DISCREETLY located on Acton High Street, this 17th-century pub and kitchen stands out from the rest as soon as you set foot on the dark wooden flooring.

The George and Dragon, believed to have been frequented by legendary highway robber Dick Turpin, maintains its traditional character, with the first bar displaying a symphony of polished brass beer and ale pumps.

But, if you think that's impressive, guests should head into the dining area which has the look and feel of a medieval banqueting hall, yet stylishly decorated with two larger than life-size statues, a mural and elegant mirrors hanging above original fireplaces.

It is here we decided to settle and try the menu of traditional home-cooked meals with a touch of gastro-style flair.

I ordered the pea and spinach risotto cake with melted goat's cheese, sun-dried tomato and pepper relish and, put simply, this

starter was amazing. The risotto was smooth and creamy, each grain separated easily from the well-presented circular dollop, the peas were crispy and the goats cheese and relish topped off the dish, giving a slightly salty yet sweet flavour on the palate.

My friend opted for a warm salad of chorizo, new potatoes, roasted red onion and green beans, and was chuffed with her choice.

The thin juicy slices of the tangy chorizo worked well with the crunchy green beans and the subtle tender onion and buttered potatoes, leaving her wanting more.

For the main, I selected the baked chicken supreme with sauteed puy lentils and spinach, roast garlic and thyme jus.

The large chicken leg was beautifully presented; cut in half with a brilliant red vegetable filling, the puy lentils tasted similar to green pesto and the gentle kick of garlic added a refreshing tang to the tender meat.

My friend decided to stick with a traditional main meal of beer battered haddock with chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce - a generous portion of crispy yet succulent fish - and also ordered a side salad.

After sampling the impressive starters and mains, we couldn't leave without trying the puddings.

Being a chocolate fan, I chose the chocolate and Brazil nut cake with cream, presented with strawberries on top, and this dessert was warm and moist and sprinkled with icing sugar.

My friend had the sticky toffee pudding with caramel sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Again, it was warm and sweet and delicious, but ultimately defeated her and she was was unable to finish the sticky delight.

With a glass of wine each, the whole meal totalled around £50.

Sumptuous surroundings? Tick. Friendly service? Tick. Fine-dining? Tick.