The Mute Swan, Hampton Court

I'm giving a very high rating because today when we visited for Sunday lunch after seeing the Palace with friends, they really got it right for our party of four. Most of all, as we were eating, it was service at the table, but it didn't feel 'poncy' and gastro pubby. It still felt like a pub. And the food was good.

We ordered Sunday roasts, and all were cooked well and served well. Beer was an OK selection: not a CAMRA paradise but a reasonable selection. Service was rapid - none of that turning round in your seat business trying to catch someone's eye who we know have seen us but are pretending not to, as they are stressed out. We've all been there in many situations.

I did have a mini moan about the number of potatoes, and they zoomed off and brought back extra veggies on the house. Me being me, I like gravy in a side jug? No problem.

Overall, they really are trying to get the whole thing right, and did a great job today. My friends were delighted. It's a pub, so you expect a few niggles and so on. What you want is good food and beer/wine and brisk, efficient, friendly service, and they provided that.

Today was really good, I can't fault it on any reasonable level. Highly recommended.

29 May 2016 19:06

The Express Tavern, Kew Bridge

This place made my day. Popped in after a transport mix up on the way to my birthday lunch in Chiswick, as didn't have time to go to the river. Was expecting a typical high street geezers' boozer (if any remain in Kew). Not a bit of it: huge range of ales and lagers, interesting refurb, friendly barman. Garden looks good. And old classic R and B and rootsy music playing on a vinyl turntable instead of the horrid old pop musak most pubs assault our eardrums with.Nice touch.

A lot of thought seems to have gone into this place. Loved it. Never hear of any of the beers but who cares?

It's a beautiful early spring day, thank the Lord for pubs!

7 Mar 2015 13:01

The Tide End Cottage, Teddington

One of my favourite pubs along this section of The Thames. Relaxed atmosphere, dogs allowed etc. While there was some music in the front bit, they left it off in the back bit so you can enjoy one of the hallmarks - in my book - of a pleasant pub experience: the general hum and hubub of conversation and the clink of glasses at the bar. Didn't try the food this time: will next. Worth a visit.

28 Dec 2014 14:18