Sampson Lloyd, Smethwick

This is a former Spoons' place. It occupies a few buildings on the corner of a major junction. These buildings were erected in the early 20th century, replacing a once rural house, called 'The Elms'. The main part of the place is a former bank, built in rococo style and now looking very tired. The stone mock-Tudor building houses the Bank Steakhouse, and there is the Edwardian red-brick building the other side. The interior is an open room, with a side area for the steakhouse. The decor is coffee all over, with some dogtooth beams - and needs a little refreshing, as the worn carpet shows. A few bank pictures and an old Spoons info board are on the walls - with some bistro art in the dining area. An old TV had the footy on and there was a jukebox, though no music. The service was functional and the clientele mainly mature, many looking oblivious to the fact that it was no longer as Spoons, as the prices remained low. Beer; no real ale, but a good array of keg taps - including M&B MILD for £1.50ish, which was decent enough. Nothing for the real ale fan.

Used to be Lloyds Bank so guess what it is now? That's right, it's a Weatherspoons. Need I say more? No parking as its on an unbelievable busy 5 road junction.