The Latchmere — Restaurant in London

Ah, this pub—what an absolute masterpiece of British charm! The kind of place that effortlessly balances tradition and festive cheer, with garlands on the bannister, perfectly polished tables, and a television showing the muted drama of daytime news. It’s a venue that doesn’t just invite you in; it wraps you in a warm embrace of amber lighting and the promise of perfectly poured pints. The ambiance whispers of lively conversations, quiet contemplation, and memories waiting to be made. Truly, the pub deserves every accolade—it’s practically the standard against which all others should be judged.

But then there’s the group seated at the table—a gathering that feels less like a merry bunch of friends and more like a focus group convened to test the limits of social cohesion. Let’s start with Plaid Shirt. Now, I’m not saying he stole that fabric from a family enjoying a summer picnic in Hyde Park, but the evidence is damning. Somewhere out there, a couple is lamenting the loss of their cheerful gingham spread while he sits here, utterly unrepentant, transforming it into a shirt that somehow manages to be both bold and deeply questionable.

Next, we have Red Jumper, who seems to be auditioning for the role of “overenthusiastic Christmas uncle” with his gesticulations and constant movement. His energy is palpable—almost too palpable. You can’t help but think he’s moments away from either spilling a pint or launching into an unsolicited story about the time he “nearly” made it on a pub quiz team.

Denim Jacket appears contemplative, staring down at his pint like it owes him money. He’s the kind of guy who looks like he’s permanently rehearsing a monologue in his head, possibly about the existential weight of choosing between crisps and chips at the bar. Across from him is The Grinning Enigma—someone who seems far too pleased with himself, as though he’s just pulled off a prank none of the others have noticed yet. His smirk suggests a man who knows he’ll be the one with the last laugh, though it’s unclear at whose expense.

And then there’s the fellow with the shaved head, whose posture screams, “I could be anywhere else, and yet, here I am.” He leans forward with his hands clasped as though he’s mediating a conflict, yet the only conflict is why he’s bothering to stay engaged in this chaotic roundtable of mismatched energy.

All the while, the pub remains immaculate, a steady backdrop of perfection against the swirling tide of this odd crew. It’s a place that welcomes all—even these five, who somehow manage to make themselves the centre of attention without actually doing anything remarkable.

Five stars for the pub. As for the group? Let’s just say they’ve brought… character to the establishment, though I doubt the picnic blanket family...

I love this pub and I have been a regular for nearly 32 years and have seen so many changes for the better. I took my Mother and her friend out for lunch last Friday. Great welcoming male Aussie host with a goaty beard. He was attentive and gave us a VIP treatment. We had the Pre-Theatre Deal which is a bargain at £17 for 2 courses. Started off with the chicken and pork terrine with a wild salad and toast. Lovely chunky terrine and full of flavour. Main course was the Fish and Chips and 10 out of 10. I nearly fell off my chair when it arrived. The battered haddock was bigger then my hand!! Lovely fresh flaky haddock with triple cooked steak chips and all the condiments. Best fish and chips I have ever eaten. Unfortunately I could only eat half but my Mother and her friend polished off the rest! No food wastage for us! Our belly’s content with such amazing food and service. Our amazing Aussie Host twisted our arms in having the desert. We shared the Bonofee Pie. It was a massive portion and heavenly. I will definitely be coming back with the entire family. Great welcoming staff, brilliant selection of beers and wines and the food is out of this World. They do a 33% Discount if you sign up with them for Mon - Friday. Thank you so much to the Latchmere Staff for a great lunch afternoon and see you soon. To the Aussie Barman with the goaty beard, my Mother saus you rock!!’ Thankyou for the great service and my compliments to all the...

Took a friend as a birthday treat. Place was pretty empty which wasn't an issue. We were attended to quite quickly which was nice. Unfortunately the food was a serious let down. I tried the duck parfait which was just about OK. I ordered the hake with sweet potato fries & pea puree, my friend ordered the steak. The fish batter was soooo oily I had to blot it with two serviettes! The sweet potato fries were lukewarm, the tartare sauce looked old or like it had been exposed for ages (it was dark on top so i didn't take the chance of trying it!) & my friend's fries were hard. The pea puree tasted like the peas had been taken out the bag & pureed without cooking them first. The best part of the meal was the drinks! A total waste of what it cost but I don't begrudge my friend & treating her.

Spent the rest of the day in agony as my belly doesn't like oil so not only was it too much, it was probably also old. The lady said she hopes to see us again but that won't happen. I can get much better value for money from the worst chippy in my own area! I definitely won't be going back there & unfortunately wouldn't...