Bars & Pubs

An enduringly popular, rather déshabillé establishment, where visitors battle with a loyal local following to secure tables. Many drop by for just a pint and a pizza; there’s a list of 13 well-made options including a child’s version, and specials such as white pizza with summer truffles and mushrooms. There’s also a sizeable menu of bar snacks, including the likes of houmous and flatbread. The busy bar staff can be arrogant, but the electronic ordering system is typically efficient and the front-of-house people are friendly, doing their best to help amid the crowds. Draught beers on our visit included Jaipur IPA and Wells Bombardier. There are several wines by the glass, plus bloody marys and Pimm’s, but very little to satisfy non-drinkers. With prices on the blackboard menu around £7-£8 for starters, and £14.50-£16.50 for mains, the Lansdowne begs comparison with restaurants and doesn’t always deliver. We liked our grilled prawns with beetroot and orange salad, and creamy salmon rillettes with pickled cucumber, but both were let down by indigestibly wiry stems of rocket. Dessert options may include eton mess, plum and almond cake with greek yoghurt, or a plate of goat’s cheeses. There’s no background music, but you’ll still have to shout. Did we mention this place was popular?

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008