It varies. Some privately owned country ones are very good. The chains are more of a "know it'll be at least an adequate standard" thing. The issue that is getting more annoying is when one goes to a pub and is confronted with a restaurant view, with the feeling you might not be allowed to sit down unless you order food, because it is all placemats and cutlery and menus and stuff. Offering good food is an asset, driving folk away because they are not comfortable supping a pint with friends, is a great loss to the community.