The Hope, Richmond

I often wonder why people write reviews on these sites. However after visiting The Hope (the new name) I decided it deserved one.
I keep driving past noticing that the shabby looking Molly Malones has had a re-fit. Little did I know, this once dingy hole has been turned into one of the best places around town.
I�m usually a sucker for so-bar closer to the town, I like cocktails, I like an atmosphere that has an air of class and I like a good mixture of people.
We walked into The Hope this Friday for a quick drink, but ended up staying until closing. Those people calling it a gastro pub obviously have no idea what a gastro pub is. This place isn�t trying to be anything in particular, just somewhere people can go and have something that�s slightly different. If you just want a normal pint in a dirty old chair, maybe next door is more suited to you.
What I love about this place is the attention to detail. Little things like the spirits used. You won�t find cheap Smirnoff Vodka, which has some how become the UK�s choice. No no you get quality Russian Vodka etc. Something most landlords are too tight to use. Again the little decorations that add a personal touch, and art from local artists. They even have that great dyson hand dryer! It�s worth a visit to the loo just for that.
One thing that at first cheesed me off was being offered a mojito that wasn�t standard. I like mojito the old way, however, when I tasted this French mojito with a little Chambord added i was simply in heaven. The cocktails knock spots off so-bar and are more competitively priced. Not only that but the staff extremely helpful and personal. Its nice to get service that isn�t fake.
We decided to go back today to test the food menu. Again what first made an impression was attention to detail. I have worked in many industrial kitchens, and have always been fussy with what I eat. I can tell you that not many restaurants care about where the food is from, and only care about cost. All food is locally sourced. Not only that but the menu is up to date with modern trends. There is variety too. Good old pub food, but some healthy options with a difference. A nice afternoon tea menu which I need to go go back for.
I went for the smoked trout salad and a side of fries. All fresh and tasty, presented excellently and served quickly. After some of the best brownie I have ever had (better than mine which is saying something) and a good cappuccino.
I really don�t understand some of the negative comments on here. I think that maybe the old Malones crowd are upset that the dingy pub is no longer there. However if you want some where with class, that doesn�t cost an arm and a leg, that serves good food then this place is for you. The soon to be ready garden I was told about also sounds great.
Going again tomorrow for the pub quiz, Maybe ill let you know how it goes.........................

9 Jul 2008 00:21