Set inside the Holiday Inn at Barnsley, Blakes Bar provides a good pit-stop for lunch or dinner whether you're staying at the hotel or simply passing by. While it is a simple hotel bar, the interiors are modern and stylish boasting comfortable leather seating and a full bar. Open daily, the venue is a convenient place for an informal bite to eat, a relaxing drink at the end of a working day or for dinner with friends and family. Plus with large TV screens around the bar, sports fans won't miss out on major events while staying at the hotel.
The menu is typical of British pub food with the occasional addition of global flavours. Starters provide a comforting bowl of the day's soup alongside a warm, crusty roll; but also a taste of India thanks to the tandoori spiced chicken fillets with a yoghurt and mint sauce for dipping.
A range of healthy salads, noodles and plant-based dishes are kept separate from the mains and grill selection on the menu. The confit pork belly is certainly a stand-out in our eyes - featuring an apple and chorizo glaze, this pairing contrasts sweet, sticky apple with a smokey, spicy meat before it is served on a bed of vegetable mash and drizzled with a cider jus. Pub classics such as a pie of the day, fish and chips and burgers are simple but there's no point messing around with everyone's favourites.
While British classics continue with a sticky toffee pudding and chocolate brownie; the menu does get adventurous with the traditional crumble, taking warm apricots and infusing the dessert with cardamom.
The bar lounge caters for lunch too with its sandwich selection. From simpler options like ham and tomato, tuna mayo and chicken; to a fish finger or chargrilled steak sandwich with sweet sauteed onions for a midday indulgence.