The Crown & Sceptre, W14

Sorry, T.E.A. is Hogs Back, not Hopback. Obviously had Salisbury on my mind, Hopback & Downton breweries suggest that must be worth a visit. 22 February 2007 'Rugged cosmopolitan'? Glass, light weathered wood, mismatched seating & tables, eclectic mix? On my only previous visit both beers had just gone, but was impressed that barman dashed straight down to change them (as should be the case) but was in hurry so couldn't wait. I'm glad I went back yesterday; there seems to be an interest in beer that sits a little incongruously with the bar but that's good and the choice was Hopback TEA or 'Drum' bitter from Downton brewery in Wiltshire. 'Drum' (4.2%) was light, tasty & refreshing. Wine menu had some reasonable choices at £10-12 btl, sandwiches & bites £4/5, Tacos/Fajitas £6 on specials board. Harveys beer mats - so I guess they stock it on rotation. ... ps. reminded of fav joke of '06 : 'How do Mexicans keep warm?', 'They use chicken fajitas' boom boom!

A backstreet pub which provides welcome relief from the bustle of the nearby conference centres. There is a bank of seats along the outside from which smoke can drift unimpeded into the pub. Inside there are 3 large bar/dining room areas with an open-plan central grill and kitchen. There is also a cellar bar which doubles as a function room. There is a variety of trendy furniture including some rough-hewn wooden items which try unsuccessfully to create a Bohemian atmosphere. The barmaid was pleasant enough, but one look at the behaviour and attire of the chef was enough to put us off eating. Three ales on, two from Courage and Caledonian Edinburgh Castle, not well kept and less enjoyable than they should be. I can’t see my rushing back for their beers, and I wouldn’t want to eat here.