O'Neills, Harborne

Recently refurbed and renamed.
Now trading as "The Junction", its original name before becoming an O'neills.
The beer is pricey, and the bar staff are still learning the ropes, thankfully they've kept a few old hands from the days of being O'neills, so the service isn't too bad.
Smoking has been banned inside the pub. The courtyard at the back has been partly covered, heaters have been provided, as has seating, so you can still grab a smoke and have a pint. Just be sure to wear your sunglasses, the seating has been painted shocking shades of pink and orange. Nasty.
They're selling a wider range of European beers, and the attempt to equate more continental beers with higher prices may backfire. The Leffe at 6.6% abv is only sold in halves, and you'll be charged �1.90 for the privilege.
The decor seems to been influenced by Lawrence Llewellyn Bowen. The majority of the walls have been painted in blackboard paint, and there are lots of clashing styles. Perhaps the different lights above the bar are to distract from the ale prices?
It might grow on me, but for now, I think it needs to take some tips from the Wellington on Bennetts Hill about how to decorate and run a pub.

4 May 2007 13:49