Fentiman Arms, Vauxhall  

Stepping out from Vauxhall station into the grim urban chaos which greets you, you'd never think you were only ten minutes or so walk from a smart gastropub. Though once you start passing the large Victorian houses of Fentiman Street you realise Geronimo Inns did their homework and that there are enough local takers for their brand of loungey pub-bars. Even the most hard-bitten fan of the traditional pub experience has to admit that this place does what it does effectively (you sense there's as much thought been put into the décor as into the food and drink). There was a lot of refurbishment going on when we were in last, but that didn't stop the staff being friendly and efficient. There were still real ales the hand pumps, and the food was decent enough. All-in-all it's a pretty relaxed place, even with the decorating and building work going on. The split-level beer garden is a handy feature for smokers and warmer days, even if the use of decking makes you wonder if Titchmarsh and Dimmock have just passed by. When it's done, it's going to be even better.

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