The Prince Albert, Battersea

There's something about London and the north south divide. As soon as you cross a bridge something changes, the atmosphere is just completely different. For starters there is more open space south of the river. You get more commons in south London than in north London. Clapham common being one of the most well-known. Of course there are the bridges, bridging that gap I suppose! My favourite is Albert bridge. At night it is illuminated, I have read, by some 4,000 light bulbs. It is a beautiful landmark. I frequently opt to walk across. Currently there is work done on the bridge so it's only open to pedestrians.

Last night I made my way over the bridge, stopping to marvel at the wonderful views. At night from the east side you can see all the way to Chelsea bridge and the Battersea power station. Battersea park on one side and Chelsea embankment on the other. Continue over the bridge and you will find the entrance of battersea park to your left and The Prince Albert on your right. That was my destination.

I walked in to a buzzing yet not overcrowded pub to find our table. My friend's name and time of reservation was written on a tile. There was another group sitting at the table and as soon as I appeared they very politely left, despite of my assurances that they were welcome to stay till my friends arrived. Everyone seemed to be there enjoying their drinks and engaged in conversation. This never strikes me as a place of see and be seen. It's a genuine meeting place for people to have some good food and a drink.

The waiter, thoughtfully asked me if I would like some water or a drink while I was waiting- I was holding a table for 6! I didn't mind waiting. The surroundings are so charming- a brightly decorated pub with a big bar in the middle.

The menu was small and varied, just they way it should be if you ask me! Starters include a soup of the day (£4.50) and chicken liver parfait (£6.50). The menu does change and there are always special. I had the burger (£11). It came with cheese and it was simply excellent. I would recommend it. It came with thick hand cut chips. My friend had the flat iron steak, which is a cut from the shoulder, (£11.50) from the specials board. It was well cooked and tender- also recommended. Other dishes included the battered cod and chips and rib-eye steak.

Although we opted for no dessert, from what I could see from the neighbouring tables, these too looked excellent.

If you live north of the river, the trip is most certainly worth it. If you live locally- lucky you!

The Prince Albert, 85 Albert Bridge Rd, Battersea, SW11 4PF Tel: 020 7228 0923 www.theprincealbertbattersea.co.uk