BITE user comments - razor
Comments by razor
The Park Tavern, Kingston Upon Thames
Despite some of the reviews here, I have always received a warm welcome and is a nice little friendly pub and always found Sue and the rest of the staff friendly and accomodating. Bound to get dogs in their as it is so close to the park and they even have dog biscuits behind the bar so you know it's going to be dog friendly.........Stop barking Monty!!!
23 Sep 2012 21:38
Heard it's back on the market for 2.6 mil or 120 grand per year rent....Not a lot of chance of either in its present state. A venture for another wetherspoon maybe?
23 Sep 2012 21:22
Pub has now got a sign outside saying that they have ceased trading and has been closed since May.
17 Jul 2011 11:11
Now back under the control of Greene King and mine hosts Barry and Kim are gradually bringing the place back to its former glory. Abbot ale, Ale fresco and GK IPA on pump along with a good range of lagers etc. An extensive range in the food menu and very reasonably priced with large portions and expert presentation. Well worth a visit.
4 Jun 2011 12:53
Jimboby1234............You say you have used the Gate for about 5 years, yet you are only 22 ?????
I guess under age drinking should be added to the list........Not doing to well are we.lol.
23 Feb 2011 17:09
Seems funny that the last two comments were made by folks that joined this site the same day as they posted them, and that both were made about the gate. What's on offer for positive feedback, 1 pint, or is it a massive 2 pints........So obvious, and proves the points that others have made.
23 Feb 2011 16:54
Nice that you have responded Susan, it would have been even nicer if you had addressed the issues that people have raised here instead of making the wild assumption that everyone who has given you a bad review must be a trouble maker that you have barred. I think these reviews are a true reflection, I have only tried your pub 4 or 5 times and have not found it to be a place where you could go for a quiet drink with the wife....it IS intimidating in there. Someone raised the issue of drug dealing, I know for a fact that some that have been caught dealing and taking drugs in my local pub are now using your pub, so it would be wise to check the loo's on a regular basis.
Excuses won't get you good reviews......cleaning out druggies and louts will.
31 Jan 2011 12:58
Closed again 13th Dec and re-opened 15th Dec. Apparently it is leased to a holding company by Greene King, shame they can't make up their mind who they want to run it, it ain't fair on the licensee or the regulars.
17 Dec 2010 17:08
Since most of the reviews here are on the bar staff, I don't feel out of place in adding one about the Polish girl in the kitchen. Young Katie has been running the Alexandra in Kingston for the last three months and has given it a proper home from home feel, she keeps the beer in top condition, cooks a Sunday roast that can only be described as perfect and still has time for a bit of banter with us regulars.....What else do you need from a pub?
13 Dec 2010 19:46
Indeed it has re-opened and is thankfully now once again, in the hands of someone who strives to give the customer a good experience as well as a good pint. Not so sure it has to compete with local pubs, seems to be something going on most weekends i.e. karaoke or a live band or a disco that caters for all tastes, so it is a little different from surrounding pubs. Good to see some of the old bar staff back behind the bar as well.
28 Nov 2010 16:52
Well! the door closed for the last time on this new venture...Well done James!!....I guess we will have to wait for a new "Mine host" once again.
Dan, Thomas and not forgetting Martin behind the scenes in the kitchen.....I wish you all the best for the future and would like to thank-you for your hospitality albeit shortlived.....Keep at that keyboard Dan...I'll buy one of your records instead of ripping it off the net......I owe you that much buddy!! Hehehe!!
I've upped my rating to 10 but it applies to the staff only.
26 Sep 2010 01:47
I am getting a little confused here...is James using two profiles? He answers in the "Canbury" review as "Jamesthelandlord" aged 41, yet he is supposedly answering here as "Artisticinfluence" aged 24???
Exactly who is it that is in charge of the Alexandra? At the very least, "Nutty1" will need to know who it is that he/she needs to find for that free pint.
7 Aug 2010 11:41
Prince of Wales Ham Hill Country Park, Stoke-Sub-Hamdon
Guest ales and ciders served from wooden barrels....and I wasn't driving!!! This place is my idea of heaven. Bonio's on the bar at 10p each for the countless dogs that run around the place (20 - 25 when I was there) What more needs to be said, people friendly, dog friendly and good beer.......Takes a lot of beating!!
4 Aug 2010 13:03
Nice to see that you are keeping the Alex as a traditional boozer James ( They are sadly disappearing at a fast rate ) and Kingston has more than its fair share of gastro pubs. Regarding change......ok, you've addressed both types of change, that of commercial viability and change of a personal desire as a licensee, for which I thank you.
But blimey!! the Alex as a "Moody Boozer"?? Well, I ain't no "Jack the lad", neither am I "Mr posh guy" but in all my years of having a drink at the Alex, I have seen no hint of agro, only a broad spectrum of folks from all walks who were there for one thing....A drink and a bit of banter. Yes, sure there was sometimes a bit of "Us and them" (Human nature I'm afraid...and you ain't gonna stop it) and every pub has got it!!
James, don't listen to here-say, it gives rise to unwarranted reputation, and by the mere fact that you are inviting people to sample your hospitality, that is now the Alex....you would not like to be subject to it either.......just a thought my friend, it could save a lot of advertising expenditure.
Wish you all the best in your new venture, and yes I will still have a tiddly in your establishment.
15 Jul 2010 18:45
Under new management and the influence of the Canbury Arms for obvious reasons. Everything that was Malcolm and Karen has been removed, including the staff who were always welcoming and friendly as well as being proficient at their job, a lot of the regulars are noticeable by their absence as well. I was told that it was going to be kept as a pub type pub by Malcolm, but have my doubts as a lot of "Canbury" influence is present in the form of the type of menu, prices and inexperienced staff who have developed the art of keeping you waiting even if you are the only customer.....oh! and not forgetting the sign outside which actually advertises the "Canbury".
The pub now seems to be attracting groups of women and children, ok, fine in the afternoon when you've picked them up from school, but letting them run riot in and out of the bar area will drive away custom, especially when they are still doing it at 11.00. pm. Most people go to a pub in the evening for a quiet chat and a bit of banter, not to be infuriated by kids running riot throughout the bar and garden, what are the parents thinking???? little Johnny or Jessica from primary school should be home and had their supper and be washed and ready for bed by 7.00.pm. NOT IN A PUB!!!
I know the new landlord visits this site, hopefully he will take this the way I intended as constructive criticism, rather than a moan for the sake of moaning. I appreciate he wants to put his stamp on the place, but too much too soon is not always a good move unless of course you are aiming at a new client�le.
26 Jun 2010 12:11
Hogsmill Tavern, Worcester Park
A definite improvement now it's part of the Toby chain, have been a few times since it re-opened and it has been packed out each time. Good food for a reasonable price, hence its popularity.
ps. arkaye, no need for apologies my friend, no offence taken....it was more a case of frustration that the intent of my post didn't come over.
20 Jun 2010 10:49
Have popped in on the way home from work on a few afternoons with a mate, were in our working clothes, steel toecaps etc.......but clean! Even so a lot of pubs don't like you dressed like that these days, on quite a few occasions we have received a warm welcome from a guy who I assume is the manager. It's enough to make me keep popping in for a swift couple of pints of Aspalls......and we don't live in our working gear, have also taken the missus when I'm in civvy's. Service can be slow, especially when the guy behind the bar has to make a few coffee's, why can't the waitresses do the coffee??
Over all, staff friendly, ideal setting next to the Thames, can't go wrong with the Aspalls......it does for me.
5 Jul 2009 12:30
Hogsmill Tavern, Worcester Park
Razor, You went there twice as a Christmas party of 30 and your steak was not to your liking, either time? Why didn't you tell the staff on the second time? MAKE SENSE.
I like the Leffe this pub serves.
5 Feb 2008 01:31
What on earth makes you think we didn't complain, and refuse to pay for those meals that weren't up to standard. What made you think we went back again after an iffy meal.....the first time was ok, but nothing special.
My friend, nothing will MAKE SENSE to you if you try and read what hasn't been written. The objective here is to give an honest opinion for the benefit of others, not to keep quiet about bad food or beer because you get a reduction in price.........Does that MAKE SENSE to you now.
22 Mar 2009 20:25
The King William IV, Mickleham
Have popped in for a couple of pints on two or three occasions. Decided to take the missus on Saturday and try their meals........." Pub grub " it ain't, if you fancy trying a real gourmet meal, look no further than here. The prices are a little steep for a pub........but worth every penny.
Despite the negative comments here, we found the staff really friendly and polite and very welcoming.
Verdict:- Superb meal, washed down with a superb nectar that is Stoford press cider.
20 Oct 2008 14:24
We had planned to go to the Kings Arms in Ockley but I punched the wrong postcode into the satnav, and we ended up here. What a charming little pub, low oak beam ceilings, stone floors, nice garden with a pond holding carp that I'd estimate at about 15 to 20 pounds.
Now for the serious stuff......Good selection of beers, although I had to settle for a swift half as I was driving. The menu consists of daily specials as well as fixed meals, we went for the mixed grill which consisted of Rump steak, Gammon steak, Sausage, Fried egg, Fried tomato, Mushrooms, Chips, Peas and salad. Couldn't sample the various sweets as we were too full.
This is a typical little country local that is becoming a rarity. If you plan to visit one of the chain pubs in the area for a meal and drink, give the Cricketers a try instead, I don't think you will go away disappointed.
10 Aug 2008 11:31
The Wych Elm, Kingston Upon Thames
Thanks Tolenon, have been back and as you say 'The Farters' appear to have gone. Keep em out Manny, they've lost you a lot of custom.
25 May 2008 14:41
The only thing that surprises me about this place is that they don't serve methylated spirit.....or is that a special for regulars only.
25 May 2008 14:17
Have only ever been here for leaving do's etc, but always had a good time. Struggle to get served when it is packed though.
25 May 2008 14:12
The Smith and Western, Boxhill
Reading the comments below, I must have gone on a good night. Staff were courteous and friendly and the rack of ribs I had were better than Tony Romas. I was a bit miffed about the half pint or two pint jug rule for the beer....and it was a tad expensive.
It's definitely geared up for youngsters, but this old fart would go again...at a push.
25 May 2008 14:01
The Druid's Head, Kingston Upon Thames
Dropped in for a couple of afternoons while in Kingston. Polite friendly bar staff, reasonable prices....What more do we need.
22 May 2008 13:30
Just been to this pub for the first and last time for a meal. The food was good, but after waiting for TWO HOURS and having complained after an hour and a half....The service is beyond a joke and totally unacceptable. The staff were rushed off their feet, they need to employ more....Who runs the place, Scrooge?
10 May 2008 23:44
Hogsmill Tavern, Worcester Park
Been twice for a xmas do, food cold on both occasions. Medium rare steak was ordered, turned up charred on the outside, and shoe leather on the inside.....won't be going back, if they can't look after a party of thirty....You ain't got no chance as a couple.
17 Jan 2008 20:05
The Chessington Oak, Chessington
Grub ok, cheap, but only small portions. Bar staff were excellent though, very friendly.
17 Jan 2008 13:00
2nd attempt to post...
Don't think they have a target clientele, apart from being a family pub, kids welcome, play area and lollies on the bar. Smokers also catered for, under cover as much as is allowed and adequately heated, but standing room only when busy, and yes I do mean the smoking area.
6 Jan 2008 12:46
Can I rephrase my last posting, I didn't mean that the Chinese guy turned his toes up....just moved on. If anyone knows where he is working, please post so I can get a decent Chinese meal.
31 Aug 2007 19:13
The Fisherman's Cot, Bickleigh
Stayed here again recently...nothing changed, must agree with sabu 1, the carvery is good but if you fancy anything else, try the Trout just down the road for good home cooked nosh.
31 Aug 2007 19:00
The Wych Elm, Kingston Upon Thames
Have to agree with the last two comments. Haven't been in there for five or six years now. On the odd few occasions I did give it a try the public bar was taken over by a group of yobs who thought it clever to belch and fart as loud as possible with the landlord looking on in awe. Save yourself the journey, sit in the loo with a can of Tennants super....the ambience is the same.
30 Aug 2007 22:32
I can assure you they were serving Chinese food at the start of 2007, but sadly the little Chinese guy moved on to different pastures....English fare now....but still nice.
30 Aug 2007 22:11
Stayed here for one night in August, room was nice, breakfast excellent. Have had a few evening meals here....cod as stated is nice, but I have had better from a 'Superfish', the steak was nice and tender and came with a nice sauce. It seems to attract a mixed bag of customers in the evenings, but then variety is the spice of life, so no problems there. The service was good and staff friendly but the beer garden had a bunch of youngsters ( male and female ) who were using colourful language ( no surprises there ) one of the lads who was too lazy to walk 20 yds to the toilet, urinated in the beer garden...great if anyone eats at that table the following day. Definitely needs a bit of staff presence in the garden in the evening....and in case he reads this...keep it in your pants son, or drink coke until you've grown up a bit more.
30 Aug 2007 21:54
They are now serving Chinese food ( Eat in or take away ) Excellent food and cheaper than a lot of places.
Well worth a visit.
18 Feb 2007 16:14
The Fisherman's Cot, Bickleigh
Second visit, what can I say, just as good as last month although somewhat quieter. This really is a good place to stay as it brings North and South Devon within easy reach if you're touring. "Mine Host" Warren is a nice friendly guy.....shame about his taste in bacon. Awe c'mon, get some unsmoked bacon, it's much better than that Kipper tasting smoked stuff.
ps. The missus say's thanks for the extra pillow.
15 Sep 2006 17:35
The Fisherman's Cot, Bickleigh
Stayed here recently, I was really impressed with the attitude of the staff, friendly and nothing was too much trouble and room was nice. It really is a nice setting, at it's best at first light, with the mist rising off the river as you lounge in the garden supping a room brewed tea or coffee. We're going back in September.
19 Aug 2006 18:35
Took an elderly disabled lady there for a meal, quick service, good food and when my friend wanted a biscuit with her coffee they got some for her from the flat upstairs. You'll struggle to get a better and more courteous service anywhere.
25 Apr 2004 18:39
The Wych Elm, Kingston Upon Thames
Just been here to try the new landlords Sunday lunch, food overpriced and disgusting and cold. Nice to see Pete still behind the bar, but eat there at your peril, we sent the food back twice....the second time we didn't want it back. Manny and Janet...you will be missed.
8 Jun 2014 16:05