Bars & Pubs

The name is a nod to its floral neighbour, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and this pub's position on the corner of Kew Green truly makes it a perfect place for a relaxing pint after a mooch around the gardens. The substantial space has cosy nooks - one with a fabulous double-sided fireplace - and raised areas that give the place a more intimate feel. The 'contemporary meets retro' interior is a mix of exposed brick walls hung with china plates, retro-1930s grape light fittings illuminating chocolatey-aubergine Anaglypta walls, and dark wood floors, tables and motley seating, while the outdoor space is as twinkly as a fairy grotto. There's a great selection of wines, with nine whites and reds, and a couple of rosés by the glass. On tap there's Birra Moretti, Aspall Suffolk Cyder, Adnams and Erdinger, while bottles include Anchor Steam, Baltika, Duvel, St Peter's Organic and RHS-inspired Gardener's Tipple. There are Gaggia coffees and leaf teas too. The food menu is impressive, including cumberland sausages, cod fillet or a pea, broad bean and spinach risotto. On Sundays there's a clutch of roasts, and decent jazz. In spite of some rather tremulous service on our visit, the Botanist on the Green is somewhere worth 'Kew'ing for.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9