The Bull's Head, Barnes

What is this shit? The Bull's Head is one of the greatest pubs in London.

As to any effort to shut down the music, then f**k any idiot who buys their modern flat next to a music pub, only to find ... shock horror - it's a MUSIC PUB. CLOSE IT DOWN! F.F.S.

Not yet eaten here, though the food always smells and looks great. The Youngs is always excellent, wines are good and reasonably priced, and they have magnificent crisps.

To the pillock who wants to kick out the locals - off to the nearest Wetherspoons or Slug And Generic with you.

The landlord (if Dan is he) is a lovely bloke and his bar staff are usually great: attentive, polite and quick.

27 Jan 2005 12:28

The Crooked Billet, Wimbledon Common

Sadly, two not-great recent experiences to report of this lovely, atmospheric pub with great character. Fortunately, the bitter has been fine on all visits.

However ...

We ate there in the week before Christmas, and apart from the starter (fine nachos), the food was extremely disappointing. A steak was tiny, overcooked (ordered medium-rare) and poor quality meat, and the sizzling duck breast had what seemed like half a pot of salt in the sauce.

We went back a fortnight ago, and my girlfriend's house dry white wine (formerly acceptable-to-good here) was awful. A small amount (and I mean small) led to a disproportionate hangover, and a steely resolve not to touch the wine here again.

A lovely pub for a beer, but really poor wine and bad food drag it down. 8.5/10 for atmosphere and beer; 1/10 for food and wine.

27 Jan 2005 12:18