The Kelly Arms, Kingston Upon Thames

This has recently been done up and gone down the Gastro route. Thankfully though it didn't feel pertentious like a lot of them.

On the plus side, the building and interior are great with lots of traditional charm. The food was very good, and reasonable priced for one of these places. The staff were very attentive (but not overly) and friendly. The beer (Sussex) was nice and well looked after.

However, it needs to sort the atmosphere out. It felt a bit more like eating in a Library than a pub, even though there were quite a few people in there. You couldn't really have a conversation without expecting the whole place to hear. This could be sorted easilly with a bit of music and possibly dimming the lights a bit.

Deserves to do well for its plus points but needs to sort out a decent atmosphere quickly.

5 Oct 2007 13:08