The Princess of Wales, Blackheath

I visited on Sunday evening with friends. While the pub was busy, it seemed seriously understaffed. There were glasses everywhere, service took ages and the staff all seemed exhausted.

4 of us ordered food, which turned up in the reverse order, slightly cold, missing elements of the meal on the menu (no cranberry sauce or salad) and not that tasty. When one of the party spoke to the bar staff about it we were offered �2 a head back, which seemed a bit of a joke really. In the end we were given a round of drinks, but the poor guy dealing with us was obviously taking the heat for a chef who could remain hidden in the kitchen.

I also ordered a Pimms when I arrived which cost �5.54, but when I ordered a Pimms and lime & soda later in the evening it was �5.40.

The pub is nice to look at, has a great location, good range of drinks and friendly atmosphere, but is let down by what I would assume is the management. Some of the party had been before and had a better time, but I wasn't impressed and I would be reluctant to give it a second chance.

21 Apr 2009 15:31