Grumbling yet again

Way back in 2006 and again in 2011, some members may recall we visited Grumbles in Pimlico. Your organiser felt it was about time for a return visit as it is one of his personal favourites (and the fact it saved him from writing a lot of the copy again had nothing to do with it.).

Grumbles opened its doors in 1964 and started serving good food at non-scary prices and is still doing so today. In those early days it was one of the first restaurants in that area as the relatively small number that then existed in London were mainly concentrated in the West End. The original owner was told he was mad to even consider opening a restaurant in Pimlico. (In those days the rent for the premises was £12 per week – and an average meal for two cost well under £3).

Grumbles is effectively a bistro that has proved a favourite with the locals and prides itself on serving good food at affordable prices. Back in those early days it was also a favourite haunt of the pop stars and the celebrities alike of that era. Mick Jagger, Julie Christie, the Beatles, Michael Foot, Rod Steiger, Princess Diana (Diana Spencer as was), the Mamas and Papas, Princess Margaret, Christine Keeler were amongst the many who have frequented it.

It is probably unlikely to ever win a Michelin star but nevertheless continues to serve consistently good, honest food with friendly service and has character by the bucket load. It has only ever had three owners, Jeremy Friend who first opened it in 1964 and after some 30 years passed over the reins to Charles Tidman who in turn passed it over to Alex Turnbull who runs it today.

We have reserved most of the downstairs area of this small restaurant and can therefore seat a maximum of 20. These will be made up of tables of four, with an alcove that seats a larger number.

We have selected a range of dishes for your delectation, together with a couple of suitable wines.          

Half Dozen Escargots in Garlic Butter (EG)  or
Pan Fried Tiger Prawns with Garlic, Chilli, Olive Oil & Parsley (TP) or
Grilled Goat’s Cheese on Crouton with caramelised red onion (GC)
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Penne Pasta with Cherry Vine Tomatoes, Mozzarella Pearls,Pine Nuts, Basil & Pesto Quenelle (PP) or
Grilled Chicken Breast topped with fresh asparagus & cheddar cheese, served with a creamy mushroom & white wine sauce (GCB) or
Cod in beer batter with chips, crushed minted peas & tartare sauce (DC) or
Moroccan Lamb Tagine with Sweet Potato, Couscous, Flaked Almonds & Raita (ML)
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Crème Brulee  (CB) or
Sticky Date & Chocolate Pudding with Custard and Butterscotch Sauce (SD)    or
Vanilla Ice Cream with Hot Chocolate Sauce  & Toasted Almonds (VI) 

The price includes wines & coffee.
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Venue:                Grumbles, 35 Churton Street, Pimlico, SW1V 2LT
Nearest tube:    Victoria or Pimlico
Mobility:              4  –  stairs to function room / toilet
Time:                   7.00 pm. for 7.30 pm
Dress:                 Smart casual
Price:                   £55 Members  £60 Guests
Organiser:          Roger Ellis          Tel: 01494 837857
                               E-mail: roger.ellis@iwfs.london   

 Please mark your menus selections in the Additional Information box below when making your bookings, using the two letter codes for each dish.   If you do not we will choose for you.