There aren't that many pubs who turn into chains properly, without even realising you are in a chain. O' Neils appeared to us as a very basic pub, not as great as the old independent ones spread across Wimbledon. However, the atmosphere felt "pubby" enough for us to consider it the best among pub chains.
The wooden dark feel of pubs is heavily counter-balanced by large windows almost ceiling-to-floor, which makes it the best at lunch or any time during daylight. This is where we took our seat and reviewed the menu. Most of the dishes are pub classics with either ingredients or names slightly changed or more Irish-driven. Nevertheless, you have quite a large choice of standard pub dishes which do not delve into "posh" ingredients or keep the "gastro-pub" craze to a minimum, such as the boar and chorizo burger.
Our selection covered some cornerstones of pub food. The ultimate fish 'n' chips is a very generous combo portion of haddock which does not look frozen or at least dried up in cheap batter - we wished there were more chips. The classic burger was plain and pretty standard. The sausage and mash had very succulent sausages but a grainy mash without any smooth texture. Last but not least, the vegetable tart had a nice taste but was too hot and slightly burnt on the edges.
The bill was fairly cheap or slightly below average. We did not feel the place had any 'wow' factor unless on an evening out for drinks. Yet, it did not disappoint completely with obvious hints of cheap food. O' Neils is squeezed in the middle of the average lunch.
Our verdict is as follows:
Quality of Food 3.00
Hygiene 3.25
Value for Money 4.00
Speed of Service 3.75
Quality of Service 3.50
Ambience & décor 3.50
O' Neils gets an overall rating of 68.5%
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