The White Horse or "Sloney Pony" is widely held to be one of the best pubs in London and indeed when it comes to drinking it gets it all right. Whether you are sitting outside on a summers day listening to the braying Gemima's and Piers's or jostling at the bar in winter with the rugby or football crowd it is a treat. Lots of friendly staff behind the bar serving a huge array of beers, ciders and wine. I tend to go after Chelsea matches as it straightforward to get served even when busy, there is a nice atmosphere and it is an easy stagger away from Parsons Green station.
Now having said all that does the food live up to the drinking. Well it has to be said it does. I would say it is definitely a pub that does food rather than a converted restaurant with a bar attached. The food is pretty much gastro 101 but the kitchen is obviously well organised and the food coming out always looks and tastes nice. It is also pretty reasonable and quick. We went on Saturday for our West Stand crimbo meal and we all had fun. I think the turkey dinner slightly disappointing some (issue taken with under cooked sprouts) but I had toulouse sausages and mash which was lovely, a big tasty portion. When we asked for extra gravy and veg it wasn't a problem. What also helped was the prompt drinks service from our waiter. Who was helpful and friendly despite a large and reasonably rowdy group of lads.
It's perhaps not a destination place to eat but if you are at West London's best pub and you get peckish you won't be dissapointed by the food. It is definetly a place that wants you to leave happy with a firm intention to return. Well worth a visit.
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Overall rating
Food 7 | Service 9 | Atmosphere 9 | Value for money 8
I still go here regularly before and after Chelsea games, it is a great pub.