The Queen Adelaide (Bar)

Top 10 things we learnt about the Queen Adelaide pub:

1) It’s far removed from anything approaching civilisation, and deeply ensconced in residential Putney. Expect a hefty commute to and from its imposing white façade, unless you live in Putney.

2) While the setting may not be spectacular, the venue certainly looks the part. Its vast interior is mighty impressive, starting with the open-plan main bar with its large windows and comfy sofas.

3) Moving on, we find several more relaxed, intimate drinking and casual dining areas with thoughtful decorations, and a bustling, open-front kitchen.

4) The dining room is situated towards the back of the venue - its conservatory-style windows, high ceiling, stately tables and stone floor call to mind the most luxurious stable you’ll ever eat in. Nice crockery on display too.

5) The outdoor patio is sizeable, well-lit and adequately sheltered, commanding spectacular views of the nearby railway line. All glibness aside, it is very pretty.

6) The food is consistently great and a little surprising, from the Adelaide’s tapas style entrees to hefty, traditional main courses including pan-roasted hake, dressed Brixham crab, sirloin steak and even a “posh chicken Kiev”.

7) The menu is backed up by an excellent wine list, as well as a strong selection of ales, craft beers and other treats from behind the bar.

8) Of particular note are the blackboards dotted around the venue displaying the rules of rugby. For this is truly a sports pub of the highest calibre – no ubiquitous, blaring Sky Sports coverage, just a deeply ingrained love of the game that is apparent down to the smallest detail. An ideal pub for the Six Nations rugby, one suspects.

9) The weekly pub quiz on Wednesdays is a great source of camaraderie, although it can be an aural nuisance for diners seeking privacy next door. Conflicting sources of music can lead to distracting sonic dissonance during a meal as well - a minor quibble, though.

10) Otherwise the Queen Adelaide is a great place for work and play, meet-ups and casual dining. It is squarely aimed at the comfortable, well-off South-east London demographic - with kiddy chairs, real ales and Sunday supplements in plentiful supply – but youngsters are welcome too....read more