The Provenance, Colliers Wood, SW19

This is one of the latest additions to the Antic chain, which seems to mushroom up all over the place, but I hope that this one doesn’t wither as easily. I am predisposed to be suspicious of pubs painted bright orange on the exterior, but inside this one’s everything I expect from an Antic pub. There are a few sofas around the place, but the vast majority of furnishings are the cheapest looking formica topped tables I have ever seen in a pub, combined with more cheap looking little chairs. I reckon you could get the lot for a tenner in a second hand shop. But that’s the trademark of this chain I guess, and it’s a charming pub nonetheless. There’s also the typically odd items of decor, such as ancient Bakalite telephones mounted on one of the walls, and a pile of old suitcases next to a fireplace. The pub consists of several interconnected areas - the main bar area as you enter contains the bar counter; a room leading off to the right ; a room at the back with tables laid for diners; a room to the left containing the sofas (reserved for Emma when I was in - but no sign of Emma); and yet another area a few stairs up at the back on the left. Sounds a bit of a labarynth, but it doesn't seem like one really. The ale selection is good, which is to be expected from Antic. There were five on, with three handpumps apparently unused, and none of the usual suspects present. I went for the excellent Clarence & Frederick's Best Bitter, and I was offered the choice of either a straight glass or mug. I didn't see a menu, but they clearly do food at approriate times. However, there was a tray of homemade sausage rolls on the counter for £1 a pop, in which I indulged. Just grab a tissue and help yourself - no problem for me, but there might be a hygiene issue for some in them sitting on the counter until they're sold. This pub is a valuable addition to the Tooting & Colliers Wood real ale scene, which needs all the help it can get. I will be in for another pint or two sometime.

Official site of Provenance - theprovenance.co.uk

Official site of Provenance - theprovenance.co.uk