The Holly Bush, Hampstead

"I might have to say, I'm slightly disappointed after my experience here. I've heard so many good things about this place, and how the food was great. Unfortunately, I have disagree. The menu' looks very appealing, and the upstairs dining area was fabulous. I went there for dinner, and I got accommodated probably on the best table. Until here, everything was fine. When we ordered the first bottle of wine, we were never asked to try the wine first, and it got poured straight into my glass, not to mention the fact, it was poured first to me and not my partner. I understand it's a pub, but when you do spend £200 between two for dinner, I do expect the service to be a bit better. The starters: We ordered the crab ravioli, such a disappointment. Not cooked properly and most likely frozen. The inside, was cooked and warm, but the edges of the ravioli was hard. When I did question if the pasta was frozen, I was told by the waitress she wasn't really sure, probably not? Main Courses: We ordered the venison, which in my opinion was lovely, and perfectly cooked. Very small portion, that's why I was suggested to order an extra side. (The broccoli, extremely dry, with no flavour. Left them untouched) The other main course was the steak, which was a bit too chewy. Dessert: We had the pudding and the "apple" with custard ice cream, which was coconut. Both nothing exceptional. Of course, I did still pay for the full bill and for the service charge, but we haven't had the feeling form the staff wanting to make things right, as they did not seem that interested even if we weren't happy with the food. This is purely my opinion, but I wouldn't recommend to go there for the food, as you might be disappointed. Although, I highly suggest this place for drinks, beautiful location and a lovely vibe."

"Had a great Sunday roast here - beef and with extra gravy, of course. One of the other diners had the pork, which also looked and smelt good. Generous portions - most of us were not able to finish! It is a bit of a tight squeeze and especially if you come with dogs (as we did), it might be worth asking for a table with a bit more space (or in a corner)."

"This really is a busy pub if you wish to dine. Especially popular with the locals. There is so much history here and being listed as a Grade 2 building. You need to make bookings to avoid being turned away from their doors. Food is good and service reasonable. Food 8/10, ambience 8.5/10, service 8/10, value for money 8/10. Quite a hidden gem!"

"We had lunch after our tour of West Highgate Cemetery. The service was excellent. The hostess, Naomi, was very helpful. She even recommended some local sites to visit. The lemon sole was excellent. Unfortunately, the octopus starter was not. We ordered it because it was not on the menu and thought it would be fresh - it was tasty but a bit chewy. Not sure it if was the octopus itself or the way it was prepared. The lunch was also a tad expensive. Our lunch with a main, starter, and two glasses of wine was $138. Helpful Hint: Take time to explore the neighborhood and the nearby Hampstead Heath."

"Fantastic food, five stars service, very helpful and polite staff. I had stone bass and my friend ordered fish and chips which I ate some of it. Both were really fine dinning quality. The chef is a magician because I have never had a tasty, crispy and thin batter like this fish and chips despite being a big fish and chips eater and tried many fish and chips in the uk. I highly recommend this place and would definitely go again."