The Crown, Thames Ditton

Very mediocre experience here on Mothers' Day. Infact below mediocre. No flowers on tables, no extra staff - nothing to indicate anyone had given any thought to the day.
Meal was poor for a gastro style pub. Starter minimal and slow - 2 prawns. Kedgeree was stodgy and microwave heated (apparently), chicken dry and tough, vegetables tired. It really was a poor imitation of something else. The next day I went and had lunch in Portobello Road at the same price and so, so much better. A good manager needs to grab this place by the scruff of the neck and get the menu and preparation sorted out. One person waiting tables on Mothers' Day is very amateurish indeed.

21 Mar 2007 17:17

Gordon Bennnett bar + kitchen, Surbiton

On the face of it, this place is completely inoffensive (apart from a few self important individuals announcing the latest dull episode in their city job for all to hear).
The menu out-punches other places in its sort of category. I just feel this place has the look and feel of a restaurant/bistro than a bar.
The closely packed identical tables and chairs also give it a battery-hen ambience and seem to rob the place of any soul it might have.

20 Sep 2006 10:30

The Black Bull, Old Langho

I stopped in at this pub when I was up at my best mate's son's christening. The food I got was some of the best home cooked honest grub I have ever had at a pub (steak pie) and the staff were probably some of the most friendly and helpful (I don't work for the pub, by the way).
Can't recommend it more highly - really really good pub.

20 Sep 2006 10:20