Shackology

The Crown and Anchor - a rare dud in an area of excellent pubs - has had a very stylish makeover. Interior walls have been removed to make way for large, airy spaces, and an open kitchen. The furniture is smart and simple, laid out so there are several options for sofa lounging, restaurant dining, or pubbish sociability. The bar remains the centrepiece of the room (though with no beer on tap). The service was amiable, but farcical, and will have to vastly improve if they want to make it as restaurant. That said, however, what Shackology does offer is delicious food and unbelievably low prices. A rotisserie chicken (for 2) was a juicy whole free-range bird, served with an enormous pile of salad and sauté potatoes for an unbelievably cheap £15. Salmon and potato Frittata was a generous wedge of fresh fish and firm spuds. A cheese board was three well-sourced British cheeses, including an amazing crumbly cheddar. There is nothing here you couldn't make at home - but it would cost almost the same, you wouldn't do such a good job, you wouldn't be eating in such a convivial spot and you'd have to wash up afterwards. They also have a family room upstairs, with toys and DVDs, which is a great idea for this area. Sort out the service, and this will be a Chiswick favourite for years to come.