BITE user comments - Spaino
Comments by Spaino
How were the new owners allowed to get away with the destruction of a pub with such character? I went back recently after a few years away and it really brings a tear to your eye. The great old place has been transformed into the standard rubbish you would find in an All-Bar-One. It is nothing short of vandalism. Worryingly, the owners are proud of what they have achieved. The original interior no doubt changed bit by bit over hundreds of years but never so dramatically as this. The thing is, after ten years, what they have done will look worn out and rubbish. But there is now no way back. Tragic.
Oh yes, food is weak and you have to wait years. Beer is ok I guess.
18 Jul 2007 17:37
The layout of this place is really poor - compounded when busy. I guess it is trying to be club/bar rather than pub/bar. But there is something about it that just doesn't work. Overpriced in all departments, this place really is best avoided. There are so many better places.
When you escape to the bogs for brief respite, you'll find Lee Evans or Peter Kay piping through the speakers. Probably it's only redeeming feature.
17 May 2007 12:02
It's ok. I've been a few times now as it is close to work. The ale always seems to run out just as I order it - do they not know how to change a barrel? Do they not buy in enough? Or do they just not like me? Good for keeping an eye on the sport whilst enjoying a drink (if there is any left). Loads of plasma screens and a big projection screen for the key footy games. Food is ok. Some of the staff seem competant enough.
17 May 2007 11:51
Went here last night and was really impressed. Busy but good atmosphere mainly due to the size and layout - real character. Service was spot on. Sat in the gallery upstairs overlooking the main "hall". Food was a bit pricey but good. A City pub that hasn't been ruined by new management and obscene refurbs.
17 May 2007 11:42
The Bar at tcr, Tottenham Court Road
Ok, its not the best place in the world but it has its plus points surely? I'll defend the bar staff. When I was there I found them polite, friendly and efficient. Also, it was 30 degrees outside and its got air conditioning! Food's ok too although nothing special. I think they've sorted their widescreen issues now too (prior to World Cup).
12 Jul 2006 11:58
In an unlikely "hot spot" area of Shrewsbury having 4 pubs within a stones throw. This is by far the best and I believe, under new management. Really friendly landlord & landlady and bar staff, really good range of ales from local breweries and beyond - all kept exquisitly, roaring fire in the winter (when I went) and friendly, talkative locals. I think they may have a late license too. What more could you want from a pub. Although having to go outside to the gents can be a bit cold!! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
22 Mar 2006 19:06
Had some really good times in this interseting and unusual Oxford pub. Being a Samuel Smith's place, you can expect the standard range from this chain - but thats not a bad thing. The last time I was in here though, after a good evening, the staff insisted on opening the door at ten to eleven and letting in the freezing cold. This strikes me as an extremely rude way of treating customers. Especially loyal ones! When I complained I was told in no uncertain terms to "f**k off" by the barman. And so I shall never return. Ever.
22 Mar 2006 18:17
The Kings Arms, Epsom
Not eaten here since latest refurb. Be careful with the (good range of ) guest ales. If they've been on more than a couple of days they taste very vinegary. Happened on 4 or 5 occasions. Wish they'd sort it out as otherwise it's an ok place.
29 Oct 2012 16:45