Here we are again, and a long time since my last post. I'm currently writing a fairly long piece that I will put up soon, but in the meantime I stumbled across an unexpected Haven. The Haven Arms, Ealing.
After the misses left me breakfast-less I went for a fry up...and while I was out, why not grab a quick pint!
A small amount of beer-app research later and I headed to the Haven Arms. What a little gem. Hidden down a small lane 5 mins from Ealing Broadway this classic boozer welcomed me on a chilly day with a roaring fire and friendly staff.
The beer selection wasn't amazing - Caledonian Deuchars and 80. I chose the 80 to start and paid £3.50 for it. It's ruby red, packed with crystal malt and quite big in the mouth. Not a mind blowing beer, but served very well.
There is Sky Sports News on without volume as well as a fruit machine and a pool table. These things often get the backs up of certain CAMRA types, but if the revenue of a fruit machine in the corner keeps a pub from shutting then arguing against is so subjective it's painful.
The decor is traditional with some nice quirks, it's very warm, clean and comfortable. This extends to the toilets which are clean and well maintained.
I'm the only person in at 1pm, but not for long. Regulars soon start coming in for food and drink. The food looks and smells great, and the menu is brilliant. Lobster, steak, poker and quiz nights are all on offer. I over heard the Landlord saying the only thing they buy in is the ice cream, and it certainly looks that way.
The landlord, who is running his first pub, takes time to talk to punters. The fact he bothers to do this (and in his socks) is brilliant and quite refreshing. His advice to book for their famous 100+ cover Sunday lunches was useful, I shall be booking my place!
Next up is Deuchars IPA. Served perfectly and tasting as it should.
The Haven Arms is, to me, what a pub should be. Local, friendly, inviting and with switched on owners who strive for a good atmosphere and offer good, well priced and locally sourced food. Without making it seem like they're doing you a favour somehow.
Despite the limited beer selection, this is a great pub well worth a visit. Besides, I'm not sure how they are tied, so perhaps they are stuck with Caledonian...but it's served well and very drinkable irrespectively.
If you're thinking of opening a pub, go to the Haven Arms and take note - this is where you want to be.
Their website is
http://www.thehavenarms.co.uk/
It's well worth a look, and offers some interesting info on the history of the pub...and to book your Sunday lunch!
Cheers,
Josh Walker
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