Tipped

Inspiring menu, avg. execution

October 20, 2007

During the autumn season, I can’t get enough of Hampstead Heath. The leaves are orange, the grass green and the sky blue. It’s epic this time of year. A walk thru Hampstead wouldn’t be 100% fulfilled without a stop at one the numerous charming country-like pubs. And that’s the Freemason Arms. About a stone’s throw from the Heath, it’s a good one to cosy into on a chilly day. It’s large with light wood, a fireplace and huge bar with many different beers on tap and a huge beer garden. We actually sat outside because the weather was so nice (albeit we were bundled up).

The menu is expansive and well thought out with everything from French onion soup to roasted chicken to lamb burger to crispy duck salad, and many more. Plus they offer specials daily. For a small fee (although I’m with the belief it should be included with your order) you get freshly baked bread served with balsamic vinegar and olive oil. The food was mediocre though. My duck salad was drenched in the plum sauce and the lamb burger was small with just a tiny spear of the Greek yogurt mint sauce. The chips looked great though. So your eyes and stomach go crazy when deciding what to order because everything sounds amazing, but don’t be fooled by the average execution.

This place is still worth another visit because of the atmosphere, cosiness and proximity to the park. And maybe the food will be slighly better next time too.

Tags: beer garden, cosy pub