The Duke Of York, Chiswick

Popped back in on a return visit to Chiswick last weekend. Very bad move. Despite being beside an estate with a dodgy reputation, from the outside this is a pretty like place. Inside was another matter. The staff were unfriendly to the point of being almost angry (though they didn't seem to possess enough energy for that) and the whole place reeks of neglect. A shame, as it could be a nice pub; maybe it needs to be lifted up and moved further up the street!

4 Jul 2009 16:23

The George and Devonshire, Chiswick

At last this pub has sorted itself out! I used to work at Lamb House and we'd occasionally go here for lunch but the staff were so unfriendly and they were forever running out of beer, so it was no surprise I used to go past and see the place half empty. The food was awful too. I went back last weekend when we were having a stroll down the river and it was packed. A really happy atmosphere, and, as someone else on here commented, some very sharp musical choices playing. There's also now a retro games corner, and it's not your usual tatty old Scrabble and such like, but genuine collector's items! There's a very funny and interesting guide to their history on the bar too. But best of all is the Summer Menu which makes this the only place in Chiswick that does traditional British food at a sensible price. It's obviously decided to resist the gastro route but go for cheerful honest grub. I had the Welsh Rarebit which was scrumptuous (apparently made with a dash of Guinness) and my wife had a Quiche Lorraine she raved about. The beers are first class, and the manager was very friendly, especially, since he and one other barmaid were running a large function at the same time as serving lunch without appearing remotely stressed! He also recommended to us Fullers Discovery with a lemonade top and I'm now hooked on the stuff. Definitely going back.

4 Jul 2009 16:16