The Gold Coast Bar and Restaurant, South Norwood

In reply to MervPayne, I too remember the previous incarnations. During the '70s I used to play league darts and the 'Spread Eagle' as it was then was a family run pub with musical entertainment at the weekends. After the landlord died the landlady took it over until retirement. The recession hit many locals and the Spread did not escape. As manager replaced manager, the decay turned into rot. The breweries and pub owners did not help one iota. The pub closed until taken over by William and Francesca. The pub reflects the multi cultural aspects of my home, South Norwood. Many areas change and so do the pubs, some for good some for bad. This I feel is for the good. Real ale will probably not sell well there, but the Ghanaian bottled beer is good tasting and strong. By always looking back one does not see the present or anticipate the future. There has been numeruous pub closures in the area so any pub re-opening is good news.

12 Dec 2007 11:45

The Gold Coast Bar and Restaurant, South Norwood

I am a local from South Norwood and have been using the Gold Coast from the beginning. When my wife and I first visited it we were among only half a dozen or so white faces there. BUT WHAT A WELCOME WE GOT. It made a refreshing change not to hear racist, homophobic right wing unpleasantries. The staff are friendly and helpful. The owners, William and Francesca, are even more so. There are normal draught beers as per any pub but I recommend the Ghanaian bottled beers. Weakest is Star, but others worth trying are Gulder, Stones and Club. Imported Guiness is an respectful 7% and one can have Ghana or Nigerian Guiness. The food is very reasonable and can be HOT!! Try the 'finger food' first. Good sounds are played together with live jazz. Football and sport is viewed and it was the place to be during the World Cup 2006. Friendly, lively, great food and ambience. Be warned though that it is quiet up to about 9pm and then takes off til around 2am. Enjoy.

23 Dec 2006 17:58