The Builders Arms, Chelsea

We were completely let down by the management of this pub. In an attempt to arrange leaving drinks for a friend we rang the pub to try and arrange to book a table for drinking and dining. We were told that the pub does not do reserved seating areas. With this in mind we all made our way early to the pub in order to secure a table. Over time the pub filled up, shortly after which we were told rather brusquely by the manager that we would have to vacate the table in one hour as they had reserved that section for a group to have dinner. She even implied that we had removed the reserved sign from the table. We reluctantly moved, but were then told we couldn't stand in the section we were and were shuffled around to the crowded bar area.

After a while people became hungry and so we attempted to order some bar food. However, we were told that this was not possible because only people sitting at tables could order food. When I asked to speak with the manager about this one of the bar staff (not even the one who was serving me) told me I was being rude for making a fuss. We were eventually given food, but quite frankly my friends departure drinks were ruined.

I do not believe the problems with this pub were a one off. I gained an impression that it is very badly managed and that staff seemed unhappy working there.

I for one, will not set foot in the Builders Arms again. All of my friends and colleagues who were with us feel the same.

I hope those people who do choose to visit the Builders have a better experience than I did. It certainly couldn't be much worse.

10 Oct 2008 17:06