THE BRIDGE TAVERN - 54 East Street, Old Portsmouth

We thought it time we explored the pubs on offer in Portsmouth, so after a bit of research, Dad decided we were to visit The Bridge Tavern in old Portsmouth. A decision nudged to fruition by the glorious weather. The pub is situated on the water's edge and has plenty of outside tables to take advantage of the view.

As I've mentioned before, it seems pubs by the sea are finally making the most of the produce on their doorstep. As with the last few seaside pubs we've visited, The Bridge Tavern's menu is heavy on the fish. There are of course other non fish based offerings so don't be put off if you're not a fan of our legless friends.

The interior of the pub seemed well attired and the staff welcoming, but we didn't spend much time in the building. We ordered drinks, grabbed a menu and headed for the outside. A quick perusal was enough to see we had another goldilocks menu on our hands. Not too big and not too small. I have noticed a definite trend of food pubs moving in the right direction of late. Fresh produce, homemade food and a goldilocks menu are all key ingredients when running a successful pub. We are living in good times as far as pubs are concerned, as long as you go to the right ones, that's where we come in.

I ordered the fish pie and Dad went for brazed ham hock. After just the right amount of time had passed, our food appeared. We could tell immediately that we had struck gold, especially where my Dad was concerned. After a few mouthfuls he was getting very excited, in fact I have never seen him so enamoured by a plate of food. My fish pie was also very good. We were lucky enough to bump in to the chef outside whilst he was preparing a hog roast for the evening. He was happy to explain how he cooked the ham and equally happy to hear how much my Dad enjoyed it.

If you're ever in the Portsmouth area, especially on a sunny day, be sure to head for The Bridge Tavern, you won't be disappointed, we certainly weren't. In fact we were so impressed it's going straight in to our top pub list, 'ows about that then. 

Atmosphere   9

Service         9

Food            10

Value           8

Verdict        5*