Grape and Grain (ex Jack Beards at the Palace), Crystal Palace

Formerly a succession of mediocre pubs, followed by the truly terrible Jack Beards at the Palace, the renamed and refurbished Grape and Grain opened in April of 2009 with the idea to drag this beleaguered place kicking and screaming to the grown-up's table. The décor is best described as functional, sober and rather muted, but what vestiges of the old interior remained are still here, including some nice wood panelling. In addition, they can only be commended for their commitment to fulfilling the expectations inherent in their name; the wine list is competent enough, but there were no less than 8 ales were on during our visit, along with some more interesting lagers from around the world. Jazz makes and appearance on Sunday and WiFi will please those with who come along with laptop and a party of virtual pub friends. In fact, all the changes seem intent on having as little appeal as possible to the dregs of society who previously made this a no-go pub for all right thinking people. We hope the Grape and Grain is a success, as it's a solid pub which hasn't been this good in years.