The Commercial, Herne Hill – Review

Approaching The Commercial to the tune of the Herne Hill Station piano on a warm spring evening set a wonderful tone for what we were to find inside. Warm and friendly, with the gentle buzz of a popular local pub, the recent refurbishment has produced a comfortable yet stylish interior, ideal for a quick drink on the way home or a relaxed dinner. With an inviting menu and a good choice of craft beers, wines and high quality spirits, I’m sure you’ll have a fight on your hands for a prized seat in the beer garden on a pleasant summer evening.

To kick off, the bacon wrapped “Pig and Fig” terrine was both luxurious and delicately flavoured, matched well with a selection of chutneys. The asian style BBQ chicken wings were light, perfectly spiced and delicious. There are no shortage of chicken wings in London, and yet you would be lucky to find some to better these; they’re a real highlight.

A tasty cheddar and crisp smoked bacon topped British beef burger certainly didn’t disappoint. However the real star of the show was a chicken, leek and mushroom pot pie: the epitome of comfort food full of great flavours and well teamed with dauphinoise potato, that certainly deserves a mention.

Generously portioned, the starters and mains are a match for even the healthiest appetite, only the lure of a chocolate brownie as good as the rest of the meal convinced us to order dessert! Needless to say it didn’t disappoint, and the hazelnut ice cream was a perfect combination to finish a great meal. The regularly updated menu offered great value and high quality that will leave you wanting to return.

The Commercial is a great place for tasty, home from home, comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere, just make sure you bring your appetite! And, if you’re just popping in for a drink, do yourself a favour and grab some chicken wings to share, you won’t regret it.

The Commercial 212 Railton Road London SE24 0JT

Website: www.thecommercialhotelhernehill.co.uk

Written by Alex Keighley