Food review: I visited the Ugly Duckling in Telford and found a great menu and friendly service
We all know what became of the ugly duckling. The breasts were roasted, the legs were used for confit, and the excess fat made the absolute best roast potatoes. No, hang on. That’s the revisionist version.
In the original, the ugly duckling became a swan. Except, of course, it couldn’t have done. Because baby swans are called cygnets, or flappers, and ducklings only ever turn into ducks.
But I digress. The Ugly Duckling is not merely the name of a song made popular by Walt Disney and Danny Kaye, it’s also the name of a perfectly formed pub-restaurant in Telford.
Located in Long Lane, it’s been delightfully designed and offers cocktails and botanicals, brunch and dinner, Sunday lunch and everything in between. There’s an outdoor dining space and plenty of room to relax.
Retaining the features of the original 19th Century gem, the owners have transformed the former coal yard public house into a contemporary gastro destination with a unique style. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of foodie options from the classics to sharing boards and small plates – with an excellent array of drinks to complement those choices.
There’s the opportunity to stay, too, for a relaxing drink after finishing your meal. A refurbished lounge provides a space where guests can relax in comfort with friends – enjoying a drink of choice and sampling cocktails hand-mixed by expert bar staff.
Friday and Saturday nights feature a late-night lounge experience with music and drinks available until 1am. There’s also an exciting new brunch menu served from 10am to 3pm from Tuesday to Saturday, offering waffles and pancakes, full English breakfasts, and so many ways with eggs.
Oh yes, and then there’s Afternoon Teas with fine sandwiches and cakes, not forgetting the extra fizz if required.
Sunny days mean enjoying the Duck experience al fresco, complete with an outside bar. In short, The Ugly Duckling is all things to all people. And the venue does, in fact, do a pretty good job of things. No ‘Jack of all trades but master of none’, The Ugly Duckling provides high standards, good service, an exceptional dining room, and food that punches above its weight.
