The Bear, Twickenham

Used to be one of the best pubs in Twickenham after it changed from the dreadful All Bar One. The staff used to be great. What has happened?? They appear to have employed under age staff to work behind the bar who don't actually look old enough to be up to ring the last orders bell. I'm sure they should be tucked up in bed with their comfort blankets. They are increadibly rude and unwelcoming and remind you of the oiks that generally hang around littering the street corners in Twickenham. Serve them all with ASBO's and get the old staff back. Terrible down turn for such a nice pub. Having used this place most weekends for our nights out if in Twickenham, we won't return as long as the kids run the show.

17 Aug 2006 11:37

The Alma Tavern, Wandsworth Town

Very decent pub. Went in on a Thursday night. Great atmosphere. Efficient, friendly staff. Good punters. It is a little pricey but it is also in London and only to be expected unfortunately. Very comfortable and pleasant surroundings. Will certainly return next time I'm in the vacinity.

17 Aug 2006 11:24

The Boom Bar, Battersea

I reckon this place must have improved since the last few reviews. I ended up in here on Friday night after a dismal 1/2 hour in the common rooms down the road. Great atmosphere, great music, good crowd, friendly staff, although they are tight on you leaving promptly at the end of the night. It wasn't grotty at all, quite the opposite. We had a meal that is brought in from the local restaurants, good choice and reasonably priced (mains about �7). Will definately return.

17 Jan 2006 14:57

The Common Rooms, Battersea

This is a truly dreadful place. 4 of us had the misfortune to try it out on Friday night for a few beers and a bite to eat. Never again. The place is filthy with dirty tables covered in spilt drinks, empty glasses and full ashtrays not to mention the dreadful staff and beer.

Once we had cleared and wiped a table (the 6 staff were too busy talking to eachother behind the bar to do it themselves although they did give us a cloth so that we could do it) we discovered that the Stella we had been served was flat. I complained to one of the moody bar staff who told me (without even the hint of a smile)that it tasted ok to her and poured another pint which was also flat but also apparently tasted ok, not to me, I settled on a bottle.

We didn't risk the food, frankly we couldn't get out of there quick enough. No redeeming features whatsoever. Don't be fooled by their flash website, the place is a hole. Better to try the Boom bar down the road, where we ended up - a world apart.

17 Jan 2006 14:43