Stockpot

We have been going to the Stockpots for more than 30 years and one of us even worked at the Panton Street branch in the late 50s, early 60s! Since this has been taken over by new management and staff, it has lost its atmosphere and is often very quiet (unheard of a few years ago). They don't even have the upstairs open anymore, which used to be buzzing a few years ago. They also have the annoying habit of putting 'reserved' signs on most of the large tables at the back and the side tables, even though (when we've been there) nobody materialises. Time and time again we've seen people be told they cannot sit at a small side table for two/three and told to sit in the middle (less attractive) tables and then they leave because they can't sit where they want to! It's better to keep the customers you've got than 'reserve' tables for customers that never materialise. Also the waitress we've had a few times can't seem to bring herself to smile or say 'good evening'. The only 'real' stockpot left is by the Prince Edward Theatre in Old Compton Street. Great busy atmosphere. Watch out, Panton Street, you could lose all your customers in time....

The food is basic, taste, filling and most importantly cheap (though if the prices creep up much more then it'll be pricing its self out of the retro market!) As far as I can tell it's menu is modelled on school dinners, and most people who eat have their own personal favourite dish (Spaghetti Bolognese, Fish Cakes, Liver and bacon for example) and most will give change for £6. There also the timeless puddings such as Jelly and cream or treacle sponge). Stockpot will never win any awards and nor should it, but taken in context as a cheap feed with good company you really could do a lot worse than this pleasantly aged institution!