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Henry VIII offers historical ambience

Tourists and locals adore the famous pub and restaurant, The Henry VIII, because it is charming and full of historical ambience. You can loose yourself in the history of King Henry VIII's wives as their portraits hang upon the walls in Henry's Room. If you prefer the outdoors you can catch a breeze on the terrace while enjoying a hearty meal at a fair price.

The general manager, John Ferris, said: "We are concentrating on good food and a high standard of service. Every night I work on the floor and I talk to our customers. I feel the 15% should ensure the customer receives impeccable service. I also look out for our local customers as they have an impact on business when tourism slows.'' Mr. Ferris managed Henry's for 22 years and for the past six years it was managed by another. Mr. Ferris was asked to return and has been back since March of this year. He feels business is once again peaking.

Jane Staines, the assistant maitre'd of 15 years, delights in giving customers a nice tour around. In fact, all of the staff are very friendly and aim to please. They are very knowledgeable about King Henry VIII and are quick to tell he was an enormous fellow with a good appetite who had six wives -- and they know what happened to them.

Ms. Staines said: "The first, Katherine of Aragon, he divorced. Anne Boyeln, the second was beheaded. Number three, Jane Seymour, died during childbirth.

The fourth was Anne of Cleves who was quickly divorced. The fifth was Catherine Howard, beheaded because of infidelity. The last was Katie Parr who had a strong heart and survived the King following his death in 1547.'' Prince Henry was born in Greenwich, London in 1491 and was the second son of Henry VII. He became one of the strongest monarchs who helped England become one of the great naval powers.

This interesting and relaxing South Shore restaurant, located in Southampton, offers a comprehensive menu. At lunch you can select delicious soups and salad or hearty sandwiches with fries and cole slaw for around $8.50. The homemade grilled hamburger and the marinated chicken breast are popular choices as is the fish sandwich. Don't forget fish and chips for $12.75 and the steak and mushroom pie for $16.50.

Chef Roman Lesnianski has been doing most of the gourmet cooking for 20 years and has been the head chef for six years.

"We offer a children's menu, vegetarian dishes, beef, fish and other dishes.

The number one food in the evening is beef and number two is the rockfish. We offer evening specials too. I enjoy seeing the empty plates come back. We try to prepare delicious food and make it look beautiful. We have five chefs total,'' Chef Lesnianski said.

Desserts range about $4-5 at lunch and are fit for a king, queen or princess with strawberry shortcake, apple pie or minted chocolate truffle cake. Henry's Puddings are all rich and tempting.

There are many wonderful wines and other beverages served from the bar. They offer 15 varieties of reds and whites by the glass ranging from $5 to 11$ per glass.

If it is a special occasion or if you have won the lottery go and splurge on the Dom Perignon 1992 for about $150. If you are feeling adventuresome order the "Queen's Downfall'' from the bartender. It is composed of Malibu, Cockspur, mixed juices and Black Rum. Neil Virgil , bartender of 22 years, keeps his eyes on his customers and makes everyone happy with his quick wit and service. He is very knowledgeable and knows the cure for a bad cold.

A wonderful team of staff managed by the popular Mr. Ferris creates this friendly and relaxed atmosphere. "We all care about each other here and it is like a working family,'' said Mr. Ferris.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Lunch is served from noon until 2:30. Dinner is served from 6:30 to 10:30 and reservations are recommended.

During the evening entertainment is provided by a dinner pianist and strolling minstrel, Duke Joel. After dinner, enjoy the ever popular Dave Bootle, key board vocalist who alternates some evenings with the dynamic duo of Kenneth Dill, pianist and Darlene Simmons, a Blues vocalist.

The bar is open from 11 am until 1 am. Coffee and tea are available from the bar day and night. There are many kinds of coffees such as cappuccino, Irish coffee with Jamesons, Rumona coffee with rum liquor and Jamaican coffee with Tia Maria.

"We love to see return customers and we like to see people having fun. We offer good value for the money,'' advised Ms. Staines Sunday Mr. Milford Bean, who has worked at Henry VIII since it began 29 years ago, hosts Brunch. Many people ask for him by name. He is a gracious and proper gentleman who goes out of his way to please customers.

Visitors receive a royal welcome Continued from page 13 Henry's Pantry, next door, is managed by Anthony Faries and is a popular South Shore stop near the bus stop. You can buy a cold drink, ready made sandwiches, chips, famous fish chowder, hot pies and a host of other items here. You can stock your beach picnic basket from here. It opens daily 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

except Sunday and certain holidays.

The staff made the following recommendations for tourism: "The airfares are too expensive. Most of the world has lost the elite millionaire element in travel. More people are travelling than ever before and they are conscious of speeding their money and what they receive in exchange for it. Bermuda competes with many holiday destinations from around the world.

"In the same vein there should be better priced travel packages for hotel and airfare.

"Bermuda needs more activities for children at affordable family prices.

"You must give excellent service in the restaurants, hotels, shops, ferries and buses. A positive image will keep tourists coming back to Bermuda.

Everyone should be helpful and kind to tourists.'' The staff says the questions they are asked most by tourists are: Where's the best night life and where can I play golf and tennis and other sports? Where else can we go to eat? Where's the gambling? What time is the next bus coming? What's the weather forecast? The bartender, Neil Virgil, is asked questions about the rums and liquors. Can I take this home with me? Where do I buy it? What's going on in Bermuda? Mr. Ferris chats about the Island lifestyle with tourists.

"They never talk politics with me. They are here to relax and enjoy themselves,'' he advised.

Mr. Ferris concluded by saying: "We offer a slightly different venue here, fine dining and live entertainment. It is a wonderful combination.'' Key staff: Important members of Henry VIII's team include, from left, Roman Lesnianski, Neil Virgil, Jane Staines, Anthony Faries and Milford Bean.

Missing is general manager John Ferris.

Good cheer : Henry VIII's Anthony Faries manages Henry's Pantry and Neil Virgil manages the restaurant bar.

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