Traditions

When S stays in Bristol, we make a point of trying to find a pub that he hasn't been to before.

We haven't failed yet.

Often, we don't even really need to try that hard.

This time we managed two - the Old Station in Hallatrow and the Small Bar in Kings Street.

Neither of these places were this year's new favourite or anything, but both had their plus points.

The Old Station has a quirky interior and perfectly well-kept beer...but we were a little disappointed with range of beers.  Still, we had a couple of pints of a Oakham brew which hit the spot nicely before we headed home.  I wouldn't rush back, but it was a pleasant enough diversion.

On the other hand, the Small Bar has a bit more potential.  It's a wee bit self-consciously trendy but it had a good mix of cask and keg beers of various styles.
I think I liked the fact that you order from a board not from pump clips and the board is grouped into styles of beer.  Nice touch.
Beer generally comes in "two-thirds" which would be a really nice size for trying a few more beers, but it pushes the price up a fair bit, which was a tad annoying.  It meant that the Dark Star Hophead they had on cask worked out at just over four quid a pint.  There's really no need for that.

I think that was my only quibble - and my Tiny Rebel Zool was lovely stuff.

I still prefer the Beer Emporium over the road...but S wasn't sure.  Means we'll have to go back to the Emporium next time he's in town to double-check.

Has to be said, though, new pubs aside, the old favourites were like your favourite washed and worn jeans.  The Barley Mow and the Seven Stars continue to deliver.  And we love 'em for it.