The Elephant in the Room, Goring by Sea, Worthing

A slight departure from Worthing's micropub scene, although on first glance, you might think this shop conversion was part of the same trend until you realise that cask ale is not available here. The pub is set in the same row of shops as the more traditional Georgi Fin micropub, making it a double header option for anyone who has made the effort to get all the way out here. I'm not too sure what this place was aiming for exactly, but judging by their Sunday evening clientele, they're going for more of a female friendly venue than your typical ale swigging micropub, so there was quite an inclusive feel to the place as a result. It's a parquet floored single room with a plain painted right-hand wall and some very busy floral wallpaper to the left. Comfy banquettes run down both sides of the room with loads of low stools in support and the servery is in right rear corner and has a plain counter with some elephant head coat hooks and a basic mirrored bar back with the keg taps to one side. Mirrors and blackboards are the only decorative wall features and there are a couple of potted plants here and there, but otherwise the place is a bit low on decor. Velvet curtains lead you through to the corridor that takes you to the toilets and an indie rock soundtrack was playing quietly in the background throughout my stay. With no cask ale, I had low hopes for the keg range, so was surprised to see three Cloak and Dagger beers alongside a couple of mainstream options. I tried the Komodo Bozo for £6.50 a pint, which was a modest brew served to me by a very friendly barmaid who seemed happy to chat to whoever came through the door. I only stopped in here because I had a bit of time to kill before my train home, but I'm glad I did, as I thought it was a well thought out bar with interesting keg beer options, smart furnishings and all round good vibes. I like that they've tried to do something different with the micropub format and although I'm not really the target audience, I nevertheless felt very welcome and comfortable here. Date of visit - 24th March 2024