This pub was chosen for inclusion editorially by Londonist.
To jazz fans, the Bull's Head is a legendary venue up there with Ronnie Scott's. Since the 1950s, it's played host to many legends from the genre and beyond, including PP Arnold, Jeff Beck, Gary Moore, Mick Jagger and regular Humphrey Lyttleton. The pub recently changed hands to become part of the Geronimo chain, but has vowed to keep the jazz thing going. So far, so good, with live music every night of the week in the Jazz Room annexe.
Otherwise, the pub looks much like other Geronimo venues, with multicoloured upholstery, grey-green walls and an emphasis on good food. Sitting in the rear dining room, we chomped into a baked aubergine that was packed to the gunwales with flavour, and a superior fishcake the size of an engorged trumpet mute. Service was exemplary. There's no escaping the jazz, though. It's pumped into every room, including the lavs.
The main bar area is a bit of a looker, with a sturdy wooden bar taking centre stage. Brightly painted side rooms contain cosy sofas, heavily encushioned, and a small library of travel literature. The wine list is quite staggering for a pub, but then this is well-heeled Barnes where a two-bed terrace will set you back a cool million. The locals demand more than a glass of Blue Nun. Ale choice is reasonable, if not exceptional.
On Facebook. On Twitter as @BullsHeadLive.
