Salisbury Arms, Winchmore Hill  

The rollout of Mitchells and Butlers unbranded pub chain (you know - continental beers, loungey furnishings) has reached Winchmore Hill. Until recently a hotel lobby-styled Ember Inn pub (funnily enough another M&B chain) this new look hasn't fared as well as others we know. In places the 70s mishmash look works, but much of the space is now dark and dingy. We also wondered why the sea of beer pumps are placed at eye level, as standing in the wrong place at the bar now means a hard time getting served. If they think it looks continental and sophisticated they should visit some bars in Paris. All the ales were off, too. Despite being considerably more pricey than its previous incarnation, the food was no better - and in some ways actually worse. Despite all this, the Salisbury's new look is an overwhelming success - not surprising considering The Green has two stylistically similar (albeit better) pubs. As such, we'll keep out eye out if we notice Ember Inns pubs becoming an endangered species.

reviewed:
11/03/2007

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

outdoor seating

disabled facilities

ATM on premises

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