Devonshire, Balham

RIP DOD I miss you.

16 Apr 2008 11:55

The Duke of Devonshire, Balham

I registered because though I may come to this site for ideas about where to go I don't feel strongly enough about anything to go through the rigmarole of registering.
After my visit to The Duke of Devonshire however I did feel strongly enough. I can't speak for the other reviewers but that's why I registered yesterday. You may find in the coming weeks that there are more. The refurb was so bad, it got even me off my arse to write my complaint/eulogy. The lovely pub that I drank in for ten years has gone.
I may be wrong and it will be a great success. But it will do so, sir, without my custom.

3 Mar 2008 15:38

The Grove, Balham

The food used to be good. New manager. Now it isn't. Also the music has been turned up too loud.

3 Mar 2008 09:29

The Duke of Devonshire, Balham

I agree with the previous review. My heart broke when I went in to see what they've done to my favourite pub. I stood there, mouth agape, and nearly cried. How could they ruin a lovely Victorian boozer with this terrible redesign. The staff now all have t-shirts emblazoned with the words "The Devonshire Crew" which just about sums it all up. How could the take down the old panelling and remove the mirrors and glass? Nothing fits anymore. I knew this would happen as soon as the refurb was mentioned.

And why change the name of the Duke of Debvonshire to The Devonshire?
a) It's unlucky to change the name (I shouldn't wonder if it falls down in two weeks, the structure weakened by the terrible kitchen.
b) The name they've changed it to is so close the original there seems little point.
c) Balham people have always called this pub the D.O.D. now what are they going to call it?

Whoever built this pub must be turning in his grave. If I was dead I would be too.
I doubt I shall go here ever again unless it is to show my friends how not to refurbish a pub.
*sobs*

3 Mar 2008 09:25