The Clissold Arms

beccywiseman

9th June 2009

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We are in love with this pub/restaurant. The food is amazing. We will definitely be back!

curlynewf

A nice surprise 10th November 2008

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At first glance it's a typical English gastro refurb - chalkboard menu, dark wooden floors, leather couches - largely devoid of any character. But it's not completely run-of-the mill. It's enormous, for one - two gigantic rooms and (what looked to be) two additional outdoor spaces. Secondly, it sits all by its lonesome in the middle of Fortis Green, a mostly residential but busy road with not a lot on it apart from houses and an Indian restaurant. Thirdly, the staff are genuinely friendly and professional - no attitude. (And lastly, it's the site of the Kinks' first gig ever. There are even some pictures near mens’ toilets to prove it.)

We were in the candle lit room at the back - really cosy. We sampled a Chilean red and a Crianza as well as their Bloody Mary (which was pre-mixed and not very good, so I don't recommend). For mains we had the auborgine lasagna and the macaroni and cheese. The lasagna sat inside an auborgine rind shell with its layers separated by sliced sweet potato instead of pasta. Very tasty. The macaroni was a little on the runny side - too much sauce and not enough macaroni but the flavor was there. We ordered a side of chips too, but didn't realise they were fried in beef fat until the server told us so when he presented us with them. (In fairness, there is a note on the menu referring to 'drippings' but neither of us caught it).

I didn't expect to feel one way or the other about the place when I walked in, but I left liking it. The wine, food and atmosphere were all really pleasant. It might not warrant a special trip, but I'd recommend it to someone living nearby.

beccywiseman at 09/06/09

Oh I didn't know that about The Kinks. Nice bit of info :-)

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