Name: Brouge at The Old Goat
Address: 241 Hampton Road, London, Twickenham, TW2 5NG, UK
Telephone: +44 (0) 20 8977 2698
Rating: 7

I was disappointed when Brouge on Richmond’s Hill Street closed – where was I to find mussels now? But I was delighted to learn that the place had reopened at a nearby bar (The Old Goat) that was just about walking distance from home. Ok, hiking distance.

The Old Goat is a huge corner pub at a main crossroads between Twickenham, Whitton and Teddington. I wonder how noisy it is when you are seated out on the extensive exterior decking at the back? Luckily, we managed to find a parking space on the public road right outside. It’s just across from a large DIY store and a locally-acclaimed garden centre so I can imagine that it’s busy on weekend afternoons.

Inside the place is huge – numerous large open bar areas (I noticed a small TV screen in one corner), with sizeable tables to accommodate groups of people and even a couple of sofas. Then out at the back there is a large restaurant area which extends into a rather pleasant conservatory.

We had come with the specific intent of sampling their signature dish (those moules) but declined a seat in the comfortably busy restaurant as it’s family-friendly policy meant that there were a couple of squeaky babies in there and, frankly, I wasn’t in the mood to have one on the next table. (Call me “Grumpy” but when my kids were little I didn’t impose their fractious moments on others in public places). Dogs are only allowed on the decking outside so I won’t be a regular visitor when the weather is cold.

We found a table in the bar area and settled in. The tea lights gave an intimate glow to the otherwise quite plain but modern décor. But I should mention the large Brouge posters on the walls – they added a suitably Continental and bistro feel to the place.

We did have to make regular trips to the door to shut out the freezing breeze as others walked in and out. Seated outside the restaurant area, we were advised to place our order at the bar. But pretty soon a waiter came over to take it. That was nice.

We shared some light and crispy calamari (£6.50) and a bread basket (£2.25) while we waited for our moules a la crème (£12.95) which we thoroughly enjoyed. There are other moules dishes – Marinere, Thai scented and a la Provencale. Starter dishes include sharing platters (£14.50), soup (£4.50), figs with goats’ cheese and Parma ham (£6.50) and baked Brie (£5.95).

And there was an interesting play list – with a few dodgy numbers. But I was delighted to hear Mary J Blige, Marvin Gaye and Simply Red songs in the mix.

And if you are not a moules-fan, there are plenty of other main courses including battered haddock (£12.50), braised lamb shank (£16.50), rack of baby back pork ribs (£16.95), steak and ale pie (£10.95) and 8oz rib eye steak and chips (£16.25). There are also fajitas (from £11.50) and burgers (from £8.95).

And we were tempted to sample the waffles (chocoholic variety £5.75) even though we were told that they weren’t home-made. They were good but an enormous portion.

There was a wide selection of wines – we tried a large glass of Sauvignon Blanc La Campagne (£6.60) which went down well. There are over 75 beers available here – both on draught and in bottles - that should keep the chaps happy. There’s a kids menu -- £5.25 for a main dish, drink and pudding. And also a Sunday carvery £10.95.

It’s a pleasant, busy, modern pub, with a steady flow of folk coming and going. I’m glad it’s close enough to be considered a “local” for me – and those moules were really very good. Apparently, there are also various events – including live music – although you need to check the boards outside as the web site doesn’t look very up to date.

Brouge at The Old Goat

Smoking Area

Big Screen TV

Disabled Facilities

Children Welcome

Credit Cards Accepted

Music Played

Live Music Played

Outdoor Area

Booking Advisable

Brouge at The Old Goat Picture Gallery

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