The Flask, Highgate

I went into the Flask this evening to enquire about the possibility of hiring all or part of it for a private function- my wedding breakfast and reception, in fact, as I'm thinking of getting married at the church opposite. I could see the staff were busy-ish (although I've worked in quite a few pubs, and it wasn't heaving by any means) so I thought I'd just ask for a card so I could call at a quieter time. When I asked the barman about private hire he was curt with me to say the least and started questioning me about numbers - his whole air was that of someone who would be doing me a massive favour by allowing me to pay for a reception- but he didn't say it would be impossible. Then a tall, bald guy appeared behind the bar,(presumably the manager) and the barman gestured me towards him. Again, I asked for a card and he said "we don't do private hire" and walked off, just leaving me standing there. I was planning to stay and eat with some friends, but left straight away due to his rudeness. Such a shame, as it's a gorgeous, atmospheric little place and in a beautiful location. Just goes to show- put "jus" on a pub menu and some establishments can get a bit too big for their boots.

21 Feb 2010 19:50