Earl Ferrers, Streatham  

We finally managed to get back to this one and were very pleasantly surprised. The recent makeover - it still smells of new paint - has put a very individual stamp on it, which is a good thing. From the striking black and gold exterior to the cream and blood red interior (classy, not tarty, honest) the refurb has been handled very well. It's not huge, with a large bar taking up a good chunk of the main room, but it doesn't feel cramped. And it's obviously striking a positive chord with the locals, judging by the number that were in when we visited last. The staff are friendly enough, and the management are trying really hard to make this a local community focal point, with activities ranging from live music to a knitting club, to film nights, a book club, regular quiz and best of all, Tuesday's curry night! The food's very good, if a bit fussy (the burger came with cheese and bacon and onion relish - as well as mayo taking it just that step too far) and you can expect to pay gastropub prices, which also isn't surprising in the current climate. They're obviously dedicated to decent local beer, sourced through the Society of Independent Brewers, with mostly local (read Greater London) real ales on the pumps. There's also a reasonable wine list which won't break the bank, either. While we don't often get to Streatham, this is a pub that's worth the trip.

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