The Brown Dog Barnes

Proper pubs are the beating heart of a community; loved ones come together to chat, laugh and decompress, drinks are poured endlessly, friends bump into each other unexpectedly and the thrumming hum of conversation never dies. The Brown Dog is, quite clearly, a proper pub. This revamped local in the heart of Barnes is nestled so discreetly away from the main high street that it’s almost like it doesn’t want to be found – rather, this is a local made solely for locals. We’re nestled between large celebratory groups, parents coddling their newborns, and dog-owners with their pooches in tow. It's only a casual Wednesday night, but we feel like we’ve joined a party.  

The pub dates back to 1898 and the team have taken care to retain plenty of its original charm, from an old, weathered fireplace to vintage wooden tables and chairs. It’s smart but cosy, with a large, navy bar in the centre of the room forming the nucleus of the space.  

Like the interiors, the menu is fashionable yet familiar, with dishes ranging from a house burger to pan fried sea bream with grenobloise sauce. And the cooking really is excellent. An addictive bowl of mushroom tagliatelle sees delicate strands of fresh pasta coated in a rich sauce of wine, parmesan and a hint of tarragon. Next, perfectly pink onglet steak and ultra crisp fries arrive with a gorgeous mushroom and peppercorn sauce that’s so good we almost ask for a spoon. There are only two sweet desserts, and we ordered both: a still-warm slice of Bakewell tart paired with a scoop of clotted cream, and a smooth chocolate cremeux swimming in the saltiest of caramels – sublime.  

The Brown Dog is well worth seeking out if you’re in the area. Not only can you guarantee a top-notch meal here, but it promises to welcome you with open arms.  

In the enchanting back streets of Barnes, The Brown Dog stands out as a delightful, independently owned pub and dining room in South West London's Little Chelsea. This traditional free house, rooted in the heart of the historic village of Barnes, offers a warm and inclusive atmosphere. As a cherished community pub, The Brown Dog has been a local staple for years, welcoming everyone, from locals and tourists to children and dogs.

At The Brown Dog, community love and friendship is at the pub’s core. The team take pride in thoughtfully selecting their suppliers, collaborating with outstanding British producers, and adapting their menu to embrace seasonal changes. Fun is a fundamental element of hospitality according to The Brown Dog, and as they become a neighbourhood favourite.

Dating back to 1898 and formerly known as The Rose of Denmark, The Brown Dog retains much of its original charm and features. The bar boasts a thoughtfully curated wine list, lagers, cask ales, and the signature Brown Dog Ale, making it the ideal spot for a casual drink. The seasonal menu, filled with home cooked favourites, caters to all occasions, from quick bites to leisurely gatherings with friends and family. The Brown Dog invites you to indulge in the charm of history, character, and community.

For the table, guests are recommended to order a selection of dishes to share. Choose from giant queen Spanish olives and smoked almonds, to padron peppers with flaked sea salt and duck terrine with toasted sourdough and pickles. When it's time for mains, enjoy dishes of daily market fish with crab bisque, saffron potatoes and spinach, or roasted aubergine salad with curried yoghurt, beetroot, kohlrabi, apple and pomegranate.