The Expat Who Found His Way Back to the Sportsman Pub
Ian is quite the character, having lived in Pattaya for over 20 years. No stranger to pubs, he once worked as a rep for Babycham and spent years selling cider to pubs throughout his home region. As an ex-RAF serviceman, he’s well-versed in travel, with postings as far afield as Aden. After selling his property in London, he relocated to Pattaya.
When Ian first arrived, he stayed at a hotel in central Pattaya, where he discovered the Sportsman Pub. A classic British-style pub located on Soi 13, just a short stroll from the beachfront. With its cozy wooden furnishings and memorabilia, it offered the kind of relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that felt like a slice of home in a new place.
However, as the years went by, Ian’s visits to the pub became less frequent. He found himself enjoying the comforts of home-cooked meals, preparing his own food just the way he liked it. Being particular about what he eats and mindful of his expenses, he would only venture out if the food was exceptional and the value for money was clear.
Recently, the Discover Pattaya Team decided it was high time to bring Ian back to the Sportsman Pub to rediscover their famous Sunday Carvery. As he walked through the familiar doors, he was greeted by the same warm atmosphere and friendly faces. The pub was bustling as usual, with patrons eagerly filling their plates with their favourites.
Ian was immediately struck by the impressive selection of joints on offer which were: Roast lamb, Roast pork, Roast Chicken, Honey Roast ham & boiled ham, stuffed chicken wrapped in bacon, Medium Roast beef & Well done Roast beef of which he chose the latter. Even homemade steak & kidney pie was on offer.
Also extremely happy with the perfectly crispy roast potatoes and creamy mash. Also there was an array of vegetables: peas, runner beans, and Brussels sprouts—everything was just as he remembered, if not better.
Revisiting the Sportsman brought back fond memories for Ian. Cooking at home is fine but it would be difficult to prepare and cook something similar as good as what he had eaten today. It was a reminder of why this spot had been a firm favourite for him in the past. A place where good food, good company, and a warm atmosphere come together perfectly.
He plans on treating himself more often now by venturing to the Sportsman.Ian does plan to return for the Sunday carvery on his 82nd Birthday this December along with a few close friends to celebrate the day.
The additional choice of desserts added a sweet note to an already perfect meal. Ian loved the Vanilla Sponge with Cream and after finishing his meal he commented that the food was terrific.
“The best food in Pattaya I’ve eaten in a long time outside my own place”. “You’ll see my boat race here again”, “Compliments to the Chef” “Even the Peas were good”. Were the comments he made.
The Sportsman’s Sunday Carvery is served buffet-style, allowing diners to help themselves and enjoy as much as they like, typically starting from 12.30pm and running through the afternoon right into the evening. Praised for its , quality ingredients, and the efficency of the friendly staff, particular mention should be made of the excellent and fast carving by the lady at the Carvery table.
For those who enjoy a traditional Sunday roast in a authentic British pub style restaurant, the Sportsman has it all. A choice of two soups with rolls to start and a range of sauces, mint sauce, horseradish, apple sauce, mustard plus a choice of different gravies are all included to make for the perfect Sunday treat.
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