Every once in a while diners have the opportunity to experience an award-winning restaurant that brings home just how enjoyable eating out can be. The Cross at Kenilworth excels on every count and must rank as one of the best dining pubs in the region.

You could be forgiven for thinking this was just an ordinary pub, a short walk from the main town, tucked away in a typical country village side street – but a glimpse of the picturesque terraced patio area at the rear, adorned with blooming planters and trees, reveals a truly special setting for alfresco dining on a balmy summer evening.

Inside is just as enjoyable, and we took our Sunday lunch in one of two spacious, bright and modern main restaurant areas. The à la carte menu offers a full range of tempting dishes, from prime Hereford steaks, English lamb and chicken breast to French duck breast, tuna steak and fillets of sea bass. But the roasted Gloucester pork loin with crackling, apple sauce and ‘ Grandmother’s Gravy’ won the day. It was the perfect follow-up to a satisfyingly traditional homemade cream of vegetable soup with warm crusty bread. Across the table, my companion was equally sated by a classic prawn cocktail and a main of succulent roast Hereford sirloin. This is what Sunday should be all about.

The three-course Sunday lunch menu is exceptionally good value at just £19.99 and of a very high standard, and set-price two and three-course lunch menus are available throughout the week; as is a very popular ‘early bird’ three-course dinner for just £14.99 when ordered before 7.30pm.

The quality, preparation and presentation of the food, designed by head chef Dave Ward, was excecuted to perfection by sous chef Philip Kieran. Credit too to our host James and the friendly waiters, who were attentive and knowledgeable – we will definitely be paying them a return visit soon.