Finding ourselves meandering along the A16 between Grimsby and Louth on a brisk autumn day, we decided to pull in somewhere for lunch. As we approached North Thoresby, a sign for Venney’s at The Granby caught our eye. From the outside, the building doesn’t exactly shout “culinary delight” — a rather grey and unassuming façade that could easily be overlooked if you didn’t know better. But step through the door, and you’re greeted with something quite unexpected.
Inside, Venney’s is a revelation. The décor is modern and inviting, with warm lighting, rich earthy tones, and elegant detailing that immediately gives it a calm, contemporary feel. The bar area is beautifully adorned with hanging greenery and soft fairy lights, casting a gentle glow across the space. It’s the sort of interior that manages to feel both upmarket and welcoming — no pretension, just quiet confidence and style. There’s a comfortable mix of tables for dining and high stools at the bar, and the overall layout feels open yet intimate. Whoever designed it has struck exactly the right balance.
Arriving just on midday without a reservation, we were shown straight to a table of our choice — one of the perks of being early. Menus in hand, we set about the enjoyable task of deciding what to have. There’s a well-rounded selection here, ranging from tempting starters such as dressed crab with citrus and dill mayonnaise or garlic mushroom bruschetta with blue cheese and sourdough croutons, through to hearty mains like traditional haddock with hand-cut chips, mushy or garden peas, lemon and tartar sauce.
After much consideration, both of us gravitated towards the Chicken Parmigiana — described as a breaded chicken breast topped with melted mozzarella, crispy bacon, and Napoli sauce, served with fries and a dressed salad. At £16.95, it felt fairly priced for what promised to be a generous main course.
The wait was just long enough to suggest that everything was freshly prepared, and when the dishes arrived, that impression was confirmed. The chicken was beautifully cooked — moist, tender, and perfectly coated in its rich Napoli sauce. The melted mozzarella gave it that comforting, slightly indulgent edge, while the bacon added a welcome savoury note. The fries arrived in a smart ceramic pot, golden and crisp, just begging to be tipped out onto the plate. They didn’t last long. The salad was light and well-balanced — not the afterthought that it so often can be — with a refreshing dressing that complemented the dish rather than overpowering it.
In short, it was an excellent meal. The flavours were well judged, the presentation thoughtful, and the portion size generous without being over the top. The only thing left on my plate was the single lettuce leaf that had acted as the salad’s base. A minor casualty in an otherwise flawless lunch.
As for the service, it was friendly and efficient without ever feeling rushed. The staff were attentive and approachable, adding to the relaxed, polished atmosphere that makes Venney’s stand out from so many roadside pubs.
It’s fair to say that Venney’s at The Granby is one of those unexpected finds that restores your faith in casual dining. What looks like an ordinary roadside pub from the outside turns out to be a beautifully styled restaurant serving freshly cooked food of a very high standard. Whether you’re passing through or live locally, it’s well worth stopping in.
We’ll certainly be back — perhaps next time to sample that dressed crab or the haddock and chips.
The Willoughton Wanderer 
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