Westbourne Grove almost has too many options if you are in the market for a good pub. The consistent Metropolitan draws in large numbers and is a great option for those after a more rambunctious experience.

The Venue
The Metropolitan is mere steps away from Westbourne Park tube station, and is located on the right side of the West Way. From initial appearances it looks to be a traditional old man pub; however, this impression soon dissipates once you enter the building.

Featuring a cosy wooden interior and a prominent bar, the main area is big enough to handle a sizeable crowd. The tall bar stools are a welcome addition for weary legs, although you will be lucky to make yourself at home on one of these. The pub also features a small dining area upstairs, which can be booked. During the summer months, the crowd inevitably spills out onto the pavement outside and across the beer garden.

The Atmosphere
The Metropolitan is without a doubt a pub for hedonists, particularly on weekends when it becomes flirtatious and fun-loving. The bouncers are on the ball though with a strict policy against troublemakers. It gets so busy on a Friday and Saturday night that it’s advisable to get in early and lay claim to a particular spot. The bar staff are extraordinarily friendly and genuine, obviously a fairly rare combination in this trendy part of town where a smiling attitude is ostensibly viewed with contempt.

The music at the Metropolitan rarely dominates proceedings. DJs often play out tunes but they merely add to the atmosphere rather than overrunning proceedings. That said, on Sunday nights the DJ dominates.

The Food
Somewhat surprisingly, the food here is rather good. The menu features a range of reasonably priced starters and snacks, including Cajun wedges, Japanese breaded prawns and calamari rings. The wedges are particularly tasty. There is also quite a range of mains, including steak and ale pie, chargrilled chicken breast and a pub special burger.

The burger is one of the wisest choices, especially if you need something to soak up some alcohol. Otherwise, the beer battered haddock and chips are strongly recommended - the haddock is crunchy on the outside but soft in the middle. The barbecue out in the beer garden in the summer makes the pub an enticing option.

The Drink
There’s a fairly standard range of tap beers but the prices are very reasonable. Pints start at just a nudge above £3, with San Miguel being the best pick. Alternatively, you can get your hands on a range of bottled beers, with Corona being your best bet if you are into light beer.

The Last Word
The Metropolitan is neither too trendy nor trashy. The somewhat mixed crowd is there to have fun in a stylish manner and the pub continues to be a good option for a fun night out in West London or as a stepping stone on the way to a club.

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