Since shopping in Harrods is likely to leave you with empty pockets it’s just as well that even Knightsbridge has some standard boozers left in which to sip a pint and reflect on what you’ve just spent.
Located on Brompton Road, just a short walk from arguably the world’s most famous department store, the Bunch of Grapes keeps things simple. Traditional to the core, despite a refurbishment in the not-so-distant past the pub has kept it classy with a tiled checkerboard floor, the soothing wood and red walls of pubs gone by and an array of etched and mirrored glass.
If it really is trying to attract the Harrods crowd then it is going the right way about it. From the exterior’s liberal – and rather striking - spread of hanging plants to the almost sepia hue spread by the lights within, this is a pub that was always going to make the most of its location and aim to impress the tourists on the hunt for ‘olde authenticity’. And there’s nothing wrong with that. The Bunch of Grapes beats seeking solace in one of the many soulless bars and brasseries around Brompton Road and you can even trick yourself into ordering a ‘traditional home-baked’ meal from the menu. Fish & chips, steak & chips, ham, egg & chips… it’s definitely traditional pub grub. Who knows about the home-baked side of the deal.
Being a Greene King establishment, you’ll find the likes of their own IPA, Old Speckled Hen and Abbot Ale from the cask and a selection of the usual continental lagers. Expect prices to reflect the area with pints of lager clocking in at over £4, though compared to other local establishments, that should do nothing to stop you enjoying this rather relaxed, warm Knightsbridge local.
