The Old White Swan, York

Nice enough pub, just don't order the steak. Popped in here a few times during my recent trip to York. Really nice interior with old beams on the ceiling. Food was great, and so were the staff. However on one evening I ordered a medium rare sirloin steak. For some reason it was tough and chewy. I notice from another review someone else had this problem too, so it seems it must be a regular occurrence.

27 Sep 2011 13:01

The Blackfriar, Blackfriars

Might be ok, if they get some staff who actually know what they are doing.

Went in, ordered steak and a beer. For some reason the barman decided to read out every single degree of cooking option available instead of just asking how I'd like it done, which I thought was a little odd. He took my money then started doing other things...without pulling my pint. After a minute or so I realised he must have forgotten (short memory?) so I reminded him, and he promptly pulled one for me. The real fun came when I tried to order dessert. I went up to him and said these exact words "Can I have the Eton Mess, please?" First off he didn't seem to know what I was talking about, then when I did get him to understand without saying a word he started running about all over the pub and into the kitchen. Five minute later he comes back to me and tells me I didn't order an Eton Mess. WTF? I know that. I'm trying to order it! I kept telling him this but he didn't seem to get it. I was on the verge of just telling him to forget it. When I eventually got through to him he took my money and no apology was offered. I should state that I am from London and I don't have a hard to understand accent. I left pretty swiftly once I'd finished my dessert. I won't be heading back. I think I'll stick with the nearby Edgar Wallace whose service and food are always excellent.

25 Aug 2011 22:40

Rutland Arms, Hammersmith

Visited this pub today during a walk along the Thames from Putney to Barnes Bridge and back. Service was excellent. I wanted to sit outside but didn't notice the tables had numbers prior to going to the bar to place my order. This wasn't a problem. Food wasn't gourmet, just standard pub grub, which is what I'm looking for in a pub. Nice pint of Doom Bar too.

8 Feb 2011 22:37