The Dog & Fox has always been a good pub, but leaning more towards the fun side. After a big recent refurbishment however, I’d been told it had taken on a more of a refined approach, I was desperate to see the transformation, so I decided to make the trip to Wimbledon Village.
The Venue
The Dog & Fox treads the fine line between homely gastro pub and smart restaurant bar perfectly. On entrance my eyes were immediately drawn to a wall of vintage tennis rackets, plus a variety of ornate mirrors and plush armchairs – all creating a really homely vibe. As we were escorted to our intimate corner booth for the evening, we observed the stunning dining room and were instantly impressed by the bright spacious area that lay before us. With an open kitchen and long bar, The Dog & Fox welcomes you in with real aplomb.
The array of comfy seats epitomises The Dog & Fox's style and vibe.
The Atmosphere and Clientele
Despite it being a Thursday evening, The Dog & Fox was very busy. The buzzing bar area was fit to burst with smart, well-dressed drinkers enjoying a few drinks; the dining area was slightly quieter, but had a nice mix of couples on dates chatting and groups of friends enjoying a stunning meal together before Christmas. At the far end of the dining area is a separate room called ‘The Library’, this was full with a Christmas party, who were all laughing and joking – showing The Dog & Fox is ideally suited for that special event.
Quirky features such as the wall of vintage tennis rackets really draw the eye.
The Food and Drinks
The food menu reads like an upmarket pub menu, with those restaurant touches that make every good gastro pub tick. We started with the Chicken & Apricot Terrine (for me) and the Potted White & Brown Brixham Crabmeat (for her); both were great starters, not too filling and bursting with flavour.
The Dog & Fox make a big deal of their steak, so we decided to test them. They passed with flying colours; both our sirloins were cooked to perfection and the sides of chips and wilted chard were tasty too. Dessert brought the Ice Cream Sundae (3 flavours, chocolate sauce, cinnamon cracker and berry compote in tow) and the Cheese Selection; both hit the spot, and after I finished my ice cream, I kept tucking into the stunning cheeses, despite how full I was.
Drinks-wise, The Dog & Fox offer a range of beers, wines and cocktails to challenge any gastro pub I’ve ever been to. A welcome additions to the beer menu included Camden Hells Lager, which I’ve rarely seen outside East London, being a Young’s pub too, the ales were also on point.
Couples and larger groups alike are catered for at The Dog & Fox.
Summary
Well, I can’t say I was surprised; The Dog & Fox was a good pub before, and now in my books, it’s a great one. The new décor is smart and chic, and the food was top quality. Add to all this that it is located in the serene setting of Wimbledon Village, and you are really in for a treat.
