Seemor
Hop PoleA-Worth Trying
64 Putney Bridge Rd, London SW18 1HR
· Pub, Bar, Restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (577 reviews)
Delivery · Outdoor seating
Characterful Irish pub with a legit Thai kitchen; great Guinness, lively sports vibe, and reliably tasty curries at fair prices.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
Hop Pole delivers solid neighborhood dining through strong food quality in its Thai curries and reliable service attentiveness, earning an A-grade standing. Generally consistent execution and exceptional value make it competitive with respected local favorites, though modest pub aesthetics and occasional starter inconsistency prevent the higher distinction of grade A territory. The winning formula—quality Thai comfort food in a warm, welcoming pub setting—appeals to regulars and families seeking straightforward, well-executed dining without pretension.
Restaurant Summary
A neighbourhood Irish pub that feels warm and bustling, Hop Pole draws regulars for a well-poured Guinness and the surprise of a full Thai menu. Reviewers talk about friendly staff and quick food, with one noting, "curries came out hot and hit the spot." On match days it becomes a lively sports den, while the small rear garden offers a breather. Expect casual pub charm over polish. The cooking leans classic Thai comfort rather than flashy—think green, red, panang, and massaman curries with reliable stir-fries. The culinary approach is elevated traditional Thai: familiar flavors done well, good portions, and pricing that stays friendly. If you are chasing creativity, look elsewhere, but if you want solid curries with a pint, this is the move. For families, the pub is welcoming to kids in a casual setting. The menu has genuinely approachable options: egg fried rice, plain noodles, spring rolls, chicken satay, and mild massaman. It is still a pub with sport energy, so consider quieter times if your crew prefers a calmer meal, but food-wise there are easy wins for picky eaters.
At a Glance
- Guiness and Thai combo works unusually well
- Value is strong with mains around £10
- Lively atmosphere for sports with a cosy garden
- Starters can be inconsistent compared to excellent curries
- Delivery complaints in older reviews; dine-in is more reliable
What Sets It Apart
- irish_pub_with_thai_kitchen
- notably_good_guinness
- lively_sports_atmosphere
- cozy_garden_space
What People Love
- Rich, comforting curries that exceed pub expectations
- A properly poured, cold Guinness
- Friendly, community vibe with regulars
- Fair prices for the quality
Points of Concern
- Some starter items reported as underwhelming or not freshly prepared compared to mains (medium frequency)
- Occasional service friction in older reviews; generally friendly otherwise (low frequency)
- Kitchen closing earlier than expected relative to website hours on busy nights (isolated reports)
- Delivery/remake dispute from 2022 suggests off-premise can be hit-and-miss (isolated but notable)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£22-28 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Pair Massaman (£9.95) with Egg Fried Rice (£2.95) for a hearty, mildly spiced meal under £13
- Vegetarians can build a meal from Spring Rolls (£4.75) and Vegetable Dumplings (£4.25), then a veg curry (£9.95) if available—ask to confirm fish sauce
- Spice lovers should try Jungle Curry (£9.95) for a coconut-free, punchy option
Perfect For
- Casual weeknight curry with a pint
- Watching a match with friends
- Solo pint and quick meal
- Low-key weekend lunch in the garden
Location Insights
Area: Residential-meets-commercial strip between Wandsworth and Putney with strong local pub culture and sports-watching crowd.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked main road with steady footfall; typical London urban safety norms.
Nearby: Near other neighborhood pubs, small shops, and bus routes; river and Putney high street are a walk away.
PutneyA vibrant riverside neighborhood known for its green spaces, proximity to the Thames, and a blend of traditional and contemporary dining scenes. The area offers a sophisticated yet relaxed urban lifestyle with good transport connections.
Putney BridgeA distinctive area near the iconic Putney Bridge, featuring a mix of residential properties and local amenities with easy access to riverside walks and transport links.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Available: Delivery, Outdoor seating
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