The Triton Inn, Sledmere: Smart and relaxed feel at country pub

So with high expectations, I set off on the scenic drive across the Wolds to the pub, which is right in the middle of the pretty village of Sledmere.

First impressions of the pub were great as we arrived, with a roaring fire at the back flanked by an impressive and intriguing suit of armour.

The venue is the archetypal cosy pub, smart and tastefully decorated. It feels authentic and timeless and I felt relaxed as soon as I got through the door.

Taking a seat by the fire and browsing the menu, we were greeted with an array of tempting options, such as hand-made chicken liver and brandy pate (£6.95), Arbroath Smokie fishcakes (£6.95) and deep fried brie wedges (£5.95).

As usual, I was mindful of leaving room for dessert so decided to go straight to the main courses.

The menu, while not extensive, featured plenty of choice, with a couple of vegetarian options.

On offer were pub classics such as steak and ale pie (£12.95), lamb shank (£14.95) and 10oz sirloin steak (£17.95), alongside lighter options, including smoked salmon and prawn salad with chips or new potatoes (£14.95).

We settled on beer battered cod with chips and mushy peas (£11.95) and pea, asparagus and fresh spinach in a white wine and truffle oil risotto, served with garlic bread (£12.95).

The food arrived swiftly and looked really appealing, with decent but not overwhelming portion sizes.

The staff were friendly and efficient, checking that we were happy and had everything we needed.

The main courses were lovely – my risotto was delicious and it was clear it had been made with fresh, quality produce.

The fish and chips, my dining partner told me, were perfectly cooked. The batter was light and crisp, without any dreaded greasiness.

The dining room at the Triton is lovely too. It was a Wednesday night and I thought the pub might be quiet, but there were quite a few diners enjoying their food and a few drinks. For a smart pub, the atmosphere was really relaxed, without any of the stuffiness or pretence that can often creep in at so-called gastropubs.

With clear plates and satisfied smiles on our faces, we turned our thoughts to dessert.

The selection of puddings did not disappoint, with a mouth-watering array of treats to tempt us.

Options included lemon and sultana sponge pudding (£5.95), baked vanilla cheesecake with vanilla ice cream and forest fruit compote (£5.95) and panna cotta with mango and passion fruit sauce (£4.95).

A cheese board was also available for £6.50 and a trio of ice creams, made locally in North Dalton, for £5.95.

We went for a vanilla cheesecake and a double chocolate tart with salted caramel ice cream (£5.95).

Both desserts – we pinched part of each other’s – were gorgeous, especially the salted caramel ice cream. The meal was lovely from start to finish and well worth the £45.90 (including drinks) we paid.

OVERALL RATING: 9