The Gladstone Arms, Borough

I was there last night for the music, and in contrast to many of the London music pubs I've been to this one not only had bitter on tap, but it was decent beer (I had the Tribute), well kept and reasonably priced for London at �3.20 per pint (in a mug as well, which is a novelty these days) - about the same price as a smaller bottle of inferior lager at the University of East London bar!

The pies looked rather appetising, but not having been there before I'd eaten a big meal beforehand. I'll be partaking next time I'm in the area!

The place was packed, and one of the bar staff was a little too eager to clear up empties, but other than the staff were good.

Music wise the acoustics are good, but they could do with turning up the lights on the bands a bit more - the candles on the windowsill were brighter during the support act's set!

The only real downside was that I got a powerful whiff of disinfectant every time the door to the gents was opened, which would be quite off-putting if I were eating.

10 Oct 2010 12:43

The Globe Inn, Lostwithiel

I cannot rate this pub highly enough.
I went there with my grandmother on Friday night and had a fabulous meal in the restaurant followed by a nice drink in the bar. The range of beers looked good (although I was drinking wine and didn't sample any), and the price of both food and drink was very good. The staff and regulars were all very friendly and welcoming.

On Sunday evening we returned and had another, equally good meal in the restaurant, and were remembered and greeted warmly by the waiter - which is always a good sign. Following the meal we again went to the bar, but as Sunday night is quiz night it was standing room only. Despite this my grandmother was offered a seat and we were invited to join a team if we wished (alas we couldn't stay long enough).

If you are in the area then this pub is definitely worth a visit. I'd recommend booking if you want to guarantee a table in the restaurant - by 8:30 on the Sunday evening it was full.

7 May 2010 18:00

The Dunstan House Inn, Burnham on Sea

Had a nice meal in here this lunchtime, although the service was slow and perhaps a touch unwelcoming.

The daily specials were varied, but the main menu was limited, particularly with only two options marked as being available in children's portions (fish and chips and sausage and mash I think), and only about three pudding options.
When it arrived the steak and ale pie was very tasty and quite filling, but the presentation made it look very small.

My pint of Tribute was well kept, but my grandfather's Courage Best Smooth was not in such good condition.

The d�cor made the pub quite dark, despite large windows.

Overall, not the best pub in the area but not the worse either (there is a Hungry Horse just down the road for example).

15 Jul 2009 21:05