Crown Inn, Portswood

The Crown Inn, one of the few remaining Southampton pubs I hadn't done by November 2016 because it's tucked away a bit.  Surprisingly busy for a hidden away residential area pub. Its near the university; the customers are very mixed, with locals, students, lecturers, and admin staff.

Four standard cask beers

Four standard cask beers on offer (HSB, London Pride, Landlord, Ringwood Bitter), and a small lunch menu. I had the lunch special, which consisted of two fish cakes dressed with some salad leaves for £5. It was tasty, and though I had expected a bit more food to accompany it, it does actually offer excellent value for money.

The lunch special

A solid and attractive pub which is clearly popular. It's a sort of timeless place - I can remember pubs like this from the 70s - back then they would offer a ploughman's lunch or scampi in a basket. I asked about children, but the barmaid didn't know if they were allowed, which suggests she's not seen any children there. Apparently they are allowed, but not particularly welcome - no special menus, etc.

Ambiance

Visited again January 2017 for lunch with Chrissie. She pointed out that it was an old fashioned place because all the chairs matched! Same four cask beers on offer. The HSB tasted flabby and near the end of its shelf life. We enjoyed our visit. The pub has character, and is welcoming. I, again, had the fish cakes. It's a good value and tasty lunch! 


Date: Jan 2017   Score: 6 


9 Highcrown Street 

SO17 1QE

Opens 11 to 11 (from 12 on Sundays)
Meals are at old fashioned hours - lunch time and evenings only.



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Portswood