The Plough, East Sheen

As much as the over attentive staff, table service, fake fires, soft colour scheme, table reservations, wood overload/floorboards annoy me, the place does serve a brilliant pint. Am I the only person who thinks the wooden floorboard trend is crazy? Makes the place cold, non-welcoming and western bar cheap IMHO. A proper fire and relaxed atmosphere, I'd make it a 3 course meal or have an extra couples pints.

4 Mar 2011 10:07

The New Inn, Ham

A great pub. Good atmosphere, open fire, family friendly but also a good spot to sink a few pints. Food excellent, a little pricey but worth it knowing its home cooked and you get all the other benefits. If the New Inn got ruined like the Fox and Grapes in Wimbledon and Plough in East Sheen I wouldn't be happy. Long live the New Inn.

4 Mar 2011 09:59

The Fox and Grapes, Wimbledon Common

The joys of the internet and social media has saved me a wasted afternoon and �100. The magnificent Fox and Grapes was our destination pub for Sunday lunches with friends visiting from home (Aust) as it was a real and authentic English pub experience. The food was spot on, well priced, unique decor, pleasant patrons, dogs etc etc. Reading the posts and searching for images has confirmed that I will not be driving 25min to the Fox and Grapes anymore. Its sad for us but I'm clearly not the target market for this venue. It looks like any of the other 100 bistros I've been to across the world, the exterior still looks great though. Where's the carpet gone? This joint (UK) is a freezing place, warm and welcoming pubs appeal to me. I'm sure the owners will generate good PR and foodie blogs with their connections. Make some money and run. There is a global consumer trend towards authenticity, people who are generally aware will see through the Fox and Grapes.

4 Mar 2011 09:46