please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
LOL a public hair, I think you mean pubic. Either way that's disgusting and I don't blame you. Funny how contrasting some punters experiences are!
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Where do I start, I am a trained Chef and I have been going to this Pub for years but I must say the food has really gone down hill, the last 3 times i have been there i have experienced the worst food ever and when i have complained to the staff, they are so rude. For example my chips were raw and not even cooked, when i complained, the waitress reply was that the chef always does that so i should get over it. I also went to the loo and witnessed the Chef going to the toilet and not even washing his hands and going straight back to the hot plate and handling food for customers, i could not believe it. The final straw came when i found a PUBLIC hair in my salad, when i complained the polish waitress was so rude to me and said it was mine, she walked away and called me a very rude word that is too rude to say on this site, lets just say it begins with C. I will never go into this pub again, it used to be my local but never again. I have recently started to go to another Local pub in st margarets and have found people who have had the same problems with this Pub and who will never go back again.
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Probably one of the best pubs in London. Great atmosphere, spacious, large choice of food and drink and the food is also of very high standard. Really nice outdoor seating area with heaters for us smokers to puff away. Anyone and everyone I know whos been here has always complimented it after, apart from my little brother, who got turfed for being underage!
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Great looking pub in a nice area of London.
Nice inside and good range of beers and wines.
Food is expensive. Trying to be gastro. Hit and miss.
one night they ran out of most of the things i chose at 8pm. Pretty poor.
Service is the one thing that lets it down in a big way. If anything is asked of staff. Watch the barriers go up.
Question on the lack of main courses at 8pm. he replied im just the waiter, what can I do.
Considering our table was spending around £100 on food and drink, i would have expected a little more
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As always, people only seem to write in about places if they have a gripe. This is a really excellent pub, especially for those who remember it as it was before the refurbishment. Food is EXCELLENT and the staff friendly on the whole. The number of people filling what is quite a large space testify to the popularity of the place.
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this pub lacks soul and would be better described as a dentist's waiting room. staff are pretty good if your lucky enough to grab one's attention. MFI are rubbing there hands with glee after offloading that shoddy decking and the less said about the food the better. the only saving grace is the quality of the ales. sort it out manager we want more life more fun and to have to pay a little less for it.
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The food is overpriced for what it is, and the service is shoddy.
The pub has gone downhill, it use to be a great place to chill out, with great pub food. I won't be going back there in a hurry!
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Plenty of room, some nice seats near the fireplace. Food/drink is overpriced, service isn't always pleasant. It has the feel of a pub that is ripping you off.
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Drink here all the time.
Is it just me or does the place have a real bad smell inside nowadays ?
Roll on the sunshine so I can sit outside again.
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I too think that this pub is great, absolutely shite food, great staff and clean. Will be back.
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I think that this pub is great, good food, great staff and clean. Will be back.
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was really surprised to read the last couple of negative reviews. I regularly use the St Margarets both with my family and friends. Ok, so sometimes there's a wait on food (you should see how busy it gets in there) but generally it does good, pub food, better than most around the area. Was in there last night when they were doing a French Themed night and the Coq Au Vin and the Beef Bourguignon was fantastic. The staff are always really helpful, I always ask them what they recommend and the specials are usually pretty good.
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I sympathise with the person who had the jalapeno crab pasta but believe the food given to me could win in a worstmeal ever competition.
I ordered a Lamb Hotpot but received a Lamb Shank(boiled in the bag Im sure) with boiled Potatoes on top. I dont blame the chefs as they are probably not used to British food but the management must make sure their trained or this pub will have problems as it is well known around St Margarets for frozen food at restaurant prices. My friend paid fifteen pounds for a very poor Fillet Steak with Horseradish Sauce(definately not home-made)heated up and poured over it. Gordon Ramsay would have nightmares for sure.
If this pub wants to serve food of same standard as the Weatherspoons chain then they should charge a similar amount. The Sunday Roast with aunt bessies is of a poorer standard.
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Spent a very pleasant Saturday afternoon at St Magaret's Tavern and enjoyed a well cooked and reasonably priced steak meal. The service was excellent and the waitress was very attentive at all times. I would recommend this pub wholeheartedly and will definitely be visiting it again soon.
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I've been to this pub a few times now and overall I'd have to say it is pretty good, I'm not a big drinker so I can't really comment on the beer but when I've eaten there the food has been tasty, service has been quick and staff seem quite friendly. What more can you ask for?
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Whenever we are in St Margarets, we come to this pub. Tonight, we met a couple of friends here for a drink and ended up eating, as the menu looked good and we have always liked the ambiance here.
I ordered the Crab, Tomato and Red Chilli Tagliatelle (one of my favourite pasta dishes!) and had high hopes of a simple fresh pasta dish...
I was served, possibly (no definitely) the worst pasta I have ever been served. Bar none. (I have eaten in Bella Pasta in the early nineties too! That bad...)
So what happened?
Option 1) The chef of this pub thinks it is fine and cool to serve a crab, tomato & red chilli tagliatelle using chopped pickled green jalapeno peppers (!!!) from a jar (yes, the sort you get on Nachos!) instead of fresh red chilli, so that your crab (vacuum packed soggy crab by the way - may as well have been tinned) is steeped in the foul vinegar water from the jar and tastes rank...
Or
2) Shit!!! We've run out of fresh red chilli and instead of pulling this dish from the menu, I'll put some red chilli powder in it and use these pickled jalepenos from this jar instead. The punters will never notice! We'll still charge them restaurant prices anyway! Muahahahaha HA HA HA HA!
What we object to here is how many pubs have jumped on the Gastro Pub band wagon and are charging restaurant prices for absolute shite food like this. Pickled Green Jalpapeno Peppers in a crab pasta dish!!! Arrrrrrghh - For God's sake!!!! Someone call Gorden Ramsey to this place! You wouldn't expect this level of incompetancy in McDonalds. People are gladly willing to pay for good food, so why take the piss like this?
Tell me that the chef was on holiday tonight and tomorrow, everything will be OK...
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was really surprised to read the last comment about this pub. We've recently moved into the area and have been here several times. The staff have always been so friendly and helpful. I even brought my mum here on mothers day and had the most fabulous lobster meal. They really looked after us, my mum was really chuffed. I can't comment on the beer as I don't really drink it, but there's some very pleasant wines on the menu...
I would definately recommend this pub to anyone!
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I am very disappointed after my dining experience last Sunday. I found the staff unfriendly and cold, but this may be down to their fear of smiling. Some of the prices seem to be quite steep, for what is obviously frozen food, i.e the chicken tikka curry. Can anyone cook fresh food NOT in a microwave in this pub?! Not impressed........ However the selection of beers was very much to my liking.
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Mostly on track now - apart from the prices. This is now a very expensive place to drink
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chavvy???? Every time i've been in there it seems to be a reasonably nice crowd. Lots more women in there now, less big groups of guys. They do any bottle of wine for £12 on a wed night, which is great. Be careful though, once you've had a couple you don't notice how expensive the bar snacks are.
anonymous - 17 Aug 2007 14:56 |
Good choice of ales, usually well kept.
Can get a bit chavvy.
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Worth visiting if only to seek out Arthur Dinari, the famous football supporting vegetarian with a dislike of trash. He only comes here, never comments on anywhere else. Come on manager, get your staff to cheer up a bit and stop spending so much time putting transparent comments on here!!
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Things are looking up in this pub. The place has changed beyond all recognition but thankfully a lot of the trash has gone with it. Lots of women getting in there these days and the menu's not too samey. It's started showing football and the tuesday quiz is one of the better ones in the area. Have been there a lot of late and can recommended the specials - their dishes not the ska band and it's a good place to bring people for lunch too. Just needs a few more veggie options though please manager?
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They do have a good range of real ales. But lately they're not being served cool enough - need to beef up the refrigeration?
anonymous - 3 Jun 2007 11:08 |
Has a rather generic and impersonal feel to it, which is typical of pubs in the area.
However, it is clear that they take their beer seriously - note the Cask Marque leaflets on the bar counter and the blackboard giving a full description of each real ale on offer. I had a nice pint of Bath Ales Gem Bitter which was very nice and on form.
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I think the St Mags must be losing Sunday lunch trade because of the jazz band. At the end of the pub where they play you can't hear yourself think (let alone talk) . I know you mean well guys but friends and families have Sunday lunch there as a social thing - they don't want to have to shout at their auntie over continuous and rather depressing tootling
anonymous - 27 Mar 2007 08:42 |
Went to this pub on Tuesday . Great food and candlelite in winter . The new managers have really done a great job here and the place was buzzing . Very good trivia quiz on a tuesday night , with spot prizes and good banter . There were about 13 teams playing when I was there . Most of the staff are polish , Australian or from New Zealand and very efficient and friendly .
anonymous - 24 Feb 2007 14:00 |
The food has improved, had burgers there last night adn they were the best burger I've had in years. When the new management took over the food took a dive, glad to see it is a lot better. A really good local.
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Oh dear - two steps forward, one back. In the evening they've now started laying up many of the tables at the no smoking end for food - has a dual effect 1) denies many of the best places to sit to people who just want a drink and 2) comes across as some sort Bernie Inn - very naff.
Please leave it like it was - it's a pub with food, not a restaurant that happens to serve drinks!
anonymous - 30 Jan 2007 17:52 |
I'm very surprised at the bad reviews on here - I've been an intermittent visitor here for years but before the refurb and under the old management was coming here even less as it seemed to be full of kids on their wat to richmond. However, in the last couople of months I've been coming here a lot more and I think it's a great pub - staff are friendlier than ever, the crowd is a bit more marture again and even the food is amazing - I ate here 2 weeks ago and it was stunning - I was expecting it to be OK but not that good. Was with relatives and all of us thought the food was first class in every way including service. I had blackened chicken with pasta and a gorgeous sauce and it was great - and so much of it I could hardly finish it, never mind manage to eat all my mother's chips. And one of my granny's sausages.
I am very fussy when it comes to pubs but I'm afraid I don't recognise the one described below in those negative reviews - the St Mags is back to its best and I now come from the other side of Twickenham at least 2 or 3 times a week to enjoy it.
Dave
anonymous - 26 Jan 2007 18:54 |
Sorry, it's still rubbish, too bright, soulless and full of scary blokes. Staff seem generally disinterested and food is too expensive. An average to poor station pub now with no character. Shameful but true. Oh, the quiz is mindless twaddle as well.
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doesn't anybody have a nice word to say these days? Cracking pub, have had some fab nights here since the new management took over. Specials are changed daily and fresh, eat here loads. Keep up the good work!!!
anonymous - 22 Jan 2007 22:50 |
This used to be my favourite pub in St Margarets with a very friendly local atmosphere and a huge food menu. Sadly it seems to have changed hands and gone downhill. The menu has been drastically downsized and the food is nowhere near as good as it used to be. Even the quiz night lacks atmosphere these days. On the plus side, half of the pub is now non-smoking. I hope the current owners will note these recent reviews and try to bring some charm back into the place.
anonymous - 30 Nov 2006 18:03 |
Most importantly, the food was good though nothing special considering it's unappetising inflation of price, and the ale was always as good as it used to be. Slightly more commercial looking but thats a good vibe never the less. Sad that we refer to peoples names on forums, (Mrs anon be ashamed of your bitchiness) other users dont want to see that. I know this kid, and I'm positive that the last place he wants to binge in is this pub. Management seems to be creating a firmer hold upon the indentity of this self styled eatery and I wish them all the best.
anonymous - 9 Nov 2006 00:00 |
Loved this place once upon a time-busy, fantastic atmosphere and service with a smile from staff that genuinely want to be there. Sunday nights were without a doubt the best, with brilliant bands... Not so sure anymore. Staff don't know what they're talking about and seem a bit slow on the uptake, you'd be faster if you served yourself! Maybe it's unfair to say but the new management are yet to prove themselves! Hmmm...
anonymous - 8 Nov 2006 13:01 |
In my opinion the St Mags is settling down again under the new management. OK, so the pub group owners put the prices up but it is now very well run, welcoming and a good place to be
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As someone who has spent a bit of time at the maggies over the past year, I have to say I think the staff and management have done a fab job. To put up with the shit that most of them have to deal with from us the customers is not easy. Even I can be accused of giving them a hard time, but they always work their hardest to deliver to their best. It's not theirs or the managements fault the pricing has gone up, if Osh was still there the prices would have gone up exactly the same amount, so don't go shooting the messengers
And by the way Luke, I often watch you give the bar staff a hard time, if they give you a short measure, then buddy you deserve it
anonymous - 4 Nov 2006 15:57 |
I think the refurb was OK, and the people seem friendly enough. The consistent short measures on the pints are beginning to get annoying though. It's very wearing having to ask for a top up every time you get a round in.
anonymous - 12 Oct 2006 13:25 |
Food is fantastic, thought at first a little pricey for pub food but the standard and the generous portions make up for it. No problem with the service at the bar or restaurant. Children allowed in the restaurant until 8pm - shame they don't have a childs menu though as could eat here a lot more then.
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What a shame! I thought the re furb might improve it but it's going downhill! Fast!!! All they need to do is teach the staff some customer service skills and that would help no end! As with the other reviews, the pricing is high and service low! Why should you be treated like an outcast when you ask for a cold white wine?
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We were in the St Margarets this last friday night and had a really great time. It was nice to see it busy again and everyone seemed to be having a good time. Great relaxed atmosphere. Staff were friendly and helpful. The non smoking section is a relief and our food was lovely. I will definately be back in the future.
12_34 - 25 Sep 2006 14:31 |
A local resident who used to frequent this pub regularly - I was astonished when I came in post-refurb and ownership change. The trouble began early when my good lady was served a draft diet coke that was flat. I alerted the staff politely to this and they seemed to take offence. Confusion followed as no-one seemed to know how to change the gas. Atmosphere was lacking, reminiscent of station waiting rooms. We had contemplated eating, but overheard that there was a 40-50 minute wait for food...which I thought was surprising given the rather limited numbers of diners. As other posters have remarked, prices have gone up by at least 10%. Bit of a shame really.
anonymous - 12 Sep 2006 09:54 |
What Occured!. Used to be a happening place. The best
quiz in the area has moved to the Turks Head. Prices are way too high and the atmosphere is like a hotel lounge somewhere out of town. Shame, it's returning to how it was 5 years ago.
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Used to be the place to go, but not any more. Won't bother anymore because I've never known a pub where every single one of the barstaff gives you a short measure every time. At over £3 a pint, I want a full glass!
Ok, they'll top up the huge heads on the beer if you ask them, but it becomes tiresome doing it every time (and if you're in a round ordering several different pints it's impossible!).
anonymous - 6 Sep 2006 00:16 |
It was terrible, I can't really be bothered to say more only that it wasn't great before but my friends are local to there and so we ventured back in, to no avail at the weekend. A Saturday night and a handful of groupy-samey people. There were so many bar staff, all wandering about aimlessly I felt dangeously outnumbered by the uniformed clones!! God Awful agggh and £15.20 for a bottle of wine. And how elitist is that showing Rugby and not football!!! Not good God am not being fragged there again!!
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I say "Good Luck " to the new landlord, he seems a really nice chap.Everywhere needs to move on, give the guy a chance. Probably not his choice on beer stocking policy, thats the trouble with managed house companies, they think they know best!!
9/10
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Well it's been open for a week or so now, so a few comments (the last I'm going to make).
GOOD THINGS
- very high quality refurb
- the yobs have gone
- new umbrellas, heaters are good and will be very good in the Autumn
- non smoking area - brilliant
- the candles are back!
- beer is consistently good
- wine ditto and properly chilled
- clean, now obviously well run
- late night snacks - great idea
- live music Sundays continues
- quiz night continues
NOT SO GOOD
- prices have gone up, my guess is by 6-10%
- its now a bit more "serious" than it was, less laid back - but I reckon the atmosphere will relax as the new team settle in
AND ITS GOODBYE FROM HIM...
Boy did we miss it while it was shut. Three or four years ago if someone had said that a pub of this quality would land in the middle of St Margarets I would have said they were dreaming. But they weren't and after a refurb it's back again smarter than ever. I now intend to stop posting worried comments about the place and just get on with the drinking.
Good luck to the new team
anonymous - 12 Aug 2006 17:17 |
Just moved to St Margarets and definitely like having this pub just over the road. Only criticism is the Wetherspoon-y choice of lager - what's the point in having both Carling and Fosters, both Kronenbourg and Stella? Getting rid of one or other of each of those pairs and replacing with Amstel or Staropramen would definitely improve things.
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Went in last night, Sunday, very quiet inside but quite a few people outside. Main changes seem to be cosmetic, new carpet, walls painted, chairs re-covered, tables varnished. They've reinstated the side door. There is now a huge aircon unit that blows out from above the bar and which made us move table to avoid the draught. There was a ventilation problem in the St Mags previously and it is good to see that they have tried to solve it but I'm not sure this is the way. The lamb shoulder has gone from the menu which is a tragedy. On the whole not much else has changed but price for a pint of London Pride seems to have risen sharply.
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Re Australian Monkeynuts (crazy name fella-so cool) - said it was a great boozer in its time - probably 25 years ago !! Lets try and stick to the subject - St Margarets Tavern - wishing the new landlord all the best !!
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I'd keep my name as anon if it was squatter. what are you so proud about? Besides, you like The Australian on Sloane, who are you to talk tough guy? Mr.Anon sounds like he has a point(has gone a bit downhill), also sounds like he clearly has been to the pub before why else would he post a well written and accurate (not too accurate but close enough) account of his experience, and yes alot of tradesman frequented the place but thats the whole feel, the range of clientele co existing. the irish fella had it spot on, how hard can it be?...unless it is very hard and the irish fella was very good...pehaps may be the case....
Cant wait till friday...
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Why do people , who obviously don't use the place , always stay as Mr Anon ???? A very good boozer and we all hope the new landlord can return it to its former glories .
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I think John sounds like a nice guy, he's obviously good at his job otherwise he wouldn't have left a pub he had worked in for 16 years (The Hoop & Toy; South Kensington, nice boozer)
To me it seems that the pubs refurbishment could not have come at a better time. I say this NOT because the decor was slightly damp and rustic, some people call that character, and the toilets could be hazerdous on a busy night, BUT...because it was going seiously down hill for what ever reason.
Grimey ink ridden forearms carressing the dripping wet tall bar was becoming an all too familiar sight, their owners voice booming across the room, in a colloquial disonant manner, whilst dribbling over the unhealthy looking, hagard staff. The St.Margarets tavern has shed its restaurant/pub/winter bar skin and set its course for the Land of shit service pubdom.
I egearly anticipate its reopening, good luck Mr.Collins.
Ah yes, you say you didn't realise how hard it was running two pubs, well to be honest, how easy did you think it could be?
anonymous - 30 Jul 2006 01:34 |
Hi, I used to work at the pub after Osh took over, and I'm looking forward to coming back and seeing the new re-furb. Although it is a realy nice area to live in, the locals are what keep it running and if they have to go home to change before they can get a beer, well it seems a bit silly. It worked perfectly fine before, and i hope that people don't decide to go somewhere else because of it.
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Great to hear from you, John, and thanks for being so frank about the pub.
I know my friends and I are delighted that the flags are going, but we hope the pub quiz and live music will stay! The food is great and the bar staff are nearly always friendly (Given it has been such a busy time I guess they've had more stress to deal with than usual.)
Any chance you could convince the spirit group to change that Rose for something slightly more drinkable?
Speaking for those who really care about having what was (in February) still a super pub, I welcome the refurbishment and your changes - which will hopefully bring the pub back to its former glory. Welcome to St Margaret's.
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Hi Jon,
Good to hear from you and I look forward to the opening of the Tavern after the Refurb! Good Luck!
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Hi there,
This is John the new manager at The St. Margarets. Just thought I'd post a note and try to clear up a few rumours and myths! Firstly I'd like to apologise to anyone who feels that the pub has gone down hill in recent months and I'd like to reassure you all that I fully intend to change things to restore it to the pub it once was. I only finally moved into The St. Margarets on Tuesday July 4th after running my previous pub in Sth. Kensington for sixteen years. Running the two pubs for a couple of months has been harder than I thought.
Right then........we are NOT going to become a football pub. We will not show premiership football next season. I am a football fan myself but I do not believe screening football is right for this pub.Along with almost every other pub in the country not showing the World Cup was not really an option. However,come Sunday night the flags etc will be gone!!! We WILL show rugby.
The refurbishment will begin on Monday morning July 10th and we are hoping to re open on Thursday August 3rd (builders permitting)When we open up I'm sure everyone/most will like the new appearance and it will give us an opportunity to make a fresh start. The St. Margarets will have a dress code that will involve wearing a shirt at all times.....inside and out. Those wearing soiled clothing or boots will be asked to change at work before coming in for a pint.I don't like to exclude anyone if I can help it but if people are spoiling others enjoyment they will simply have to find somewhere else to drink. This process may take a few weeks and involve a few differences of opinion but is very necessary.
This is a fantastic area to live and work and I'm really looking forward to becoming part of this community. If anyone has any suggestions please post them on this site and I will certainly consider them. Please remember that I'm the manager NOT the owner!!!
If you want to know what is happening to the pub during the refurbishment just ask and I can post some details of the proposed works.
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I haven't asked the landlord because I have only seen him for the first time since his tenure commenced.
Whilst I have no truck with you flying in the face of popular opinion, to call the place a "shithole" is obtuse to say the least. And this vintage of bar staff is far poorer than the last.
The food is always good - one thing that's remained constant.
I'm glad to see the new landlord isn't looking to radically alter things and I welcome his posting on this board.
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Anonymous(4th July 2006) obviously isn't Oisin's biggest fan for reasons which may remain unclear. However, nobody can deny the fact that the place has gone downhill since he departed. You only have to read the rest of the comments on this page and judge for yourselves...
If this re-furb really is going ahead, I really hope it restores the place back to its former glory. Let's wait and see.
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Have any of you actually asked the new manager why there's so many 'changes???' Just so you know, Oisin left the St Margarets by choice and moved to Youngs brewery. The new manager has been pidgenholed by his head office to show the football whilst the world cup is on. NOT his choice and I can guarantee that there will NOT be any footie shown again. The pub will be closing for a 3 week refurb, and by the time it's reopened the staff will be completely retrained, and anyone who has caused any trouble in the pub at anytime will not be welcome back. I drank in the St Margs whilst Oisin was in charge and it was a shithole. The staff couldn't speak english, food was shite, toilets shitty. So you think it's got worse??? I think you guys have to give the new guy a chance, it seriously can't be any worse than it was
anonymous - 4 Jul 2006 04:35 |
I so agree with vic20. Knew Oisin back in his Marlborough days which he did wonders with [excellent kangarro steaks]. Can't believe how amazingly well he transformed the St Mags as I've lived here forever - formerly it was a dive but Oisin transformed it - it was brilliant...a proper rugby pub.
IS THERE NO CHANCE HE COULD COME BACK PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE!!!
Since he's gone, Charlie did a fab job for a month [and oh so cute too!], but since then, welcome to Chav city! Was famous for not being a football pub - but the new manager has completely knocked that on the head. It's now loud, raucous, rowdy, has lost all its atmosphere. The staff are useless and can barely understand a 'G & T' - gave me one last night with no lemon or lime and every refill glass was hot. They really couldn't care less - foods still good but please get rid of the riff raff and put in a manager who understands customer service!
Spirit need their heads tested for moving Oisin elsewhere..how to destroy a brilliant pub in 28 days case study: St Margarets Tavern!
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Oh dear... how to ruin a pub in less than a month.
A lovely, relaxed place, perfect for chilling with friends, grabbing a bite to eat, participating in the good old 100% quiz and catching some of the great live music.
But now... it doesn't have the same feel. For sure, the clientele have changed for the worse - though as well as the "chavs" there also seems to be an influx of underage drinkers (and its fairly blatant underage drinking). The kind of people who think its okay to bring your own beer to drink in the garden... mind you, the place seems very very empty during the week compared to how it was a month or so back.
The football I can understand - its a "nice little earner" - but to permananently show it is wrong for the pub. There's nothing snobbish about this - I enjoy seeing a match as anyone - its just this isn't the pub for it.
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Oisin - PLEASE COME BACK!!!
I moved to St Margarets about a year ago and one of the best things in the area was the Tavern. Friends could not believe having such a good, friendly, well run boozer minutes walk away from where I lived.
Since the change in management, its rapidly gone downhill. Most of the great bar staff are history, the crowd has taken a dramatic turn for the worse, the lighting and layout are poor. Small touches such as candles on the tables went some way to creating a unique atmosphere. Now, it could be any chain pub, with a crowd too old for "Edwards".
At least the Kevins and Sharons weren't there on Sunday evening. However, no one was - the place was empty.
Perhaps the change in the St Margarets Tavern is a mark of things to come - Yummy Mummy will change its name Pramface, Birkett will move to stocking sportswear and Brula will be turned into a kebab shop.
vic20 - 12 Jun 2006 17:56 |
I agree with all the recent comments on here. The pub does now look shabby and uncared for, and the recent influx of chavs (how/why did they suddenly start coming here?) means you have to choose your time to visit carefully - Friday and Sat evening are now definitely times to avoid.
As others have said - see you down the Turks Head.
What a shame.
anonymous - 12 Jun 2006 10:55 |
Well, having read all the recent unfavourable comments about the pub since the change of management, I though I would go and see for myself with an open mind.
It is clear that this is now a "football pub" as opposed to what it was before - a "rugby pub". This means inevitably that it has now gone considerably down market as any pub would. It does indeed seem that more of the Kevins and Sharons now frequent this place and the Piers and Henriettas have moved on. Having said that, the beer range seems unchanged so far and I was served a decent pint efficiently and by friendly staff. Food range still seems quite varied. The atmosphere did not seem particularly unfriendly despite the change in customer profile.
I think I would summarise by saying that the jury is still out as far as I am concerned
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Nice pub, friendly staff and popular will go back.
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Bit odd this alright. This used to be my (very) regular haunt. The fact remains that Oisin knew what he was doing and, often in defiance of his handlers at Spirit, imposed his own personality on the pub to take it from a empty boozer to an extremely successful and atmospheric pub. In short, he was doing something right. Low lighting, no menus in plastic holders, no soccer, no two-for-one promos, all contributed, bit by bit, to the creation an unique place to visit.
The new landlord seems affable and competent, but the simple fact is that he has missed a trick and I'm quite sure that this must be beginning to be reflected in the takings. I don't think that price rises are the answer here, or in any pub. I think at this stage they're comitted to showing the World Cup, so get that out of the way, get rid of the football and go back to a winning formula. I for one, and lots of others, would venture back in from time to time.
I'd also politely suggest that they also get someone else to write on the blackboards outside as they look like they've been written left-handed by a dyslexic midget (and I mean that in a nice way, folks).
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I think everyone realizes that the barmaid who can't spell, write or punctuate is entitled to her opinion but the fact remains that this pub has been ruined by the introduction of incoherent uncaring staff, bright lights, St Georges flags, football and fighting. I could not believe my eyes when I visited on Sunday evening. The place is dull and looks totally uncared for. This used to be the best pub in West London, worth travelling far to, full of fun and stunning women. I have emailed the pub to complain about the recent changes and have had no response. Why do the new management make no comment. They cannot possibly be making any extra money on the hoards of burberry and track suited swearing clientele. Very, very strange if you ask me.
anonymous - 24 May 2006 12:16 |
I REALLY LOVE THIS PUB. I LOVE ST.MARGARETS TAVERN. I'M HERE EVERY DAY AND IT'S FANTASTIC.I THINK NOW IT'S MUCH BETTER THEN WAS EALIER WHEN OSIN WAS THERE.
anonymous - 22 May 2006 17:31 |
Well, Mr Anonymous, nobody in their right mind goes out to an urban pub on Friday night nowadays, so you're not really deserving of sympathy. But, yes, Monday - Thursdays evenings won't be the same if the scumbags come in in on those nights as well. What's the Turks Head like nowadays, anyone ?
anonymous - 17 May 2006 13:44 |
I know where I won't be on Friday. I don't think it is snobby to be slightly perturbed when having to share your evening with people, some of whom have the conversational skills and social etiquette of neanderthals. I'm staggered at the change in atmosphere/clientele in this pub over the last few months...Where is there to enjoy a quiet pint in St. Margaret's these days?
anonymous - 17 May 2006 13:25 |
All pubs should show football, thats just been a load of snobs. You dont like it coz its busier and more goin on now all the posh people dont like football. And its well cheap. Be down Friday wiv the boyz.
anonymous - 17 May 2006 11:27 |
You're Chaving a laugh aren't ya?
I cannot believe that St. Margarets is letting itself go.
From a business perspective, I understand that the management thinks that it has to put the football on -logic is that as it will draw the customers in and more customers = more sales = more profits.
There are couple of flaws in this strategy though. Two obvious ones are the quality of punter that will be attracted and their propensity to spend.
What's the likelihood of these idiots drinking before they arrive so as not to fork out too much at the bar?
What's the chance of them ordering a meal when they can go to the chippy across the road?
If St Margarets is aiming at this end of the market, I am sure that the management might find that their loyal customers go elsewhere.
Not showing the World Cup is probably not an option as the vast majority of people have an interst in it anyway. But the World Cup is the only football they should show.
To avoid attracting the undesirable elements during the World Cup, St Margarets should hike up the price of their drinks and refuse service to anybody who (1) uses the word "innit" (2) wears a tracksuit - unless you can prove that you have just come from the gym or sports field, and (3) has fathered a child at the age of 15.
Failing this, St. Margarets should simply rebrand as a "Chaverspoons" and sell cheap nasty beer. They should also considering relocating to Hounslow so their new clientelle can get back to the Young Offenders Institute with ease.
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Gutted to hear about what has happened to Maggies. I moved to Surbiton at the start of the year and have spent the last 5 months looking for a new pub nirvana without success. Now it appears that the original pub nirvana no longer exists, still I'm glad I haven't had to witness first hand this corporate cock up. Anybody know where Oisin went with his awesome recruitment policy?
anonymous - 15 May 2006 12:01 |
Not sure if it's the change of management that’s brought this on, personally I don't think so - new manager seems like a good guy who realises there’s a storm brewing. What was once a pub rated highly even in the national press, a favored watering hole for all the locals and a great venue to meet at before and after the rugby at Twickenham has now been relegated to the Shell suit division. Went there last Sunday - only to find the entire upper level covered in wall to wall 3/4 tracksuits, white Reebok Classics and Burberry caps. Bright lighting and a total change of bar staff have proved to much of a temptation for the local trailer trash, never have I seen such a butt ugly group of patrons in my life! Witnessed two fights here in the last month……and now they are going to run with the idea of screening the football!!!! What a joke, there is very little chance of me walking in to a pub full of overweight Chavs with there shirts off, sporting tattoos of their newly borns first name. ! This are not just my feelings, a lot of people I know have turned there back on St Margaret’s. Please guys, if you read this – increase your prices (never thought I’d say that), set a dress code and don’t screen the football on a regular basis – you have a loyal audience that’ll keep the place going, not drive it into the ground.
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I totally agree with the last 2 comments. Atmosphere is grotty. Used to go to the Tavern a few time a week - don't even fancy it once a month now. Sorry guys but since the management changed, this place has gone downhill. Invest some money in attractive and efficient bar staff, get rid of the football and bring the sparkle back!
pinot - 12 May 2006 08:58 |
Hear hear, Can't bear to go in there now in case I get blinded or beaten up. Atmosphere totally gone and very very tatty decor. Now showing The Football no less. Why???? What an awful thing to do to a really good pub. And all the pretty bar staff have left too, don't blame them. I'll see you round The Turks.
anonymous - 11 May 2006 23:31 |
Amazing what a change of management can do to a Fantastic Pub.. in a Matter of weeks it has gone from St Margarets Tavern a Pub with Cozy yet Vibrant atmosphere to St CHAV Tavern with Bright Lighting no atmosphere and at least one or two CHAV punch ups a night.. Please New Guys get your act together and save what was one of the Best Pubs I have known!!!
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Thanks to everyone involved for an amazing week and a fantastic weekend. If anyone has any pictures please send them to me. Mcmoop@hotmail.com. See you all somewhere soon. Oisin and crew.
Oisin - 21 Mar 2006 10:15 |
A pub that was once a little grot-hole with nothing going for it. A while back it got extended, and now has a large lounge area with an open fire and leather sofas - very nice and comfy - you could take your gran there with no complaints.
Very pretty barstaff.
Good live music
Young 'clientelle'
Food and drink a little expensive, but nothing too outrageous
A wide range of wine, and overall that's the feel of the place - a middle-class wine drinker's paradise
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Brilliant pub. The best in the area. Very professional and friendly staff. Drinks are varied and reasonably priced.
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My local and a very good pub. Great staff, great beer, great wine (although at £4.95 per glass it's also grating - but you get what you pay for), great atmosphere.
Couldn't really improve it.
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The quiz? Impossible? You're having a laugh aren't you? You want to try the Red Lion in Isleworth. Their quiz makes the St. Margarets effort look like the TV Quick cross-word in comparison.
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But never do the quiz its impossible
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The best Pub in the area for food and drinks, it also is full of amasing women particularly the staff are gorgeous. But the food is great and the drinks arn't to expensive much!!!
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Just had my best night out in ages, tried the rest, ended up at the BEST! Local wannabies forget it St Mags is still the greatest around! Tip top ales & food after 10 if you ask nicely. Don't venture out of W4 much, but when i do this is the place for me and as for the staff............Far to classy for FHM !!!!!
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the best pub in town by far. great food vast range of drinks and friendly staff.good mix of people create a great atmosphere in this pub(the vibe other new pubs in the area are trying to copy) well done Osh,John,Anna and staff. plaese keep it up!
always busy, but still able to get served,fantastic. and the staff..top marks:)
if you go there on a sunday evening not only is there good music, you will bump into the local sporting celebs, the Quinns, the Exciles and the mighty Osin Celtic.
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Why oh why aren't you serving Magners in here? Strange that the management have a secret stash for themselves and will drink it infont of the punters, but for some reason they don't serve it. Used to drink in here about 3 times a week. Now we find ourselves wandering down to the Crown because they serve a better cider. Also, please can you ask the girl with the short hair to loose the attitude. While all of the other staff are really friendly, I don't think I've seen her smile once.
anonymous - 23 Sep 2005 17:08 |
The food is not just good it's great! I eat there regularly and never have a problem getting served. There are always floor staff round the pub serving food and drink - all you have to do is give them a wave and they'll be more than happy to come over to take your order - couldn't be easier!
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I live next door to The St Margarets Tavern and I eat there at least twice a week. It clearly says on the menus that if you want to order food you let them know at the bar and they send a server to your table. They always do. It would be chaos if everybody was ordering food at the bar. The food, atmosphere and music are indeed excellent and I have refused to move house due to my proximity to this pub. My only criticism is that it must be illegal to only employ barmaids who look like they have just been in an FHM photoshoot. My missus goes mental when she's in there with me because I have a bit of a roving eye!
anonymous - 21 Sep 2005 20:05 |
The food at this pub is good. However, the problem is finding someone to take your order. It's pot luck if one of the waitresses comes to your table and I usually have to seek them out (the pub refuses to take orders at the bar). I wrote to the manager but he never replied.
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Decent sized pub with plenty of seating.Visited yesterday whilst there was a charity street fair -including music- going on outside....Quite bizarre to see John,Paul,George & Ringo doing there thing, with the atmospheric dry ice being unintentionally supplied by the chorizo stall next to the stage......
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Oisin has turned this place round big time we all remember driving past it years ago and we just kept on driving now it has a welcome atmosphere and food to die for also it has a bit of live music on sundays, and mondays there is a trad session with some of the finest players on the london irish music scene John Cargo top flatist, Mark "thunderfingers" Conyard on fiddle and banjo and the prodigal Tad Seargant on the bódhran underpinning the whole thing. Ignore the negative comments about this place as the boss makes every effort to keep everyone happy and a rare sighting these days is a boss that wants to talk to his patrons and have a craic with them. It's not about how much extra a pint is in pubs but more a point of being happy with the service, over 5 pints all you may pay is an extra £1 thats 20p per pint I would pay double that to go into a pub that has a seat on the loo and toilet paper and a food menu that actually exists. How hard can it be it's basic needs and this pub offers it and more.
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Now then, here's a ladies perspective...boys we want your undivided attention at the pub..we know how difficult it is for you to multitask at the best of times..so no TV's please showing football. Rugby is passable as its only on once in a while..and we girls like to watch Jonny W and his thighs (when he's able to play!)..and cricket...well there's plenty of breaks - so plenty of opportunity for you to engage us in interesting conversation in between overs! Pubs without TV's mean there's more opportunity for eyes to meet across a crowded floor...say no more!
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Aoife - the no-football policy of this pub is a blessing to those of us who like to enjoy a night out free from the intrusion of football, which at some points seems to be on every night with the majority of pubs showing it. St Margarets is a haven for non-football fans. The rugby and cricket you refer to are generally afternoon matches, unlike football which is regularly on late into the evenings.
I have often decided to go for a quiet drink of a weekday evening only to end up walking by the chosen establishment because I don’t wish to spend the night distracted by some dull football match involuntarily drawing my eyes towards the screen. Not everyone likes football yet in most pubs we are unable to escape it.
Whether you like it or not, football crowds do have a reputation and the atmosphere and clientele in pubs showing football is entirely different to those that don’t.
There are plenty of other places to watch football – almost any other pub you could wish to find. If you want to watch it, enjoy St Margarets on the rare occasion there is none on and be thankful that they stick to their guns and allow this pub to continue its widespread appeal.
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OK in the evenings and during the week with decent food. Can get mobbed at the weekends.
Genuine question that no-one at the pub seems to want to answer though - Why, when the pub management have no problem showing the rugby and cricket do they not also show football? I was sneered at when I asked by a member of staff with the reply 'We don't want those sort of people in here'. As someone who has never caused trouble in a pub ever in my life I took great offence to this and has left a sour taste in the mouth. I also left the lady in question in doubt as to how I felt about her snide comment.
As I said a genuine question - If it is a policy of the pub then fair enough but can anyone confirm this is a brewery / management decision? With long Winter nights approaching it would be fantastic to sit in on a Wednesday night and watch the football with my friends and a few pints in my local. Obviously some people will disagree with any sports been shown on the TV (if so why the rugby and cricket) but there is the smaller front bar which would be ideal for the purpose.
Aoife - 18 Aug 2005 12:45 |
one of the friendliest pubs in London.... food comes quickly, is very tasty and always delivered with a cheeky smile. Has been great being able to watch the Lions with a beer and a bite to eat. Well done. The assistant manager is quite cute
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Can't wait for the Lions tests!...as for the sofas..where else could you sit back and lounge whilst 15ft away from a live band! the layout of the pub is spot on...caters for all! hence its always busy and attracts people from afar....
i found a wolly hat on the sofa the other night..you sure GP?
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A deceptively large pub, which in essence has a bar area and a lounge/eating area. It appears to have been done well - the eating area was a little too crowded with tables, but the place was heaving (for a week night). I think I would have prefered to have stayed in the bar area, but my friends were already firmly ensconced in the far corner of the lounge/eating area. I will definitely come back to this pub in future.
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Went for the first time this weekend, and loved it! Shame the manager was not there, everyone says he's hot! Great food and service... well done!
anonymous - 6 Jun 2005 10:09 |
Still love it! Would be absolutely fantastic if you could get some more tables and chairs outside though. It's a shame you can't use some of that car park...
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Each to their own Cmerrigan, I was with 8 other people and all agreed that the place was unbearably hot. Smokey as well. No woolly hat! It needs Aircon, or even perhaps, a window opening. Don't be defensive about your pub, constructive criticism was all I was offering, not slagging it off for no reason!
I agree that the food looked good and the service was good.
Plus for a Lions game I reckon it would be a good place to watch it.
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I find it hard to believe anyone could fall asleep on a sunday evening at The St Margarets! From my experience it has great live music and a feel good atmosphere, it has almost become my medicine to kickstart the week ahead... just what the doctor ordered!
Also a good menu - and friendly, helpful staff. Looking forward to summer drinks there.
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The St Margarets is absolutely fantastic - anybody who was there last Sunday for the bank holiday will testify to just how much atmosphere there is in the place! Add to that the food and the staff (or just add the staff to the menu) and you will see just how special the place is.
TheGP should book an appointment asap with a colleague to get his hearing/eyesight checked! Also think he may have a fever although his temperature may have been due to the wooly hat he was undoubtedly wearing.
Sure to be a huge hit for the Lions Rugby tour!
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Lookes very impressive from the outside. When I went in, I was hit by the size of the place - It's massive!
Lots of people in there were eating, and although I didn't eat, it looked pretty good.
As somewhere to go for a drink in the evening though I feel it falls short. It is absolutely packed, hence you can't hear yourself think, never mind have a conversation (perhaps too many tables crammed together methinks). Also the problem with having sofas in a pub like this is that no-one can hear anything and when they dim the lights around 9ish, you might as well drift off to sleep.
The temperature was very uncomfortable, the pub badly needs some decent ventilation, or indeed Aircon. Service was good though considering how busy it was. It was also full of people who clearly like to go "Drinking in St Margarets" as a badge of honour, as some sort of status symbol rather than as an enjoyable night out.
All in all, a disappointment, but I can imagine if you came in here in the day perhaps, it would be a much improved experience, so I don't want to put anyone off a visit.
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In response to the review by John Bonser, I live in St Margarets and feel that this pub is neither typical nor unremarkable. There are no pubs like this one anywhere near and as for a target market, the beauty of this pub is that it hasn't got one. I shall continue to use my local because the food is excellent, the wine is good and the service is amazing. 6.2 out of 10? Should be 9.5!
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Unremarkable pub, fairly typical of the area.
Trying to be all things to all men ( or should that be persons ?)and not really sure in my view what its target clientele is.
Service is quick and efficient though and staff seem friendly and helpful.
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I don't know what it was like before the refit but whatever they did, they did it right. I'm particularly impressed at its self-declared 'football-free zone'. This pub is busy no matter when you go in, getting served is never a problem at the bar no matter how packed it is, although table service can be a bit slow - I've also had to go to the bar and ask on several occasions. Great for spotting rugby players and the odd person you recognise off the telly. Excellent quiz on a Tuesday. Extensive menu so you're always spoilt for choice. Friendly bar staff and food turns up pretty promply and is delicious, swaddled beef indeed! I'd also recommend salmon linguine, in fact I may have to go there this afternoon... Definitely worth many visits.
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This place rocks. The beer is great, the food fantastic and the staff are extremely professional. Even when packed to the rafters they always seemed to know who's next at the bar - I've never waited more than 2 mins for a pint, even on match days.
Well worth a vist. At another one. and another.
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I really liked St Mags tavern when they did it up, but it seems to be getting a younger crowd, ie. 18, and that I don't like. The food is very good. Worth a trip if you are in the area.
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Good pub, great interior, lovely staff - my pasta had a touch of the 'microvwave meal' about it though.
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Some of you lot just don't get out enough! Its OK. The food is good, good choice of decent beer and its near to the station. Like any pub in this area, it gets a pretty grim when the rugger crowd poor in on a match day, but at least its big enough to cope. I'd say its all a bit too contrived for my liking: feels more like Habitat than a pub. Its all very safe, very middle-class and a bit uninteresting.
anonymous - 24 Mar 2005 13:00 |
Osh - your pub ROCKS and you have a bloomin' fine and dandy drinking establishment with some of the best pub food I have ever tasted! This place is just the best and if you are moving to the area make sure you make this your local! Brilliant staff, great atmosphere, nice punters and the best nachos this side of heaven...and when the England 7's and Quins teams turned up on Sunday the pub was catapulted into suuper suuper stardom!
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this pub cannot get any better, can it!.
great choice of food and drink. the atmosphere is fantastic, a friendly local pub with staff to match.
the place to be on rugby days, many a great night had in the Mags..top marks oisin!
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Best pub in west london. Fantastic atmosphere and friendly bar staff. Always guaranteed a good night. Food menu is varied and interesting and I've had no problems with service. Keep up the good work!
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Shit.Still Suffering handover.. Let me start again. Must be one of the best PUBS in London. Fantastic Staff, All so very friendly, good looking and very helpful. Can't beat the Atmosphere here on a sunday/ sunday night especially when a rugby game is on... This is a Must for me this summer.. Hope you have the same experience.
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wonderful pub - food is great and friendsly atmoshere. 5 out of 5!
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This used to be the WORST pub in greater London, and they really did make quite an effort to be rude, awful, scary and dirty. This pub is now a local legend. Its comfortable, the drinks are good and not expensive. The food is brilliant. There is never even a hint of any trouble. You will always meet someone to have a chat to and the staff are very attentive. I should know it's my local. Sometimes you do have to wait a while for your food but that's probably because everybody wants to eat there.
anonymous - 26 Feb 2005 10:54 |
Have to agree with last comment. Service good but had to remind staff 4 times that we wanted food at table. Otherwise - great pub.
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A really popular pub. It's always full. Nice atmosphere & good food. Much better than any of the nasty chain pubs in Richmond. Sometimes they let you down with the table service, which is a shame because that's one of the things I thought was a great selling point.
pinot - 24 Feb 2005 17:37 |
Well managed pub that is consistently excellent. Always busy with a great atmoshere and attentive staff. I've never been to an airport that looked like this, if I had I'd have probably missed my flight!
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Truely awful... Great if you've managed to save up the bus fare from Hounslow I guess... Typical identikit pub, with the main area resembling an airport lounge. Food good however.
anonymous - 15 Feb 2005 10:41 |
I drink here about twice a week. It's consistantly brilliant with excellent staff, drinks and broccoli. Seriously unbeatable.
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Great drink, great food, great atmosphere - what more could you want????
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i love this place, my boyfriend does too and his parents came down for the rugby last weekend , they thought the atmosphere was great, shame they won't be here for the aussie game, should be a good day, they've promised they'll stock up on VB, crown and bundy! not looking forward to the hangover on sunday though!
anonymous - 25 Nov 2004 19:56 |
Great if you like broccoli. The food side of things seems to be on a downward spiral. On the 22nd Nov to celebrate "World Cup Day" I had a meal with my wife and sister. We chose vegetable tempura to start followed by two servings of veg to go with our mains. Starter was a huge plate of battered broccoli and both our other veg portions were loads more broccoli - in all there must have been nearly 3lbs of the stuff. "Chef says that's the only veg there is" said the waitress as off she went to look cute elsewhere
Magoo - 25 Nov 2004 15:07 |
Everyone who loves this pub, logon and rate 10, so we can let everybody know its the place to go.
anonymous - 3 Nov 2004 01:46 |
For anyone who doesn't want to worry whether they are going to have a good night out, go here you always will. All the staff are lovely, and the service, and atmosphere is great!
anonymous - 3 Nov 2004 01:29 |
I came over from Oz for Euro 2004 and I stayed with a mate who lived locally for a few days beforehand. ('Weeks' he said!!)We visited this place a few times and always enjoyed a pint or three here. It's a big, busy pub with lots of atmosphere. Efficient service from some attractive (Polish I think ) barmaids. Well worth a visit.
Graeme Catty - 1 Nov 2004 00:47 |
Great for food (can't beat the burgers) and does a decent quiz on Tuesdays. Wouldn't say it was great for a piss up though as the atmosphere isn't great due to its size and during the day its proliferation of young families.
Thumbs - 27 Oct 2004 15:18 |
Excellant food and service. My wife found the staff were knowledgable about the menu when asked.
Simon - 3 Oct 2004 14:52 |
wow...i am amazed! i used to work for chef & brewer uk in chertsey head office (marketing), and myself and a few others had rooms on the top floor of the st margarets, haven`t seen it in some 12 years os so and i can`t believe the transformation! looking at the photos on the internet is just incredible. i`m going to have to make the journey from swansea to visit in person and sample the fayre. mike dubens
anonymous - 11 Sep 2004 20:09 |
The manager seems to be more interested in chatting to the local skirt than serve genuine customers...perhaps a cold shower would supress his unnatural urges.
rob - 7 Sep 2004 14:36 |
it's great- my problem is once you get in you cant leave it's like you get sucked in by the comfy sofas- really nice atmosphere good beer and superb views, whoever hires the staff has done a good, good job cute blonde girls and gorgeous brunettes in racy boots. Almost choked on my beer...
On a more serious note fantastic food (loving the swaddled beef and burgers) and staff are always on hand to help. Id recommend it 100%.
anonymous - 4 Jul 2004 21:09 |
this place just gets better all the time (not that i thought it was possible) friendly staff, relly nice food ( arabiata chicken is highly recommended ) and the management seem to do a good job of keeping the idiots out. Definately a 'must visit' pub
john - 2 Jul 2004 22:57 |
great atmosphere and service
michael - 15 Jun 2004 12:45 |
This is a great pub with lovely food and a good selection of real ales along with decent wines, bottles of world beers and the very tasty Kronenburg Blanc! Bar service has always been good whenever I've been and the food service is top notch too (although I would agree that it's annoying to go to the bar to order something only to be told you have to go and sit back down and wait whilst they send someone over.) Quiz night is to be recommended and the live music it good too (although perhaps a little loud if you're too close). Definitely worth a visit.
Dave - 21 May 2004 15:37 |
Too big and not sure if it is a restaurant or a pub. Much better pubs nearby.
matt - 1 May 2004 20:31 |
I'm really sorry to hear that the gorgeous Venezuelan girl, Andreina is leaving for pastures new. We will all miss her, she's hilarious. Still no better place to drink in Twickenham or Richmond than The St Margarets Tavern.
anonymous - 26 Apr 2004 18:42 |
I like it. Something quite 70's and hotel bar about the feel of it. Very chilled and spread out, plenty of room. A steady hum of relaxed conversation. This is a chilled and happy pub. Staff enjoy working there which is cool to see for a change. Behind every good bar there's usually a good manager and Oisin seems to have fun with his staff and seems to manage them well. A hands on guv who comes and has a drink with you. It's the first large good pub for the St Margarets and Twickenham area, where a range of drinker types from hardened tradesmen to middle class lightweights seem to move about without any hassle. Quite a few of the old Turks Head customers are regulars. And what can I say about the music manager ....James....the party happy-cloud follows him wherever he goes.
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Top of the range pub. Service is fantastic. Two idiot friends have caused scenes with the bar staff their on seperate occasions. The staff were nothing but courteous and eager to help. They would only accept payment for the food one of our party was unhappy with after we argued the case! Chef was also concerned and talked to us personally to try and please us! Get some of that Swaddled Beef down you.... hmmmmmmmmm.....
Satisfied Customer - 2 Apr 2004 14:38 |
I should dispel rumours that I am the Paul who expressed his disappointment at the level and quality of service. My experiences of the St Margaret's Tavern accord with most other postings in that I have no complaints about the surroundings and staff, all of whom I find to be friendly and accommodating. I am also very pleased that the ashtrays ARE regularly emptied and cleaned. Besides, if I wished to complain I would do so in person to the Management instead of making anonymous postings on the Internet. Paul Bantock, St Margaret's, Twickenham.
Paul Bantock - 2 Apr 2004 12:49 |
This pub is so worth the trip, rocking every night of the week.
Jennifer - 5 Mar 2004 09:22 |
Absolutely fantastic pub! The only one around that gets a crowd every night of the week.
Great staff & great atmosphere. The food is not to be missed. Would recommend it highly to everyone as it gets a great mix of people.
Ciaran - 24 Feb 2004 17:09 |
The service at St. Margarets is fantastic! The staff are friendly, welcoming and definitely on the ball. Not only do they know who's in line, they even know what I'm drinkin. the food is excellent. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting and the pub is clean and comfortable. I give this place a 10/10 and I'll definitely be back.
fionnuala - 23 Feb 2004 11:58 |
I came here to watch the England Scotland match yesterday and our group got brilliant service all day, which I think was amazing considering there were about 1000 people in the pub. It was our first time here and we will definately be back. Thanks to James and the other guys who looked after us. Dafyd.
Dafyd - 22 Feb 2004 09:36 |
I'm afraid I'm going to disagree with the majority here. The pub is OK; the service is appalling. When the bar staff are not ignoring customers by polishing ashtrays or talking among themselves, and deign to actually serve the punters, they have no idea who is next in line and serve at random and out of sequence. Totally unprofessional. Pity as it's only a couple of hundred yards from my front door but as it's a busy place they won't miss me or my little crowd.
Paul - 21 Feb 2004 18:57 |
I discovered this pub on this website"Beer in the evening.com"and was so impressed with the comments that I decieded to check the place out for myself !.
Following my visit to St Margarets Tavern I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the pub and the the friendliness and attentiveness of the staff,who went out-of-their-way to answer all of my questions about St Margarets Tavern,the only down points are the drinks are a little pricey and the absence of a jukebox,but nevertheless did enjoy my visit here !.
I hope to return again whenever I'm over in this area
again !.
Patrick A Banks. - 14 Feb 2004 20:58 |
Lovely bar since being done up. Large but still cosy and friendly. Will always hold a place in my heart as it was here that I saw England win the world cup last year. Great times.
Alex - 13 Feb 2004 15:13 |
great pub, gorgeous staff!!!!! heehee, amazing people, lovely food, fantastic atmosphere, need i say more?!!!!! best pub in ages! xxx
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Ok boozer, but service can be a bit slow.
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Real pub with good service. Unusual just for that reason.
Liz - 5 Feb 2004 22:01 |
We came down for lunch, 6 of us from work on the recommendation of The Evening Standard. Loved it, brilliant, staff and service were excellent. They could do with a bit more vegetarian food on the menu though. We ended up staying for the afternoon and got slaughtered on Old Speckled Hen.
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That comment is a load of rubbish from someone who is jealous, and there's no chance of an email there. The St Margarets has the best staff and service of any pub I've ever been to. The food is excellent and good value, beer and atmosphere is always brilliant. It is getting very busy weekend nights though.
anonymous - 5 Feb 2004 13:57 |
My email, Oisin@st-margarets-pub.com
Oisin - 29 Jan 2004 16:03 |
Oisin here, manager of St Margarets. Can anonymous please send me an email as I would like to deal personally with the issues you raised about our pub and the service you recieved on your visits. Thanks. O.
Oisin - 29 Jan 2004 16:02 |
the only times that i have been there i have been very dissapointed with the service. for a pub with so many staff u had to wait ages to be served. they were very impolite and there was no atmosphere in the place whatsoever. considering the amount of money that has been spent on the place you think you would get better staff.
anonymous - 29 Jan 2004 14:32 |
Too big, too bright, too noisy and judging by the comments on here, too popular. Huge windows add to the goldfish bowl effect and the seperate eating area resembles a Harvester. It's good but its not that good. One for the middle classes.
Good for: groups of people who elect one of their brethren as the 'designated (BMW/Mercedes) driver'.
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This pub has been nominated for Evening Standard pub of The Year, and it should win,it's always brilliant and the staff are excellent.
Bigslim - 29 Jan 2004 13:04 |
i had a complaint the other day, what pub is perfect but because they handled it perfectly theyre perfect in my eyes now
anon - 28 Jan 2004 21:20 |
found the service pretty good! are you mad, have you ever been to another pub?? answer me this what other pub does table service coz from where im standing every lady and man that has served me there has done everything to make me happy and im a very hard person to please.
emma - 28 Jan 2004 21:17 |
just brilliant, what more can i say?
daniel - 28 Jan 2004 21:15 |
it seems we've all been logged on to save the st.margarets from idiots that say its crap, they ARE just jelous david. its definatley #1. think about what it was like and now how many people rant and rave about how amazing it is.
caroline - 28 Jan 2004 21:13 |
scrap those stupid comments, everybody knows that this is going be the best pub, it never lets you down, everyone else is just jelous because they cant see there pub doing as well, keep on doing what your doing.
david - 28 Jan 2004 21:11 |
if you visit this pub, and then visit your local again you end up thinking, why doesnt every other pub have the same standard as this one? its 100% every time i go there, people need to take the example and incorporate it into their own pubs.
strut - 28 Jan 2004 21:08 |
Found the service pretty good. Loads of barstaff on at the weekends and all amazing fit women.
lampshade - 28 Jan 2004 13:13 |
Top pub, great food, service, drinks, staff and atmosphere. Who needs another pub in St Margarets?
The manager is always available for a chat but be warned don't get him talking about the pub you'll be there until next week, he is so keen on his job!
Ian - 28 Jan 2004 13:01 |
Had a terrible night there, staff to busy talking to serve, bad pint cold food. It's all wrong!
Bill - 28 Jan 2004 11:16 |
this pub is about versatility and how it manage differents likes and tastes in just one place.Every time that I go I found something different either the enviromment, peolpe music o service (they have staff from everywhere in the world, and all of them are nice!),which makes the place a constant good option to consider. If you do like the kind of places where the service is tacit and confident don't ask for reference about this place you must go there
A - 12 Jan 2004 21:42 |
Was at this place on xmas eve and must say it rocked!! Richmond was quiet must of been cos everyone was here. Great beers,staff and somthing different in the buffet good stuff! Cant wait for new year this is the place to be you cant ask for any more NO TICKETS at last somewhere not charging the earth to get in. Great job all round guys!!
Brian - 27 Dec 2003 22:31 |
This pub is trying to be all things to all men and I have to admit it is succeeding very well so far. The food is not expensive and excellent quality. They have 7 real ales and they all look OK. The staff are always smiling, maybe they are paid a bit more, the brewery can certainly afford it, the place is permanantly packed.
Noel - 27 Dec 2003 12:58 |
A friend of mine loves this pub and I can't work out why. It's all very nice but where's the character. Mind you, he reckons I go for pubs that smell of piss and old men so maybe you should listen to him instead.
Good for: People who like to go for a bit of nice food and a small drink. Lovely.
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There can't be a better pub in the world to watch England rugby. It was really full on Saturday but you didn't have to wait to get served AND they don't use plastic glasses. Cute barstaff too.
Mark Vickery - 26 Nov 2003 10:34 |
Went here to watch England win The Rugby World Cup as advised by The Evening Standard. Seems like the rest of London did as well, the pub was jammed. Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant! Band after the game, lots of Bollinger and a huge hangover Sunday was had by all our crew. Thanks to all the staff for a fantastic day.
May - 25 Nov 2003 09:50 |
considering its not a 'sports pub'
it has had a fantastic atmosphere for the last couple of weeks of rugby (even if the staff do look a little the worse for wear at that time of the morning!!)c u there for the final
rodders - 18 Nov 2003 09:21 |
Fit staff, good food and drinks. Always busy and friendly atmosphere.
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