The Rampage, Holborn

There are some bad pubs around Covent Garden/Holborn, and this is by no means the worst of the bunch.
But I wouldn't go to the Rampage (why the name?!?) by choice. Went in this week as a friend had reserved a couple of tables for birthday drinks. They sell 2 ales; the one I tried was horribly off. Why I didn't point this out to the staff (who were very friendly) I don't know. My bad. So I stuck to the wine, which wasn't great for �14.50 a bottle. The pub was stuffy and smoky, especially up at the back where we were. Decor is weird, like they can't decide whether to be traditional or modern. Can't remember the music policy. In summary - could do better.

19 Jan 2007 09:06

The Marlborough Arms, Tottenham Court Road

Pretty average pub. The location can be handy. Food average, beer not the best. Clientele OK.
Last time I was in there some of the staff were OK, some were downright rude. I agree with 'crisp' - it's OK for a pint after work. But it's not worth going out of your way to visit.

30 Nov 2006 17:44

The Rose and Crown, Tooting Bec

A funny one, the Rose and Crown. I moved nearby some time ago, but it took me four or five months before I ventured in. It always seemed slightly daunting from the outside; made me feel I'm not quite Local enough, although I've lived in Tooting three years.
But the Rose is actually rather pleasant. Only been a few times now, but the staff are friendly, and there's a good choice of beers (ie not just lager). Peculiar music policy. Good place for a quiet pint or three and a good chinwag. Not been there on a busy night though - does it have busy nights??

16 Apr 2006 15:18

The Smoke Bar And Diner, Tooting

I like Smoke. A gem. It's not my closest pub, but I consider it my local.
I'm an ale man usually, but there's enough of a selection of other good drinks for me not to mind that there's no beardy fuel here.
The food is tasty. Yum.
The music policy is good too, both when they have a DJ in and when it's just background noise. Hip and varied, loud enough to hear, but not so loud you can't talk. I gather you can reserve a table or the back room too...hmm, might be an idea...
And it is a bit small, but that's part of its charm too; it makes it more intimate.
Well done Smoke.

15 Apr 2006 19:43

Hoochimama's Bar Bistro, Tooting

Tooting is still crying out for some decent nightspots. Hoochie Mama's goes some way to redress that.
But the service is terrible, whether you're waiting at the bar or you've ordered food. I suppose I've not been in for a few months though, it could have improved...

15 Apr 2006 19:31