We discover new decor, new manager and a new chef at High Road pub

I love a bargain, let’s face it who doesn’t? Of course it’s only a proper bargain if you would have paid full price for whatever it is you’re getting for less.

My bargain of the week had to be dinner for two and a bottle of wine for which I paid a mere £20.

As with most great bargains, they’re found in least obvious places and this particular one was discovered in The Barley Mow on Chiswick High Road.

With a somewhat chequered history, it feels that The Barley Mow is now on the up again with a stylish new refurb, a new manager and a new chef.

Although local man John Paul (known as JP) is still bedding down in his new kitchen, he has already made changes to the pub’s menu keeping the traditional fare whilst adding a risotto and lasagna as a nod to his Italian wife.

We chose Cajun chicken served with green salad and chips and a steak with the same accompaniments. The plates were huge and full. Both the chicken and steak were good quality and tasty with the latter cooked precisely to order.

The chips, neither fries nor chunky, were a let down. “Work in progress” we were assured when we commented on them.

I think pub chips should be big and chunky, crispy on the outside and fluffy within covered in enough salt to get you into trouble with your mother. I shared these thoughts with JP so here’s hoping!

To drink with shared a bottle of Argento Chardonnay.

The bill was £20.

We’re going back to try the £6 Express Lunch (12-3pm Monday- Friday)

Emma Brophy

January 14, 2011