So many places get Christmas wrong. Whether it’s putting up a tree in August or gaudy lights or outrageously loud 70s Christmas tunes.
The deliciously named Jam Circus in Brockley Road gets Christmas just right, but that’s probably because they get most things just right.
This pub’s concession to Christmas fits the rest of its vintage shabby chic decor.
There are strings with dried orange and Christmas fruits which are fragrant as well as pretty in a homemade way, lines of cards and demur fairy lights. And a very fetching tree.
Of the permanent fixtures, it is all relaxed and comfortable.
There’s a kind of saloon with candlelit tables, elevated restaurant-style seating and, around the corner, a kind of old-fashioned sitting room.
It’s dimly lit with mini vintage lampshades and calm maroon walls adorned with old-style circus posters.
Everything is either faded or a bit worn, so it feels like a bit of a time warp.
It’s all very comfortable and dare I say romantic.
It’s the sort of pub you could definitely bring a date.
The fact that lots of the tables were reserved must have been a good sign for the food, I thought.
And so it proved. The menu was not extensive but was entirely appetising.
My driver and I shared a lamb tagine, which was wonderfully flavoursome.
The bar served at least half a dozen ales, including the local Gipsy Hill brewery’s Beatnik.
Prices weren’t ridiculous either, with Adnams Lighthouse costing £2.80.
Beware the pastries, though. Picking up an admittedly amazing-looking mince pie will set you back a further £2. Ouch.
On a final winter’s note, Jam Circus serves one of the best hot chocolates you will ever taste – thick, rich and loaded with marshmallows on top.
Jam Circus, Brockley Road, Brockley
How it rated:
Decor ***** Vintage chic
Atmosphere **** Gentle muzak and friendly people
Staff *** Pleasant but a bit ditzy
Drink ***** Great selection
Food **** A good feed
Price **** £2.80 a pint? I’ll take that.
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