I announce that I’m off to The Hammersmith Ram for supper but don’t receive the response expected. ‘Are you sure? Isn’t that an old man’s drinking pub…?’ I take their word for what this joint may have once been, but with a recent strip, polish and a rather bright lick of paint; Hammersmith High Street has been greeted with the new and improved Hammersmith Ram.
On my visit it had been re-opened a mere month but was already bursting at the exposed brick walls. You cannot deny that it isn’t a pub and that still remains a firm favourite in terms of local drinking holes, but more so than the pints and packets of crisps this re-design has given the Ram an edge over its former self.
The first I’ve come across with a burger shack at its rear, it’s less about gastro and more about great pub grub with a competitive city twist and with a list of juicy, guilty burgers. An example includes the Chilli Pulled Pork that marks itself halfway down the menu; a prime British beef burger sandwiched with ale onions, cheese, chilli pulled pork, shredded lettuce, ketchup, mayo, pickles and curly fries.
Short and sweet the mains are arguably overshadowed by the team of burgers. My guest orders one, and I cautiously opt for a main; eager to compare. This comes in the form of an 8oz New York strip steak with, fries, roasted shallot butter and watercress; I am delightfully pleased with a glistening, tender strip of steak and tasty fries. Others listed include a lobster and crayfish roll with avocado and curly fries; and Reuben sandwich with swiss cheese, Russian dipping sauce and pickled cabbage. Continuing with the recent trend of sharing plates, smaller switch-up options are fried buttermilk chicken wings, pulled pork and Ogleshield macaroni cheese.
An all-round seasonal menu that also remains loyal to British heritage, The Ram has too expanded into the brunching market. Until 5pm daily brunch options include waffles served with bacon or berries; sweet potato and pumpkin hash with poached egg; and seared gravalax muffin with spinach and hollandaise with signature Bloody Marys.
A relaxed, modern and 21st century pub The Hammersmith Ram pay homage to its rich reputation with the former name of ‘The Builder’s Arms’ ghost writing on the exposed brick wall; hinting to building’s past. Tables are illuminated by exposed bulbs against a smooth dark wood bar that is accompanied by leather Chesterfields and racing green and violet velvet banquettes. Restored features have been brought back to life such as vibrant stained glass set with exposed brick framed with metal beams.
It’s clear that The Hammersmith Ram has caught up. The strong menu has tapped into the ever popular gourmet burger city trend, opening its arms with a fresh perspective. At the same time with careful and detailed renovations and remaining loyally British; The Ram presents a newer, younger and friendlier atmosphere and has clearly won the hearts of a wider field of punters.
Address: 81 King St, Hammersmith, London W6 9HW, 020 8748 4511, thehammersmithram.co.uk
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