The Holly Bush, Hampstead

heard great things, and had been in for a quick drink a few weeks prior, so booked in advance for a sunday lunch. turned up early, had a few drinks in the great downstairs area - fantastic pub.

went up to get our booked table, had to wait a few minutes for it to be ready. fine. sat down, ordered, got given lovely bread/butter and a jug of water without asking - great. ordered our food when we finally got the attention of a member of staff, after around 15 minutes. waited for food. and waited. after finally getting the attention of a member of staff again we asked if there was a problem with the food, as we'd been waiting for a while... the answer? "It's Sunday." Yes, we know it's Sunday, thanks for that.

food finally arrived a full 1hr20mns after we sat down. Yorkshires were all cold, as if removed from packet/freezer and mildly heated. no gravy, despite being advertised. meat was alright. carrots undercooked. potatoes seemed like microwaved shop-bought variety. the cost? FIFTEEN POUNDS FIFTY.

Incredibly over-priced food, appalling service. due to the negligent, slow and snippy service we received, we left a �5 tip, rather than the 'optional' �11.00 service charge designated on the bill. as we left the upstairs dining room we were chased down the stairs by a member of staff who claimed we'd neglected to pay the full price, and who were openly rude when we politely explained our reasons for not paying the full 'optional' amount.

there are few places i'd actively discourage people from visiting for food, but this is one of them. for the money i don't think i've had a less pleasant dining experience.

23 Nov 2008 22:04