The One Eyed Dog, Southsea

A classic, big ol', spit-on-the-floor studenty pub. Average cross-section of drinks available to suit most tastes. Free pool during the day and a well-stocked jukebox. Nice relaxed atmosphere, assuming you're of the more alt/indie musical persuasion - not a good place for Ben Shermans and Burberry. Not sure what the current plan is, but I've witnessed some excellent DJs at work in the evenings here in the past.

Under the same management as the Honest Politician and, until recently, the Wine Vaults. Pretty much occupies the middle ground between the two, both geographically and stylistically.

15 Jul 2005 17:20

The Wine Vaults, Southsea

Surely the daddy of Pompey pubs, and I'm not just saying that because it's my local... Currently occupying two floors of what, presumably, used to be about four different shops, there's room for large parties down to quiet couples and everything in between, and they seem to find an extra room to add on every couple of years.

Sadly, one of these expansions must've resulted in the loss of the on-site brewing facilities, as the legendary Offyatrolli (the longest survivor from what used to be a nice little portfolio) turned into a re-badged Directors - a poor show. Still, there are always about a dozen decent real ales on tap at any one time, often featuring Hopback, Ringwood and Itchen Valley amongst others. Prices, which used to be excellent, have risen excessively in the last couple of years - currently averaging �2.40 a pint - but there are still some bargains to be had (especially in combination with food) if you arrive at the right time and carefully check the signs. Also of note are the Chilli Nachos, and whilst the quality sometimes falls short of their mythical status, no one's going to complain about the quantity... It often gets stupidly busy Friday and Saturday nights, so be prepared for a long haul to the bar. I'm afraid I have to drop them a point for the loss of Shakey's pork scratchings; it's just not the same without them!

The Vaults has just changed hands (last Thursday!), so the future is uncertain... it's had its ups and downs in the ten years I've known it (I'd have ranked it 9 at some points), so only time will tell if we're at a brave new dawn or on the brink of a tragic downward spiral - or will it just be business as usual? I'll just say this - the new touchscreen tills make me nervous...

11 Jul 2005 14:09