Plainsman is a cozy bar and restaurant situated in Mapperley, Nottingham. This venue combines a welcoming atmosphere with a diverse menu featuring both classic and contemporary dishes. It is known for its friendly service and a selection of beverages that cater to a variety of tastes. The establishment includes comfortable seating areas that make it an ideal place for casual gatherings, providing both indoor and outdoor seating. Notably, it often serves as a community hub for local events and social activities.
What each source says
- Google 4.2 960
- Tripadvisor 4.0 167
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Dog-Friendly The pub is dog-friendly, even offering a special 'doggy bar,' making it a convenient choice for dog owners looking for a place to relax and dine.
- Efficient Service Many reviews mention quick and efficient service, from ordering to food delivery, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Friendly and Attentive Staff Many reviewers highlight the exceptional service, noting staff members who are welcoming, helpful, and go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant experience.
- Good Food Quality and Value The Plainsman offers tasty food at reasonable prices, with many reviewers praising the quality and portion sizes, particularly for lunch and traditional pub fare.
- Welcoming Atmosphere Customers consistently describe a warm and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot for families, groups, and individuals alike.
Criticised
- Inconsistency in Food Quality While many praise the food, some reviewers have experienced inconsistent quality, citing cold or unappealing meals.
- Inconsistent Cleanliness A reviewer mentioned there was no soap in the ladies' room which might be indicative of management needing to pay more attention to the cleanliness of restrooms.
- Potential for Crowds and Noise The pub can get busy, especially during football matches, which may lead to a more crowded and noisy environment.
- Service Issues One reviewer noted that they were asked to leave earlier than their booked time, highlighting that the service is not always satisfactory.
- Tight Food Portions A reviewer mentions that food portions can be quite tight, which may not satisfy those with larger appetites.
The longer read
The Plainsman receives consistently positive feedback for its friendly and attentive staff, good food, and welcoming atmosphere. Many reviewers specifically commend individual staff members by name (Katie, Tori, Helen, Lisa, Zoie, Danny, Callum, Tom, Shane, Josephine, Jamie, Ashley, Kelly, Karen, Tristan, Josephine, Simon, Steph, Michaela, Ruby) noting their exceptional service and positive attitudes. This personalized service appears to be a key differentiator for the Plainsman. Several reviewers highlight the staff's attentiveness to families, including those with children and dogs. The pub is described as dog-friendly, even offering a special "doggy bar." Some reviewers mention specific positive interactions, such as staff going above and beyond to accommodate allergies or retrieve forgotten items.The food is generally well-regarded, with frequent mentions of good quality, tasty dishes, and good value for money. Several reviews mention specific dishes, such as the fish and chips, vegan burger, Sunday roast, hunters chicken, fajitas, and mixed grill, as being particularly enjoyable. Portion sizes are generally considered generous. While a couple of reviews mention occasional issues with food quality or presentation, these appear to be isolated incidents, with the majority expressing satisfaction.The atmosphere is consistently described as welcoming, friendly, and relaxed. The pub is noted for being clean and tidy. Several reviewers mention enjoying the atmosphere during sporting events. Some appreciate the live music and entertainment offered. The Plainsman also appears to be a popular choice for special events, such as wakes and wedding receptions, with staff accommodating specific needs.A few reviewers specifically compare the Plainsman favorably to other local establishments, particularly the Woodthorpe Top, citing superior service and food quality. The Plainsman stands out as a pub where customers feel valued and appreciated, with staff going the extra mile to create a positive experience. The pub's ability to cater to families, dog owners, and those seeking a casual meal or a special occasion venue contributes to its broad appeal.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 115 962 2020
- Website
- greeneking.co.uk/pubs/nottinghamshire/plainsman?utm_source=g_places&utm_medium=locations&utm_campaign=PS_pubpage
| Mon | 11:30 - 23:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Wed | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Thu | 11:30 - 23:00 |
| Fri | 11:30 - 1:00 |
| Sat | 11:00 - 1:00 |
| Sun | 11:00 - 22:30 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.2 against a median of 4.4 across the 4 venues we hold for Sherwood, where the most-reviewed is Sherwood Manor.
Still deciding?
- What are the standout dishes on Plainsman's menu for a first-time visitor?
- Does Plainsman provide outdoor seating and what is its capacity during peak hours?
- What types of community events does Plainsman host and how often are they scheduled?
- What parking facilities are available near Plainsman for visitors arriving by car?
- When is the ideal time of day or week to experience Plainsman's atmosphere at its liveliest?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.