146-148 Putney High Street,
Putney,
London,
SW15 1RR
(020) 8785 3131
The ViewLondon Review
Location, location, location. Putney’s Slug and Lettuce proves it really is everything.
The Venue
Located a short walk from the river, literally opposite the train station on Putney High Street, this branch of Slug and Lettuce proves the importance of a good location. Nearly always busy, it makes the most of its position with a bold, glass frontage and decent-sized space that packs as many punters in as possible without it getting too uncomfortable. Perhaps more pub like than some of the venues in the chain, this Slug and Lettuce has a simple layout with blackboards strewn across the walls, simple round wooden tables nestled in next to each other, a basic wooden bar and rather dull white and cream walls. It’s not particularly exciting but then it’s not trying to be.
The Atmosphere
In the summer, the regular flow of people stopping by on their way to the river ensures it’s always busy. The rest of the year, its location by the train station and well known name ensures that footfall never falters. Service can break down somewhat during peak times as glasses and plates pile up on tables and the wait to be served increases significantly. Still, they do keep smiling and don’t lose their tempers, which is more that can be said for similarly busy bars. It’s definitely a good place to come if you’re looking to enjoy a night on the town as the upbeat atmosphere certainly gets you in the mood.
The Food
Slug and Lettuce offers simple English pub grub and they do an excellent business in burgers. Not surprising given they’re priced between £5-£10 with chips and coleslaw on the side. Meat, chicken, fish, veggie. All the basis covered, then! The menu is well priced but the majority of punters come here to enjoy the drink in the evenings, especially as the weekend nears.
The Drink
There is a good selection of wine on offer at Slug and Lettuce, starting as low as £10 a bottle, which is very impressive for the area. However, it’s the cocktails that are the real winner here, particularly as the weekend draws near. Priced at just £6.25 they do a mean margarita – have it short and strong for a real alcohol kick that will almost knock you off your feet after just one. They also offer a very interesting Tokyo iced tea (apple vodka, melon liqueur, rum, gin and tequila, mixed with fresh lime juice and lemonade and served long over ice). Despite the huge amount of alcohol it contains, it is surprisingly refreshing with a fruity flavour that’s hard to put your finger on. It’s just a shame they offer old-fashioned examples of cocktails like Sex on the Beach (cue giggles!) with Smirnoff vodka and Archers peach schnapps over ice with orange juice and cranberry juice. It’s sickly, it’s overly sweet and it really should be banished from all bars. Right now.
The Last Word
Slug and Lettuce Putney certainly makes the most of its excellent position on the high street. It may not be the world’s best bar but it’s an easy, reasonable choice if you’re in the area.
Slug and Lettuce has been reviewed by 2 users