The Green Dragon, Croydon

Easily one of the top three bars in central Croydon, if you want a range of decent music (ie not pumping house), live bands, pool, good beer and a good cross section of people of all ages. NOT a Hogshead any more and better for it. Esther has made real efforts to make this pub your local, with bands, pub quiz, friendly barstaff (some from her days at the Ship). She is really keen to get live music on and we got a Canadian friend of ours a gig there - really well supported, he said it was one of the best gigs he's ever done in the UK. Not your usual chain pub and well worth supporting.

29 Dec 2006 10:07

The Queens Head, Hammersmith

Pub cosy, intimately lit with candles. Welcoming smiles from all 3 barstaff, contrary to previous reports. Minor communication problem with shy Eastern European barmaid but more than compensated by pleasant smile and eye contact. All tables taken
at front (smoking) area but plenty of tables in rear (non-smoking) section. Unfortunately one bar staff smoking here but large enough area not to be a huge issue. Beer selection not fantastic but 3 reasonable draught beers including IPA, Wells Bombadier & Rosey Nosey seasonal ale. Menu looks excellent if a little pricey. Good choice with 5 good-looking veggie options. Many specials. Good wine selection, not all your usual Chardonnay/sauvignon standards. Poor selection of rose wine though. Very reasonable prices for a bottle. Low key background music (Xmas standards). Most of clientelle 30+ tonight (28 Dec. 6pm). After first drink finished same barmaid came over to offer table senice for a refill. Same price I think. Lovely service, genuine smile again!
Ate prawn avacado salad with bread followed by an excellent mushroom pie with carrots and green beans. Not over-cooked. Not huge portions but enough. No potatoes. Some confusion from bar staff as to whether Pie was on or off but resolved amicably enough. Overall a good pub for a chat with friends over a meal but not a pure drinkers pub. The foreign bar staff have some communication problems which might be interpreted as surly by some but I found them totally amenable and love the east european barmaid!

29 Dec 2006 09:53