The Fox and Anchor, Smithfield

Hungover and weary, my rather dashing friday night date led me to this wonderfully atmospheric "gastropub" (a term a generally despise!)for some recuperative ale and stodge. I couldn't have found a better place to play out my hangover (and to advance my burgeoning romance with an enchanting government lawyer!).
On walking into the establishment I was instantly filled with excitement and joy on seeing fat city bankers swigging from tankards of ale! Actual tankards! After procuring some of said ale we were led through to the backroom to begin our feasting. The attentive waiting staff allowed us to move tables into the "snug" (exactly as it says on the tin!) and get cosy (the dusky lighting being kind on my hungover and dehydrated face). The food was good. Not excellent, but good. Better than standard gastropub fayre and nicely presented. Even had my first ever oyster(which had an effort on said lawyer later I must say!). What really set this place aside however was the service. Great staff, who know their food and drink and seem genuinely interested in making your evening enjoyable. Pay them more I say. Especially the nice irish chap (my date caught me looking at his bottom!!!) Oh.....and the Aspalls blush cider is to die for. Go, relax and enjoy. I'll be back.

27 Jan 2008 20:03

The Betsey Trotwood, Clerkenwell

How dare anyone say anything bad about this place under its current management? Whoever you are you are misguided idiot fools!
Much to my misfortune I discovered this pub about 6 months ago and frankly my liver is paying for it! I just can't go for one (a general problem of mine I must admit!) I have to go for at least 5 in this boozer. Absolutely lovely convivial atmosphere, a decent pint of guiness and THE best landlord in god's green earth! I forget his name, but he is literally what every pub in London needs! Christ the man actually popped out to get me a pack of fags, as they didn't have a machine! Frankly this pub ended up in me spending the night with someone rather inappropriate, however I shall be back to shake the hand of the landlord. He's a mad 'un, but a good 'un!

21 Dec 2007 22:07