, but my dream is to live in the countryside. But even outside in my town, I also always pay attention to the sound of the wind, the song of the birds and i keep my phone in my bag, because so many people are the noise in their phone, and don't realize anymore the presence of nature.. I find that it changes from the channels that goes mostly in big town and restaurants, with a big crowd.
In my opinion, some of the most impressive plating & presentation of any of your restaurants. A feast for the eyes and soul! The food looked amazing and as I used to tell the preschoolers I cooked for, "Dessert is not the meal" so a petite, beautifully prepared portion for me is a big thumbs up! I would've given a 10 out of 10 based on quality of the food and plating. Bravo to Mr. May for revitalizing and improving a local establishment!😊❤ Another wonderful video, Gary! (BTW - With your first bite of lamb, I said to myself, "If it's amazing, he's going to lean back in his chair" and you did! I knew things were going to be positive from that point forward.😊)
In a town where the wind whispers secrets sweet, Lived a man named Gary, with a hearty appetite to meet. With a fork for a wand and a spoon for a song, He danced through the day, never thinking it wrong. Gary eats with gusto, his palate knows no bounds, From crispy bacon mornings to moonlit seafood rounds. He feasts on laughter, savors every bite, With each meal a story, a journey in the night. In his kitchen, a symphony of sizzles and sighs, As flavors entwine beneath the starlit skies. He crafts culinary dreams, from dusk until dawn, In the tapestry of tastes, Gary's spirit lives on. So here's to Gary, the king of cuisine, Whose hunger for life is a sight to be seen. With each meal, a masterpiece, a work of art, Gary eats with passion, straight from the heart.
I never understand why some restaurants can give a small portion of something that really doesn't cost much. To make a slightly bigger spounge would cost pennies.
What a lovely country pub both inside & out. Delightful surrounding area too & terrific spring weather. How nice was that soup. Looked great & tasted fantastic ! The braised shoulder of lamb made my mouth water just looking at it ! Lamb is my favourite also. Lucky you for being able to taste it Gary. The presentation of each dish is a work of art. 10/10 to their Chef !
Sorry to use your comment to reply to all, the price of the dessert was £8.50 it tasted fantastic however as a portion I believe the sponge was small, the sorbet was almost the same size, I marked the restaurant as a 9.5, this wasn’t like I said an 8, if you are happy with that portion then perfect, this is just my personal opinion. Would I recommend definitely 💯
I thought that pud was the perfect size for the meal, who wants to be bloated after a meal. Great channel Gary, nice to see a knowledgeable 'everyman' reviewing food and not a ponce like we normally get. 👍
@@GaryEatsI thought the dessert portion size was perfectly fine, especially after a first and main. If price for the size is the problem then perhaps the restaurant could reduce the price a wee bit. I feel that way in a lot of restaurants. I’d rather pay a little less for a smaller dessert since I’m usually too full for dessert but want to try a dessert. 🏴🇺🇸
I am a recent subscriber and now addicted, love the variety of restaurants and locations and Gary's positivity even when he gives a negative review..lets watch the channel grow 🤗
The man in the white van wasn't lost, he was taking in his share of aroma and meal presentation. Probably considering a visit to the pub in a few day's time!
(85) Well, once again, I did "What would I get?" and was thrilled you chose the soup starter. I just ADORE asparagus and after nearly 25 years of badgering, got my husband to eat some (PROPERLY) cooked asparagus and now he's a convert. I thought about the lamb, but the Aubergine dish sounded too good to pass up. I'm NOT a fan of "floral" flavors (except a bit of orange blossom water or rose water every so often) so it would have been the British cheese board for me and a glass of wine. The burger you had on your first go seemed OK at best, but the a la carte dining is where this place seems to shine. Thanks for the upload (hope the van driver found his destination) and happy you got another winner!!!
So refreshing to see you enjoying fresh excellently cooked food Gary . I am sick of food channels showing guys cooking (lol)warming up frozen ready meals and pies etc expecting good food to cost nothing. I shop in Aldi and Lidl and buy fresh food to cook at home. These guys just eat greasy processed food unbelievable. Lamb looks delicious slow cooked amazing easy dish 4 /5 hours in the oven fantastic. It's good value in my books mate . Satisfying when you get great quality and don't mind paying for it. We have great food in this country yet so many people don't know how to prepare it. Cheers take care
Yes, when the weather is good (not often enough kkk) the English Countryside is hard to beat that’s for sure. It’s great that unlike 20+ years ago there are many country pubs serving really good food though this one, The Royal Oak is exceptional.
Excellent menu choice, Gary. They all looked like spring on a plate, and with the weather, and birds tweeting in the background, I was as relaxed as you were. I was a bit full by the time your pudding arrived just thinking about the first two dishes!
Thank you for your videos. I got a really bad last months and seeing you having that nice meals and hearing your voice makes me think that not all is falling apart and that in the world are still normal people living 😊
That to me was a quality posh pub dinning experience. Didn't expect Lamb shoulder to be presented like that. Shredded and a ramakin cooking process. Loved all ingredients Soup looked delightful. Thank you for the video. Its a 9. from me for that three course splendour.
Lamb would have been braised, 'pulled', rolled tightly in cling film to form large sausage type shapes while still warm, chilled, then portioned and reheated
@GaryEats you stated that you welcome any suggestions. You keep stating that you've put a little bit of weight on. Well, I always say, never trust a skinny food critic or observer. Food has never really been important to me, probably because I lived in Holland for 15 years before meeting my missus, and now in Brazil. I stumbled across your videos and can't stop watching them. I am very enjoyable and hope you have every success in the future, mate. Come on England 🏴
Bravo Gary! What a great place! For the first time, I have to disagree with you on the portion size of the dessert. I often share a dessert after such a meal because I’m pretty full but want just a little something sweet to end the meal. I thought the dessert was perfect! The food looked extraordinary. Your review as well. So nice to see you enjoy yourself on such beautiful day. Loved this episode, your channel keeps getting better and better! As always, Linda from Laguna 😊😊🏄🏻♀️🏄🏻♀️🐳🐳🧜🏼♀️🧜🏼♀️💕💕
See, now I thought that was enough dessert🤷🏻♀️. Anyway, enjoyed watching. Seemed like such a relaxed, and charming place to spend an afternoon! Thanks
That’s what a country pub should be like. Really looked great…..think you were slightly harsh over the sponge size! At least you didn’t knock them down a point for the van passing by!!
Its cruel Mr G whilst i am on a ready made lasagne n garlic bread😮 that looked darn yummy. Lamb is a winner for me too. Ty for sharing 🎉 and yes a big 👍 to Mr May 🎉
@@GaryEats Haha, thanks for replying.😆 That is respectful (to not film other customers)...a lot of youtubers just start filming. It's not _illegal_ per se, but some people just don't want to be on camera.
@@GaryEats They might have heard you mention you were putting on a bit of timber in your intro. Congratulations on your presentational style. Absolutely first class. I hope you share some of the food with your cameraman.
@@GaryEats its the cost of it, you could have taken some home to enjoy half another day. putting timber on lol haha , funny expression, go with your gut.
It looks amazing to me. How pub food has changed. Truly beautiful presentation, and it looked absolutely delicious. Well done, The Royal Oak. I'm glad that you had a good time.
What I love about your reviews are There’s no gimmicks or loud over the top personality. You’re almost like a food critic that the masses can relate too. I still can’t recommend anywhere in Oxford though without getting ripped off. Keep up the great work.
Presentation and expertise in keeping it simple yet also devinely mourish and that tenderness is just excellent. They should be really happy with this. Nice one.
for once gary could cross the road without being chased by cars and he appreciated it, love the subtle humor😂👍 the food looked gorgeous and was obviously made with love, wow!
Of all the reviews you done Gary, this one strangely caught my eye the most, and I've probably watched 99% of them. For some reason, the more I looked, the more I fell in love with this idyllic countryside pub. Absolutely agree, would be lovely to visit on a hot summers day with the smell of the fresh countryside breeze, even to just call in for a tipple. I wasn't expecting such high quality food to be served in such a quaint little pub. Head chef, Jonny Sutcliffe, and the team certainly know how to deliver when it comes to quality cuisine. Every dish looked spectacular. It certainly looked like you enjoyed the food, no arguments there. Not so sure I would have deducted half a point on the dessert, but then again, I'm more of a 'starters and main' type of guy. Possibly a 10 for me, but it's difficult to judge, as you would need to be there experiencing everything first hand in order to give a true score. What I do like though is that every dish created, is made from fresh locally sourced produce. This means the menu changes frequently in accordance to what is in season at the time. So the next time you visit, there is a high probability you will be presented with a range of fresh new dishes. For me, this adds to the excitement when returning, instead of mulling over the same old menu. Price wise, giving the status of being a celebrity owned pub, I would have expected it to be a lot more expensive. I could imagine sourcing their ingredients locally helps keep the price down, along with strategic and versatile thinking when creating a menu. If you take for example their 8oz flat iron steak, an excellent alternative to more expensive cuts like ribeye and sirloin. Hats off to James May for the investment and teaming up with landlord Chris Byett. They transformed this once rough, over-grown and neglected building into the perfect little, world renowned, gem it is today. Their website provides an insight into the history of the bulding from c.1705 to present, along with spectacular pictures. For me, knowing a little about the history of the restaurant certainly adds to the experience. If I ever make it to that neck of the woods, I will definitely make this a stop over and make use of one of those luxury rooms. Gary, you never disappoint. Your reviews are as honest as anyone can make them and as always, look forward to seeing the next one. From me and all your viewers, thank you so much.
I really appreciate this wonderful comment. I think the setting with the weather, the birds and the village contribute to a wonderful atmosphere and experience.
I seem to have started a Sunday binge on your videos today 😂 Thank you for them, you are such a kind person, and you really enjoy your food. The food is so different and it's been a pleasure to see your puddings, curries and sauce, through your eyes. Thank you ❤
That soup looked really good as did the lamb. Shoulder of Lamb is my favourite meat for a roast dinner so I would have ordered that! It's so succulent. That was a very good dish. I would have been very happy with that. I really think that pudding was as pretty as a picture. My aunt in Australia used to make lemon curd and I have always loved it! The whole meal was worth every penny. It's a 10. Thanks for taking us here Gary.
Gary, I expect that you are a very gratifying person to cook for - chefs must love watching these videos (most of them, anywsy). So glad you had a wonderful experience in a beautiful place with a fabulous meal.
There once was a man named Gary Who's pursuit for good food ne'er did tarry From starter to meal, from amount to good deal And his viewers he did leave merry
Loved this video, I live near Salisbury and often travel to Swallowcliff, due to major allergies and dietary constraints I can’t eat any cooked food and live of fruit and raw veg so it I love seeing you really enjoy your experiences eating such amazing foods, I remember when I could and I miss it so much, I have never been jealous of anything, but maybe this is the first time 😂… keep up the great work you are amazing ( your camera man/women too!) ❤
Your channel is such a delight, as are you, Sir. With each passing post you make me miss the UK terribly. I love having this with which to compare the new pub/compound of Jeremy Clarkson.
8.50 for a desert plate of this quality, looks and taste is by no means too much, in my opinion. The various different ingredients, the assembly and the size make it the perfect ending to any meal. What a chef they have in that kitchen, that's proper Gault-Millau, maybe even Michelin stuff. 10/10
Hey Gary, thanks for another great review. So glad you returned to JM’s pub, the food looked tremendous. Definitely a 10/10 for me…presentation, value and quality there for all to appreciate. The lamb looked perfect. Another observation, not only was the soup served with bread, but a proper soup spoon too…as it should be. I’ve said it before and I will say it again, best YT channel mate!
Thanks for the review Gary. Personally, from your review I thought it was a score of 10. When you get the flavours, presentation and quality ingredients, in a lovely setting I couldn’t ask for more. Glad you enjoyed it.
Beautiful location, food and a lovely day to review it. Would be the perfect place to try when out foraging for wild herbs and berries on a countryside stroll if it's allowed around there. And you're right Gary, keep the 10⭐️'s for the ones that nail everything. Top notch review as usual. 👍👍
As a trained chef i can say that the plating is really a work of art.
Definitely going to plan a visit. I give it a 10/10
As a chef I really respect your score thank you
Despite the derisive expressions of Jeremy Clarkson in Top Gear, I always appreciated James May....for his simplicity, wierdness and downright honesty. No fancy stuff.
I think James has done a great job
10/10 from me for the cuisine. and a beautiful English countryside pub. Unbeatable. Tourists need to visit here.
I agree Nigel 👌
Why?
@@justthetruth1 To ruin it for the locals and the English, of course!
@@timmellor2599😂
10 all day from me. What a beautiful place. I get sceptical about celebrity owners but James May really has done something special there.
Steve I agree he has done a fantastic job
These celebrity pubs are really top notch much better than the celebrity chefs ones . Shoulder of lamb is my favourite and that looked stunning massive 10
I said that to the cameraman, they seem to get the correct chefs in 😃
Gary, what a gentleman you are. Down to earth, and, such an honest man. A rare breed to say the least. Love watching your content as it so relaxing humbling. I'm a massive foodie but as a result of anxiety and depression I struggle to eat at the best of times. But you inspire me to keep on going. And chase what I love. So thank you!
That means a lot Jay. I'm really sorry to hear about the anxiety and depression and just wish you all the best. Times can be difficult but all we can all do is persevere!!
Picture perfect location. Delicious food. 10/10 . What a real treat to watch. Thanks for taking us along with you. Absolutely fabulous. Thank you so very much.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for the lovely comment
@@GaryEats "hand cut cups" AKA inconsistently cut chips for inconsistently cooked chips!
I would have given a 10. I think larger deserts are not good in modern dining. Too much sugar is not a good think and appreciating the other aspects should be compensation enough.
The kitchen has got their stuff together. They look like they have a passion for the food they cook by the end result. Thanks for this review GaryEats !!!!
Didn't surprise me James may always been a class person beautifull thank you.
He runs an excellent pub Charles
I like your channel because you go in little english and peaceful locations, and it's exactly my own philosophy of life (and i love ancient wood panel signs, it's absolutely beautiful), it's great to see villages that kept this traditional spirit. It's so full of life and soul.. Beside, i'm very happy to see someone stll able to appreciate the calm, the fresh air, the song of birds (it's true happiness!) while our society is too much captured by virtuality, smartphone and technology or need to have big shopping mall or nightclub to be happy. I'm french and i live in a big town, but my dream is to live in the countryside. But even outside in my town, I also always pay attention to the sound of the wind, the song of the birds and i keep my phone in my bag, because so many people are the noise in their phone, and don't realize anymore the presence of nature.. I find that it changes from the channels that goes mostly in big town and restaurants, with a big crowd.
Thank you! I really love going to places like this!
In my opinion, some of the most impressive plating & presentation of any of your restaurants. A feast for the eyes and soul! The food looked amazing and as I used to tell the preschoolers I cooked for, "Dessert is not the meal" so a petite, beautifully prepared portion for me is a big thumbs up! I would've given a 10 out of 10 based on quality of the food and plating. Bravo to Mr. May for revitalizing and improving a local establishment!😊❤ Another wonderful video, Gary! (BTW - With your first bite of lamb, I said to myself, "If it's amazing, he's going to lean back in his chair" and you did! I knew things were going to be positive from that point forward.😊)
The presentation was absolutely spectacular, some of the best I’ve seen on the channel!
That lamb did look delicious...the plating was exceptional. Thanks Gary
Glad you enjoyed it and couldn’t agree more with you
I can understand why ewe thought the lamb looked delicious!
@@matthewetheridge4535 hahahaha good one 👍
In a town where the wind whispers secrets sweet,
Lived a man named Gary, with a hearty appetite to meet.
With a fork for a wand and a spoon for a song,
He danced through the day, never thinking it wrong.
Gary eats with gusto, his palate knows no bounds,
From crispy bacon mornings to moonlit seafood rounds.
He feasts on laughter, savors every bite,
With each meal a story, a journey in the night.
In his kitchen, a symphony of sizzles and sighs,
As flavors entwine beneath the starlit skies.
He crafts culinary dreams, from dusk until dawn,
In the tapestry of tastes, Gary's spirit lives on.
So here's to Gary, the king of cuisine,
Whose hunger for life is a sight to be seen.
With each meal, a masterpiece, a work of art,
Gary eats with passion, straight from the heart.
Brilliant 🎉🎉🎉
My favourite comment thank you
That’s absolutely brilliant and spot on to 😃😃
@@GaryEatsthat’s a comment that will never be beaten ever 🤣🤣
Brilliant stuff haha
I never understand why some restaurants can give a small portion of something that really doesn't cost much. To make a slightly bigger spounge would cost pennies.
Could be because of the balance in flavours between the different ingredients. In the end, Gary did not go home hungry 😂
Same thing with small chip portions. Makes such a big difference to the customer for such a small cost.
@@markhill8150Hello to you. Your comment, I've also often thought that myself.
Peace to all.
@oliverdots Hello to you. I fully agree with your comment. I've often thought the same.
Peace to all.
As a pastry Chef in my opinion that’s a perfectly normal potion,and many people would not eat it all.
What a lovely country pub both inside & out. Delightful surrounding area too & terrific spring weather. How nice was that soup. Looked great & tasted fantastic ! The braised shoulder of lamb made my mouth water just looking at it ! Lamb is my favourite also. Lucky you for being able to taste it Gary. The presentation of each dish is a work of art. 10/10 to their Chef !
Thank you Robert I agree congratulations to the excellent chef 🧑🍳
That soup looked beautiful
10 all day. Sponge/sorbet/lemon curd proportions were perfect. You tight git, Gary 😊
Hi James, I enjoyed you in Top Gear.
It was a full ten
Totally agree with you, that was a defo 10/10 Gary just being mean and nit picking.
I agree he wants quantity over Quality
Sorry to use your comment to reply to all, the price of the dessert was £8.50 it tasted fantastic however as a portion I believe the sponge was small, the sorbet was almost the same size, I marked the restaurant as a 9.5, this wasn’t like I said an 8, if you are happy with that portion then perfect, this is just my personal opinion. Would I recommend definitely 💯
I thought that pud was the perfect size for the meal, who wants to be bloated after a meal. Great channel Gary, nice to see a knowledgeable 'everyman' reviewing food and not a ponce like we normally get. 👍
That is very kind to say thank you very much, Gary and maybe I was harsh on this occasion
@@GaryEatsI thought the dessert portion size was perfectly fine, especially after a first and main. If price for the size is the problem then perhaps the restaurant could reduce the price a wee bit. I feel that way in a lot of restaurants. I’d rather pay a little less for a smaller dessert since I’m usually too full for dessert but want to try a dessert. 🏴🇺🇸
Stunning countryside landscape, delicious food, big portions and a relatively affordable price. Definitely worth visiting.
I agree this is worth making a trip 👌
It's always such a joy to see you enjoy good food.
Thank you so much, this was spectacular
I am a recent subscriber and now addicted, love the variety of restaurants and locations and Gary's positivity even when he gives a negative review..lets watch the channel grow 🤗
I really appreciate that thank you Alison
The man in the white van wasn't lost, he was taking in his share of aroma and meal presentation. Probably considering a visit to the pub in a few day's time!
LOL brilliant Roger
Congratulations James May!! Absolutely Magnificent 💯!! Cheers 🍸!!
I agree with you completely, James
(85) Well, once again, I did "What would I get?" and was thrilled you chose the soup starter. I just ADORE asparagus and after nearly 25 years of badgering, got my husband to eat some (PROPERLY) cooked asparagus and now he's a convert. I thought about the lamb, but the Aubergine dish sounded too good to pass up. I'm NOT a fan of "floral" flavors (except a bit of orange blossom water or rose water every so often) so it would have been the British cheese board for me and a glass of wine. The burger you had on your first go seemed OK at best, but the a la carte dining is where this place seems to shine. Thanks for the upload (hope the van driver found his destination) and happy you got another winner!!!
Another huge asparagus fan, that’s great to hear
So refreshing to see you enjoying fresh excellently cooked food Gary .
I am sick of food channels showing guys cooking (lol)warming up frozen ready meals and pies etc expecting good food to cost nothing.
I shop in Aldi and Lidl and buy fresh food to cook at home.
These guys just eat greasy processed food unbelievable.
Lamb looks delicious slow cooked amazing easy dish 4 /5 hours in the oven fantastic.
It's good value in my books mate .
Satisfying when you get great quality and don't mind paying for it.
We have great food in this country yet so many people don't know how to prepare it.
Cheers take care
Thank you so much Jono, take care of yourself
I feel for the cameraman 🤣🤣 he has a lot of patience
I wonder if the cameraman gets fed too
Cameraman always getting fed by Gary😂
@@sivabalasingham9918 🤣
Yes either that, or the lost style twist will be he is a she...
@tonynewman3631it’s just a contraption that is hooked to strings and pulleys and controlled by Gary’s feet
I am so in love with the English country side. Another great review Gray. Thank you so! Blessings from Texas,USA. 👍😊❤. 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Yes, when the weather is good (not often enough kkk) the English Countryside is hard to beat that’s for sure. It’s great that unlike 20+ years ago there are many country pubs serving really good food though this one, The Royal Oak is exceptional.
You are such an honest foodie. Love it.
That’s very kind to say, Robert thank you
Now, that is top notch food, beautifully presented, with the idyllic English countryside setting. Excellent stuff Gary!
Thank you very much Sean 👌
So pleased to see this pop up just now. Gonna grab a beer, sit back and enjoy this, that's for sure 😁
Have a great evening and enjoy your 🍺
Excellent menu choice, Gary. They all looked like spring on a plate, and with the weather, and birds tweeting in the background, I was as relaxed as you were. I was a bit full by the time your pudding arrived just thinking about the first two dishes!
Thank you so much and appreciate you commenting. I hope the birds tweeting in the background added to the atmosphere Adrian
You're really spoiling us with all this content Gary. Thank you and your long suffering cameraman.
Don’t think the long suffering cameraman wasn’t on this video was he Gazza
Thank you very much and the cameraman’s absolutely fine, he films on every video and eats well 👌
@@GaryEats just been to IKEA Gazza that dime bar cheese cake is damm 💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦💦
Superb isnt it Wayne?
Always look forward to the notification of a new review. A fair and passionate review every time. Thank you Gary
That’s very kind and appreciated David thank you
Instant 10/10 for being Dog friendly. They also have a heart defibrillator outside.
Thank you for your videos.
I got a really bad last months and seeing you having that nice meals and hearing your voice makes me think that not all is falling apart and that in the world are still normal people living 😊
I really really hope things improve for you dramatically please take care
I feel that the Joy on your face, at multiple times, says it all... I hope to one day be able to enjoy that pubs food!
This is definitely a pub I would recommend
That to me was a quality posh pub dinning experience. Didn't expect Lamb shoulder to be presented like that. Shredded and a ramakin cooking process.
Loved all ingredients Soup looked delightful. Thank you for the video. Its a 9. from me for that three course splendour.
Lamb would have been braised, 'pulled', rolled tightly in cling film to form large sausage type shapes while still warm, chilled, then portioned and reheated
@@ashku27 Would you add gelatine/aspic like you would with a terrine? Thank you.
@@pab777 It doesn't need it if rolled super tightly. Adding a touch of reduced braising liquor will help though.
This was great cooking with fabulous presentation 👌
Live in Brazil now, but English country pubs in the summer are something I really miss. There's nothing better in the whole world! Cheers.
I agree with you completely
@GaryEats you stated that you welcome any suggestions. You keep stating that you've put a little bit of weight on. Well, I always say, never trust a skinny food critic or observer. Food has never really been important to me, probably because I lived in Holland for 15 years before meeting my missus, and now in Brazil. I stumbled across your videos and can't stop watching them. I am very enjoyable and hope you have every success in the future, mate. Come on England 🏴
Bravo Gary! What a great place! For the first time, I have to disagree with you on the portion size of the dessert. I often share a dessert after such a meal because I’m pretty full but want just a little something sweet to end the meal. I thought the dessert was perfect! The food looked extraordinary. Your review as well. So nice to see you enjoy yourself on such beautiful day. Loved this episode, your channel keeps getting better and better! As always, Linda from Laguna 😊😊🏄🏻♀️🏄🏻♀️🐳🐳🧜🏼♀️🧜🏼♀️💕💕
You couldn’t share this one Linda as was a little small, how are you keeping and all good in Laguna Beech 🇺🇸 x
@@GaryEatsYes restaurants get away with small portions, arguing that’s what their women customers prefer
The food was a visual feast and the pub itself looked lovely - tempting !
It was excellent cooking and wonderful food, Louise
Worth every penny. Looked absolutely fantastic
It was fantastic
Apart from the food which is excellent! I see a defibrillator on the wall. Now that is care and thought too.
That is a very good point John thank you
@@GaryEats Just the way I think. Had to help a Bloke in Blackpool a few years ago. He lived but one of those would have been priceless!
See, now I thought that was enough dessert🤷🏻♀️. Anyway, enjoyed watching. Seemed like such a relaxed, and charming place to spend an afternoon! Thanks
Thank you Sandria and completely understand that, just looked small in my opinion
@@GaryEats and that is why it’s ’Gary Eats’ not Sandria Eats😉.
Have eaten there often,never had a bad meal.lovely setting.
@@amandavokins5958 😊
That’s what a country pub should be like.
Really looked great…..think you were slightly harsh over the sponge size!
At least you didn’t knock them down a point for the van passing by!!
Spot on and maybe a bit harsh!!
Yes expensive but all local products. The pork sausage roll looked lovely. The lamb looked good too 😋😋.
It was excellent
Looks like the perfect spot to sit outside and ❤enjoy a meal with family and friends .
I agree with you completely a fantastic spot
Its cruel Mr G whilst i am on a ready made lasagne n garlic bread😮 that looked darn yummy. Lamb is a winner for me too. Ty for sharing 🎉 and yes a big 👍 to Mr May 🎉
I’m having Lasagne tonight lol 😂
@@GaryEats haha tbf it was ok...hope yours is home made tho..i do a mean one in the slow cooker!..enjoy Mr G ...🥂🍽🍷
Amazing you had the place to yourself (compared to the Clarkson's pub I just watched).
Food looked superb!
We try not to film other customers, it was actually very busy, especially when I left, thinking about that, maybe it was me lol 😂
@@GaryEats
Haha, thanks for replying.😆
That is respectful (to not film other customers)...a lot of youtubers just start filming. It's not _illegal_ per se, but some people just don't want to be on camera.
@@drumstick74 *per se
@@JimCarner777
Thanks! Edited and corrected.
@@drumstick74 You're welcome. Have a good one.
Most dinners if they had your three courses would have been fine with the desert portion size, and would have gone 10/10.
Maybe I was a little harsh Charles
@@GaryEats They might have heard you mention you were putting on a bit of timber in your intro. Congratulations on your presentational style. Absolutely first class. I hope you share some of the food with your cameraman.
@@GaryEats its the cost of it, you could have taken some home to enjoy half another day. putting timber on lol haha , funny expression, go with your gut.
It looks amazing to me. How pub food has changed. Truly beautiful presentation, and it looked absolutely delicious. Well done, The Royal Oak. I'm glad that you had a good time.
I agree congratulations to the pub Sylvia
Love hearing those birds in the background. Seeing this is an antidote to a cold winters English day.
It’s a great sound
The whole meal looked really good. Presentation was excellent and the portions looked very good to me.
Thank you 😋
Absolutely perfect 10/10 and the presentation 10 plus cheers Gary
Thank you Ray
How can you give this a 10? Yes, the food is quality but the portion sizes aren’t going to fill up majority of people.
@RealistGunner it will fill me up, but I'm old
Another great review Gary i certainly miss quality UK pub food here in Brazil.
This was quality Terry 🇧🇷
Me too in Gascony, France.
What I love about your reviews are There’s no gimmicks or loud over the top personality. You’re almost like a food critic that the masses can relate too. I still can’t recommend anywhere in Oxford though without getting ripped off.
Keep up the great work.
That’s a really fantastic comment thank you very much
Presentation and expertise in keeping it simple yet also devinely mourish and that tenderness is just excellent. They should be really happy with this. Nice one.
The chef needs a Pat on the back
Always look forward to your videos, Gary. Chicken soup for the soul, mate. Paul xxx.
Cheers 🍻 Paul x
@@GaryEats: Pleasure, pal xxx.
for once gary could cross the road without being chased by cars and he appreciated it, love the subtle humor😂👍
the food looked gorgeous and was obviously made with love, wow!
Thank you as always have a fantastic weekend
you too gary!
That looks great and a+++ they’ve got a defib outside!
Good point Robin
Of all the reviews you done Gary, this one strangely caught my eye the most, and I've probably watched 99% of them.
For some reason, the more I looked, the more I fell in love with this idyllic countryside pub. Absolutely agree, would be lovely to visit on a hot summers day with the smell of the fresh countryside breeze, even to just call in for a tipple.
I wasn't expecting such high quality food to be served in such a quaint little pub. Head chef, Jonny Sutcliffe, and the team certainly know how to deliver when it comes to quality cuisine. Every dish looked spectacular. It certainly looked like you enjoyed the food, no arguments there.
Not so sure I would have deducted half a point on the dessert, but then again, I'm more of a 'starters and main' type of guy. Possibly a 10 for me, but it's difficult to judge, as you would need to be there experiencing everything first hand in order to give a true score.
What I do like though is that every dish created, is made from fresh locally sourced produce. This means the menu changes frequently in accordance to what is in season at the time. So the next time you visit, there is a high probability you will be presented with a range of fresh new dishes. For me, this adds to the excitement when returning, instead of mulling over the same old menu.
Price wise, giving the status of being a celebrity owned pub, I would have expected it to be a lot more expensive. I could imagine sourcing their ingredients locally helps keep the price down, along with strategic and versatile thinking when creating a menu. If you take for example their 8oz flat iron steak, an excellent alternative to more expensive cuts like ribeye and sirloin.
Hats off to James May for the investment and teaming up with landlord Chris Byett. They transformed this once rough, over-grown and neglected building into the perfect little, world renowned, gem it is today.
Their website provides an insight into the history of the bulding from c.1705 to present, along with spectacular pictures. For me, knowing a little about the history of the restaurant certainly adds to the experience.
If I ever make it to that neck of the woods, I will definitely make this a stop over and make use of one of those luxury rooms.
Gary, you never disappoint. Your reviews are as honest as anyone can make them and as always, look forward to seeing the next one. From me and all your viewers, thank you so much.
I really appreciate this wonderful comment. I think the setting with the weather, the birds and the village contribute to a wonderful atmosphere and experience.
Presentation is awesome when food looks good and tastes good the experience is whole !!!
I agree with you completely
Treat to watch, will definitely visit the Royal Oak!
Very good and thank you
I always look forward to your videos Gary.😊
So nice of you Sally
Why isn't Gary dancing around a MAYPOLE ready for the sacrifice like WOODWARD in Wicker man
That's an idea. Singed cuckoo and flame-grilled manchops... "Let's give it a go..."
😳😂
Lovely to go for a treat what a beautiful meal I'm genuinely overwhelmed in how good it all looks 😊
It's so good!
Your reviews are so calming and thorough! ❤
Thank you very much
Worth the ticket just for the lamb🎉made my mouth water literally nice one ❤️
The lamb was sensational
Wonderful and a perfect score Gary.
Thank you very much as always, Bob
Fabulous… anyone who can step in and save a pub is ok by me …. That statement you made … a true Brit. 👍
I agree completely
I seem to have started a Sunday binge on your videos today 😂
Thank you for them, you are such a kind person, and you really enjoy your food.
The food is so different and it's been a pleasure to see your puddings, curries and sauce, through your eyes. Thank you ❤
Thank you very much, glad you're enjoying the videos
That soup looked really good as did the lamb. Shoulder of Lamb is my favourite meat for a roast dinner so I would have ordered that! It's so succulent. That was a very good dish. I would have been very happy with that.
I really think that pudding was as pretty as a picture. My aunt in Australia used to make lemon curd and I have always loved it!
The whole meal was worth every penny. It's a 10.
Thanks for taking us here Gary.
You’re more than welcome Andrew and a great comment
Lamb looks stupendous ❤
It was top John
When you said: "The phrase," I instantly said: "Melt in your mouth."
I know! I said it instantly, as in without stuttering! How good!
The lamb was sensational
I have to visit the Royal Oak. Looks amazing
It is definitely worth a visit
What a sensational 3 course meal. Thank you for reviewing a real winner here !
It was excellent
Gary, I expect that you are a very gratifying person to cook for - chefs must love watching these videos (most of them, anywsy).
So glad you had a wonderful experience in a beautiful place with a fabulous meal.
Thank you Heidi I really appreciate the work that goes into creating fantastic food 👌
Looked really nicely presented quality food.
It was definitely that Richard
There once was a man named Gary
Who's pursuit for good food ne'er did tarry
From starter to meal, from amount to good deal
And his viewers he did leave merry
Lol
lol all of these poems 🤣
Don’t forget to feed the cameraman😂
He is my son and I always feed him
The amount of sponge was very appreciate when taking into account the entire presentation. Cheers
👍👍
Loved this video, I live near Salisbury and often travel to Swallowcliff, due to major allergies and dietary constraints I can’t eat any cooked food and live of fruit and raw veg so it I love seeing you really enjoy your experiences eating such amazing foods, I remember when I could and I miss it so much, I have never been jealous of anything, but maybe this is the first time 😂… keep up the great work you are amazing ( your camera man/women too!) ❤
I am really sorry to hear about your allergies, this was a wonderful pub and well done to James
That Lamb looked amazing 😮
So good!it was fantastic 💯 George
Solid stuff. Wholesome channel bro
Thank you very much
Nooooo. That dessert was fine (oink oink) Harsh. 10/10
I agree, but I'm not sure why RUclips offered to translate your comment to English 🤔
No problem 🐷
For £8.50 the size was a tad small. Had they charged a little less, I M sure Gary wouldn't have dinged them. Seems like a value for money issue.
Your channel is such a delight, as are you, Sir. With each passing post you make me miss the UK terribly. I love having this with which to compare the new pub/compound of Jeremy Clarkson.
Thank you so much Julie, take care
I've only recently discovered your channel and I'm enjoying your reviews. Great job!!
Awesome, thank you!
Being harsh personally the desert seemed enough especially that quality
Yes I was harsh on this one Tony
Should have been a 10 +, knocking off just because u thought the sponge was too small, definitely unfair
Maybe I was a bit harsh Mark but still a great score 🤷♂️
Not at all if it's small then it doesn't reflect on the customer more the selfishness of the owners! Those ingredients are cheap to buy!
James may is a great man 💯
I`ve got a story about James May that would twist yer melon...sadly not repeatable here due to graphic and adult content.
I think he is a great character 💯
8.50 for a desert plate of this quality, looks and taste is by no means too much, in my opinion. The various different ingredients, the assembly and the size make it the perfect ending to any meal. What a chef they have in that kitchen, that's proper Gault-Millau, maybe even Michelin stuff. 10/10
I agree the cooking was exceptional 👌
You are a legend Gary. Beautiful review in every respect. The pudding portions were perfect however and we demand a re-count. 😊
I do apologise, maybe a 9.5 👍😂🤔
Quality place, quality food
Fully agree with you John
1 star for anywhere thats permits dogs into areas where you are eating
Lots of areas outside where dogs would not be annoying you, Wayne
@@GaryEats dogs and people eating should not go together..people love their animals and loose hair and dog mess, but I don't
Brilliant, Gary. A 10 from me. Thumbs up to James too.
I agree with you Dale well done Mr May
Hey Gary, thanks for another great review. So glad you returned to JM’s pub, the food looked tremendous. Definitely a 10/10 for me…presentation, value and quality there for all to appreciate. The lamb looked perfect. Another observation, not only was the soup served with bread, but a proper soup spoon too…as it should be. I’ve said it before and I will say it again, best YT channel mate!
My pleasure Virgil. Thank you so much and appreciate you commenting
Thanks for the review Gary. Personally, from your review I thought it was a score of 10. When you get the flavours, presentation and quality ingredients, in a lovely setting I couldn’t ask for more. Glad you enjoyed it.
Fair enough Richard. As I said, would be more than happy to give it a 10.
Beautiful location, food and a lovely day to review it. Would be the perfect place to try when out foraging for wild herbs and berries on a countryside stroll if it's allowed around there. And you're right Gary, keep the 10⭐️'s for the ones that nail everything. Top notch review as usual. 👍👍
That’s very kind and appreciated thank you
@Gary Eats I will give it 10 my reason all three courses were beautifully presented and they looked fab .
Great score Simon 👌
Wow wow wow the pudding too looks incredible all in all what a fantastic meal you lucky sod 😋👍
Thank you 😋
Hey, a celebrity restaurant that actually delivers!
Well, as one might expect from James May. Standard!
Totally delicious and well done to James and his team
Love what you do with your hands Gary , they are always busy , your hand gesticulating really adds to your channel 👍
Thanks Alan, I do try and calm them down at times 👍