The Queen’s Head in Stowmarket receives visit from Suffolk News’ Secret Drinker

As I opened the door and ventured inside The Queen’s Head in Stowmarket, I was welcomed with a lovely shine – and I’m not talking Take That.

I was aware the watering hole in Station Road had undergone a refurbishment back in November 2022. It certainly looks to have paid off, as the lighting and glow of the place felt like a warm embrace.

It was also a pleasant surprise to see people playing darts.

I was tempted to get involved but I didn’t want to be signing autographs for the rest of the evening so I decided against it (just want to clarify I am indeed not the next Luke Littler and am in fact quite a way off).

Inside, there was a good volume level and range of background music which I appreciated – readers of the Secret Drinker articles over the last year or so would know this is something I always keep an ear out for.

The decor on the walls around the pub was tasteful, clean and well-presented with a very attractive interior. It seems like a really good place to go in Stowmarket for a cocktail night.

This leads me smoothly on to my drink of choice. Wanting to try something I’ve never had before, I selected a mango and passion fruit ale (£5.40), which was poured at an excellent and rather stunning bar.

It was also pleasing to see a good selection of drinks available.

My choice of beverage turned out to be a good one. Bright, well-balanced and with a refreshing finish – it made a brilliant companion for my dinner.

A top-tier burger is always hard to beat and I can confirm the classic burger (£16.50) I ordered off the menu was indeed a delicious experience.

A 6oz steak patty with fried red onion, lettuce, a pickle, and a slice of cheese as well as burger sauce, chips and ketchup, combined to form something I would highly recommend.

I will admit I did remove the pickle, but how many of us are guilty of that..?

Underwhelming. That is how I would describe what followed my main meal.

The biscoff brownie (£7.95) had been calling to me as soon as I had checked out my food options. As much as I tried, I couldn’t ignore my brain, or in this case, my hungry belly.

However, I was dismayed and disappointed to discover a biscoff biscuit was placed on top of the brownie rather than it being somehow interwoven into my pudding.

For those of you reading this, that may come across as quite harsh but I’d be lying if I didn’t say I expected more.

It tasted fine enough, but I’d suggest visitors maybe try out the deep fried vanilla ice cream or charmallow sundae instead.

Although it was a weeknight, the pub was still quite busy with a nice atmosphere and I imagine it would be a popular place to go on a Friday or Saturday evening.

Just don’t get the biscoff brownie.

(Or actually do - and decide if you agree with me or not)

The scores out of five:

Decor: I was a big fan of the decor throughout the pub and felt it suited the vibe of the place really well. 4/5

Food and Drink: As I said earlier, it was indeed a nice drink and I’d happily have it again. The meal was lovely and the pudding wasn’t ideal… 3/5

Price: Taking everything into consideration, the prices weren’t too bad but I did feel they were on the more expensive side. Especially the cost of my pudding! 2.5/5

Atmosphere: A good number of people with nice music as well. I felt very comfortable. 3.5/5

Staff: Did their jobs well and were pleasant when interacting with my companions and I. 3/5