To an extent, pubs in High Streets are always likely to thrive – especially at this time of year – because of the high footfall.
But if the place is a rotter then they quickly pick up a reputation that is virtually impossible to shake and struggle regardless of how many people are nearby.
I can’t imagine there are any such worries at The Partridge, particularly since its recent refurb, where business is deservedly booming.
Having approached the bar, this is literally the first thing I heard between a local (who clearly hadn’t been in for a while) and, I presume, the landlady.
“How are you?”
“Been busy.”
“Do you think it's just Christmas?”
“Dont think so, it's gone off like a rocket. It’s been going so well. I haven’t even had time to do my hair.”
It told me virtually everything I needed to know about The Partridge: nice locals, friendly landlady, doing well since its facelift and even an insight into her beauty regime.
Housed in a grand old bank, it is architecturally fortunate – it is bold and imposing with high ceilings inside. The decor doesn’t scrimp in maximising the grandeur either, which makes for a very nice place to spend your break from the shops.
There was big screen football but really all I noticed was happy, friendly looking (largely older) folk chatting away - not a hostile face or chav in sight.
There’s a large range of beers at the bar, though admittedly virtually all Fullers.
Now here’s where the high watermark begins to recede. The surroundings may be a cut above and the crowd refined but that is reflected in the price - £4.50 for a pint of the Fullers Frontier lager.
Choosing something to eat was tricky too. I wanted something simple but the menu was a minefield of the needlessly complicated. The sausages came with celeriac mash, the pie with white bean and onion ragout.
What’s wrong with plain old mashed potato?
After a lot of soul searching, I chose black pudding and bacon chicken breast with neeps, tatties and a whiskey sauce (£9.75).
It did sound a bit fussed about but I’m here to tell you that it was sensational.
The Partridge, High Street, Bromley
How it rated:
Decor ***** Simply gorgeous
Atmosphere **** Friendly
Staff ***** Down to earth and nice
Drink *** Lots of variety but virtually all Fullers
Price ** Not cheap
Food *** Great food but too mucked around?
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