The Kings Head, Earls Court, SW5

This pub seems to be unchanged since the previous reviewer's visit. It was obviously once an old backstreet local, but there aren't many of them left in this part of the world. It's totally modernised inside with the usual mix of tall tables/tall stools, normal tables and chairs, and armchairs. All fairly comfortable if you like that kind of thing, but it struck me as a bit clinical. Being a Fuller's pub, it had on Oliver's Island, HSB, London Pride and London Beer Factory Chelsea Blond. The latter guest ale came as a pleasant surprise, but pints of the Chelsea Blond and Pride came to £9.10, so I guess one was £4.50 and the other £4.60. Top of the range prices even for this area. I didn't see a printed menu, but a blackboard on one of the walls advertised the chef's signature dishes - pan-fried salmon is £16; and duck breast with dauphinoise potatoes, red wine & cinnamon sauce is £17. That looks to be consistent with the beer prices. But having said all that it still strikes me as a pub instead of a restaurant pretending to be a pub. The Chelsea blond was in decent condition as well. I don't imagine that I would seek this one out for a re-visit, but I would have no objection to visiting again.

Official site of The Kings Head - www.kingsheadearlscourt.co.uk

Official site of The Kings Head - www.kingsheadearlscourt.co.uk

Backstreet upscale gastroboozer, which looks to have been the victim of an over-zealous refurb a few years ago. Staple shaped, with adjunct blue alcove. Wood panelling and crap art for sale. Quiz and music nights advertised. Decent selection on the pumps, Portobello Star & Porter, Hanlons Snowstorm (past its best) and London Beer co Chelsea Blonde (much better). Interesting little bolt-hole if in the area. Anyone know which king it is on the pub sign?