The Londesborough, Stoke Newington

I moved to London about a year ago.

The roast in the Londesborough is the best I have had anywhere; good portions, always really good meat, fresh well cooked veg, nice roast potatoes, the works. 10 out of 10

It is more expensive than other pubs, but I'm always happy to pay extra for a really good restaurant quality roast.

I used to eat here at least a couple of times a month.

However, the management have got very greedy lately, which is a real shame,
This is a pub remember, not a restaurant, yet the staff insist on table service now so that they can make some extra cash in tips.

When I eat I usually leave 10 % service anyway, but like to be given the option in case the service has not been up to scratch. What is really annoying about the present system is that you cannot order food from the bar even if you are ordering a drink, and you want to do it at the same time. Why not?

So you try to pay for your drink, but the bar staff tell you to sit down and someone will take your order. Err no thanks, I'll just pay now please. No you must sit!
So someone takes your order and you wait for your food. When it's ready they bring it. That is the only service that you get.

In a restaurant, at least you know the drill. You sit down and the waiting staff make sure you're ok for drinks etc.. not here.. Which is fine - because it's a pub not a restaurant. So just keep it like a pub.

My point to conclude is that in your local you just want to order your drinks and food and have a nice chilled out sunday, without the hassle.

You could say don't go, which is fine, but then i'd miss out on some great food in a great pub.

Shame about the service...

23 Apr 2009 22:12