If you haven’t been to the Chop House, the poster shot from outside doesn’t look too dissimilar to something you’d see on the cover of Country Life. From the moment you walk in the restaurant it’s rustic and homely, with a cosy amount of wooden furniture displayed around the room accompanied by charming farm-life pictures on the walls. 
There was plenty of space Friday lunchtime, so we shuffled ourselves into a corner table peering onto Wood Street. There was also plenty of choice, so we sat with our heads held low and drooled over the menu. Whilst not making quick and snappy decisions, our wonderfully bubbly waitress insisted she bring over some cans of Crawford Press, assuring us that this would put a hop back in our step. And, she was right. Both the rhubarb and apple spring water potions were incredibly refreshing. From the moment I thought about lunch I knew I wanted (and needed) something slutty. So I went for The Chop House Beef Burger, and it did its job beautifully. 
Unlike most burger joints Helen had tapped into my need for something juicy and filling, but not so I was left feeling like a heart attack was about to call. The house burger was fresh tasting, not marinated in salt, and left my clothes without dreaded grease drips. Ocelot editor, Jamie, went down a similar avenue and was oddly gracious when tucking into a generous helping of ribs. It was actually quite impressive to watch. Jamie said: “They lived up to their name as ‘the best ribs in town’. Absolutely delicious with a wonderful bbq, tangy sauce. I’m still salivating thinking about them right now.” 
Ben however, our deputy reporter, did a complete U turn and opted for one of Helen’s Superbowls. Ben said: “One of the chop house’s constantly evolving super salads - which changes ingredients with season and availability. “Having over indulged in some craft lager fuelled antics the previous evening and feeling a little weakened as a result, I felt the need to indulge in a bit of foodie self love. 
“Served in a bowl, this colourful mix of (if I’m remembering correctly) butternut squash, lettuce, roasted peppers, beetroot, couscous, various scrummy seed things and a generous helping of shredded seasoned pork, was just what the doctor ordered. “The whole myriad of wonderful grub was a total treat. I shall order again. And again.” Needless to say, team Ocelot was revived and ready for our day trip out around Swindon. Helen, you’re a life saver, thank you!
