The Malt Shovel at Barston

A trim-looking, cream-coloured pub in the environs of Birmingham, The Malt Shovel is a light, airy, well-designed place that extends a warm welcome. The unclothed tables in the tiled dining area are set with flowers, and the menu offers an extensive choice of modern pub dishes. Start with mushroom and mascarpone tortellini in white wine and tarragon cream, before going on to lamb noisette on hazelnut and Merlot risotto with rosemary and mint gremolata, or a fine version of fish and chips with minted pea purée. Specials are always worth a gander, as are the fun desserts; take your chance with lemon curd and honeycomb tart with 'surprise' ice cream.