Corporate slaughter.
After many years enjoying the The Bollo as our favourite local quality gastro, pub it was with some dismay that we saw that at the turn of the year it had fallen into the hands of corporate chain owners... Metro.
Maybe, we said, they will manage to retain The Bollo's reputation as a fine local choice, combining quality food and service with the kind of comfortable atmosphere that encouraged most customers to linger for hours over their drinks, having eaten. Or often to bring in a group to celebrate a special occasion.
Yes, readers you have guessed correctly. The Bollo now with "House" added, under corporate ownership has substantially declined.
They managed to add 30% to our average previous lunch bill while at the same time serving 2 memorably indifferent main courses. Small portions of poor quality meat, poorly cooked, with a mean or absent vegetable accompaniment.
The 3rd (sandwich) main course was fine and one portion of sticky toffee pudding was fine, but how hard is that? Coffee was OK though!
The refurb, to no doubt try and attract an expanded local office worker population, has swept away the settees and smaller tables that were part of The Bollo's charm. Also gone are the popular drink and a main course lunch deals.
Now dear readers try the Bollo "House" if you crave disappointment. If not make a booking at other Chiswick locals. The Duke of Sussex, The George or The Hole in the Wall.