Nightingale on the Green, E11

Official site of Nightingale on the Green - nightingaleonthegreen.co.uk

Official site of Nightingale on the Green - nightingaleonthegreen.co.uk

A very green pub this, and I’m not referring to its ecological credentials. The exterior is a surprisingly attractive mix of green and cream, and inside the banquettes, curtains and stools are all dark green, with the walls painted a light green. The carpet’s a dull red though. It’s got a central island bar, the furnishings are banquettes, stools and normal tables and chairs, and although there is a small room at the back with tables set for diners, this is by no means an upmarket foody pub. The menu is packed full of pub grub at very reasonable prices. Sandwiches are between £2.95 and £3.50, and the daily specials, such as steak and kidney (and ale) pie are all £6.95. The classic all day breakfast is £5.95. There are the usual array of TVs on the walls, but only one was on during my Wednesday lunchtime visit, apparently in order to play Magic Radio. The ale choice definitely needs a mention. There were five ales on – Courage Best; Ringwood Boondoggle; Jennings Cumberland; Nethergate Suffolk County; and Everard’s Tiger (£3.45 a pint). I had the Tiger, which was excellent. This is a very good ale selection for a pub that is somewhat off the beaten track. Although it’s not perfect (personally I could have done without the radio station being broadcast over the pub), this is an excellent, comfortable, clean and well cared for pub. Close to being a gem I would say. I would most certainly love to pay a return visit.