July 2023. Burslem, Stoke-on-Trent.
Where were we ?
Oh yes, Burslem market place.
Johny of Johny’s micropub fame, remembering my earlier enquiry, had just messaged me saying he’d open up an hour earlier than planned.
What a great chap.
But what’s his pub like ?
Well, a small pub, really. Cricket on the TV (“England mucking up again”), local history on the wall, proper seating.
I liked it a lot. But is this one of those “micros” dominated by gin and prosecco with average homebrews ?
“Dark Drake please“
“A half, yes ?” . Has he got me down as a ticker ?
“A pint ! Who drinks halves ?“.
First sip, it’s nectar, cool, dark and rich (NBSS 4). Johny goes back out to enjoy the sun/avoid the cricket. I admire the pottery, then join him.
I tell him his beer is great (it is). He tells me the three most important things in running a pub are “cellar, toilets, and staff“. And he’s right.
A few people come and say hello, the next customer gets beer in a Bass glass (not Bass, Ian), and suddenly Burslem has two of the best pubs in the country, 10 yards apart. A must visit.
Just don’t press the button that says PRESS. Please.
retiredmartin 