Will Collinson's Dining Rooms, Fonthill Road c1905

Comment by andy h on April 26, 2019 at 17:06

I think I'd enjoy most of it . Although I've never eaten soused herring, I'm always up for a new experience.

I would however think twice given the expression on Mrs Collinsons face, she seems to have an odd thousand yard stare. Quite intimidating and I definitely wouldn't send any dish back!

Comment by andy h on April 26, 2019 at 17:11

I just looked up the herring and it sounds very much like "roll mops" which I love. So all good for me.

Comment by Hugh on April 26, 2019 at 17:40

It sounds like the very bland British food of my worst imaginings. A meal consisting of "Large Tea, 2 Thick Slices and a Plate of Cold Meats" could be tasty enough, but in the wrong hands could be pretty horrible. 

I'm assuming the "LCTU" refers to the London Carman's Union. See the piece below from the Gloucester Citizen, 5th September 1911.

Comment by andy h on April 26, 2019 at 17:49

Ha ha, yes , my recollections of British food in the 70s are certainly grim. But 100 years ago? Surely it couldn't have been worse. 

Food hygene might well have been an issue tho, and given the state of mr Collinsons apron your guts might well have complained bitterly.

Comment by Hugh on April 26, 2019 at 17:58

I imagine that it could easily have been worse!

And you do wonder about the sign in the left hand window. What reputation is Will seeking to distance himself from?

And, it's worth bearing in mind that Will's gaff was just round the corner from the street that got the reputation as being one of the worst streets in London.

Comment by andy h on April 26, 2019 at 18:08

I was hoping that the sign was a signal of a rise in standards, but ?.......

Comment by Hugh on April 26, 2019 at 18:22

I'm sure it was supposed to be. But from what, to what, we'll never know (unless of course one of the Bunkies was regular customer of both Will and his predecessor and kept a diary.....!)

Comment by John Shulver on September 27, 2024 at 16:41

Courses for 'orses Hugh !  'Large tea and 2 thick slices of (thick)dripping' were a firm favourite at Doll's Cafe on corner of St Ann's Road/Warwick Gardens for me and countless others in the 60s.  Salt added to personal taste !!

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