Nellie Gerkins, Maidstone

Owned by one of Maidstone’s better known Irish businessmen, and part of the MuMu nightclub complex. Interesting loquacious clientele. They prepare cocktails for bottomless brunches at Mumus, who prepare food for the pub. Have twice been refused food despite menus being on tables because the kitchen are too busy. But when you can get food it’s delicious. Drinks are not displayed on the beer pumps and I have no idea how to scan the codes on the wall, so drink Guinness like most of the rest in there. Odd occurrence today. The skinny chap in charge rushed around collecting empties including mine which wasn’t finished and rushed out next door. It was only a couple of sips, but a real Irish pub would not try and rush you like that. Can’t decide whether it’s worth persevering, but then I’m not their target market.

Faux-Irish bar beside the various Mu Mu venues under the same ownership next door. However, the separating alleyway saved this part from the devastating fire in July 2021, although the smell of burnt timber is still evident. The dark-wood interior and music at least attempts to create the right atmosphere in the afternoon (although it is open to 4 am at the weekend so goodness knows what it's like later...). No real ale of course, and I was probably spun a line about the 'house' pils (£4.20), with only the notionally Italian Angelo Poretti available from the other keg taps.

Official site of Nellie Gerkins - nelliegerkins.co.uk

Official site of Nellie Gerkins - nelliegerkins.co.uk

Facebook page of Nellie Gerkins - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Nellie Gerkins - www.facebook.com