I didn't think it was fair to overly criticise the place on the basis of my experience on the re-opening night before it had a chance to try to prove itself, but my opinion of the food was pretty similar to leenewman's. If I'd been paying for it, I would have wanted my money back.
The place does look very slick- but I agree that it's too corporate looking.
I might look in for the quiz one night, but I won't be eating there again unless something radical changes.
Dulwich Wood House
I have had two very different experiences of the Dulwich Woodhouse since it has reopened. The first I had a Sunday lunch which was very good.
However, when I went in a few weeks ago with a friend I had the fish and chips which were not good at all. We were constantly being interrupted by the waitress who obviously had too much training in 'customer care', asking us if we were ok, how was the meal ect. I do like an attentive waiter/waitress service but this was just ridiculous.
I do miss the old Dulwich Woodhouse layout with the bar at the front with all the locals gathered around nattering and the restaurant bit at the back if you want to eat. There seems to be nowhere to sit if you just want to have a beer or glass of wine, apart from in the direct line of the constantly opening, newly located, entrance door with people wandering in looking a bit lost, usually with a buggy and a couple of kids in tow. Not really my idea of a peaceful drink in the local.
However I do appreciate that the Management have made a business decision to make the most of the restaurant - presumably this is where the money is made now. I had the feeling that it was all a bit chaotic in there though and although this wont stop me going in, I feel slightly disappointed with the change. It may be better in the summer when the families will sit outside with the children.
However, when I went in a few weeks ago with a friend I had the fish and chips which were not good at all. We were constantly being interrupted by the waitress who obviously had too much training in 'customer care', asking us if we were ok, how was the meal ect. I do like an attentive waiter/waitress service but this was just ridiculous.
I do miss the old Dulwich Woodhouse layout with the bar at the front with all the locals gathered around nattering and the restaurant bit at the back if you want to eat. There seems to be nowhere to sit if you just want to have a beer or glass of wine, apart from in the direct line of the constantly opening, newly located, entrance door with people wandering in looking a bit lost, usually with a buggy and a couple of kids in tow. Not really my idea of a peaceful drink in the local.
However I do appreciate that the Management have made a business decision to make the most of the restaurant - presumably this is where the money is made now. I had the feeling that it was all a bit chaotic in there though and although this wont stop me going in, I feel slightly disappointed with the change. It may be better in the summer when the families will sit outside with the children.
I noticed that the refurb has attracted the attention of our upmarket neighbours in East Dulwich, although their verdict is largely unfavourable:
http://www.eastdulwichforum.co.uk/forum ... 961,page=1
Can't see any mention that the pub is actually in Sydenham!
http://www.eastdulwichforum.co.uk/forum ... 961,page=1
Can't see any mention that the pub is actually in Sydenham!