Pub culture?

Today is Monday. I haven't been into a pub today. I didn't go to the pub last Monday either. Neither of these absences have arisen from particular anti-pub decisions. I just didn't go.

For those not living in Britain, it may seem a little confusing (or even concerning) that I make note of days without visits to the pub. Such frequent patronage of public houses would be highly unusual in New Zealand, but here in Blighty the pub far more than a place to go every week or so to get wrecked. In fact, with the dearth of decent takeaways (or even casual restaurants) that plagues the London I live in, the humble pub is a good bet for lunch or dinner any day of the week. It doesn't hurt to down a lager or two while you're there, of course, but it's a very relaxing way to pass the time if you have some good company (or even a good read).

Pub food varies quite a bit in quality as well as selection. The good old bangers & mash can be found everywhere, and most pubs have a meatless version as well. I can't comment on the carnivorous ones, but it's interesting to compare the interpretation of vege sausage at different places. The Old Bank of England on Fleet Street will give you a large plate of delicious Glamorgan sausages with soft mash, delicious gravy and a salad including rings of red onion; The Court on TCR serves a swimming pool of gravy surrounded by walls made of something dry and fairly plain called Quorn.

I'm tempted to start taking a notepad to the pub with me and doing little mini-reviews, actually. Not on Mondays, of course...