Elm Tree, Cambridge

The Elm Tree is the Collins definition of a local pub. Every member of staff behind the bar has an intimate knowledge of the often-changing tap beers and bottles, and all are polite, friendly and invested in the establishment.

After my first couple of visits, three members of the bar staff had remembered my name and asked after both myself and my partner on subsequent visits. You simply cannot put a price on that level of customer service, which is so much lacking in modern day establishments. In fact, I'm reluctant to call it customer service; the Elm Tree has something more, a family atmosphere that makes every single soul that walks through the door a member of the extended bloodline. Be you a first time customer wondering which of the 40+ Belgian beers is for you, of a regular ale drinker contemplating which of the 8+ taps to sample that day; there is always a word of advice and a line of friendly banter.

I moved to Eden St four weeks ago. I would not stray to a single other local pub (and there are many) for my 'local pint', nor would I recommend another establishment in Cambridge to anyone looking for an excellent pint and a friendly experience while you drink it.

Yeah, I could find a cheaper beer if I really wanted to, but could I find a friendlier, more relaxed and generally hospitable establishment in Cambridge? I doubt it...and if that's not worth an extra 20p, I don't know what is.

15 Aug 2010 00:09