Croxton's Kitchen & Tap House in Portsmouth

Very overpriced and tiny portions. Slow service and other tables served that had come in after us. Place was very clean and nice surroundings

Thank you to Lou and the team for providing a great surprise birthday night for my son. Emily and Melissa were so helpful on the night. We all had a fun night and the food was fabulous. Thank you Sue and Jazz

Had the Mother Clucker 3 x times. Absolutely excellent (& half price on Thursday) very stylish restaurant. Great interior & music. Spotless as are the downstairs toilets. Food is excellent. Staff are friendly & welcoming without being intrusive. Served by Emily who is absolutely charming. Beer a bit pricey but they do a draught Staropramen. Highly recommend & will visit again this week. Becoming a favourite of mine. Ideal place well situated in Southsea

Lovely place, our server Emily was really kind and hospitable. She made us feel welcome

Frequently pop in for a drink. Great location and dog friendly. Nice atmosphere and Louise makes banging cocktails. 10/10

Amazing night out with my family, Emily really helped make the night enjoyable with great service. Food was delicious and well worth every penny

Love going to croxtons always has a great vibe and the staff are very welcoming especially Lou!

I would bet good money that we had the same server as Dan James, who wrote a bad review below. We went for Sunday lunch, their busiest time. We were a party of 12. As soon as we were seated we were told we had two hours for the table (which we weren't told beforehand - booked by phone, maybe it's on the website but the person who took the booking didn't let us know). So it was just hectic all round. Kind of noisy in the restaurant. Blah blah. But what you'd expect at any good Sunday lunch place, particularly when you're a large group. But the guy, I want to guess he's the floor manager, who seated us, took hectic to a whole other place. He was just.... Brittle. Dan (below) uses the phrases "passive aggressive" and "snappy". I'm going to go with brittle. Same energy though. As soon as he seated us sand walked away I said to my friend kind of sarcastically, "My word, he's full of bonhomie, isn't he!?" He just seemed like a guy at the end of his tether who was trying really hard but actually just needed to go in the back and have a sit down. He was superficially smiley and jovial but it was all so forced it was kind of unnerving. He was just on edge with us for the whole meal. Then when we got to ordering desserts he was standing right over me, shouting (it's a loud venue, fair enough) but right above me, shouting, "Does anyone want a dessert?" Everyone, apart from the one person who ordered a lemon sponge (which was far too dry when it came), was just mildly shaking their head. But no, he had to go round one by one, "Do you want a dessert? Do you want a dessert? Do you want a dessert?" Making everyone explicitly say no to him. He asks everyone round the table, one by one, like he's a teacher taking register. He's standing right over me so I didn't turn my head to make eye contact because I would have had to turn in my seat and crick my neck and look straight up. So I just looked down and shook my head. I'm also really softly spoken so he wouldn't have heard me say no. Mistake. Have you ever had a waiter poke you? Like, actually jab you twice in the arm? As if you're a naughty kid who isn't paying attention in class, and demand that you answer the question? (Actually scrap that because I don't think a teacher would even poke their pupils to get them to answer.) And then, when you turn around, shout the question into your face again? No. It's not usual is it? Whatever. I left it, we finished the meal, but on the way out said. "I just wanted to say that I didn't appreciate you poking me." I wasn't aggressive, I just didn't want him doing it to another woman who might feel more intimidated. He's a loud, large guy and he was right over me. He responded, "Sorry if I offended you." Which is a weird take so I said,"I wasn't offended, I was annoyed." (Which is true, and also "sorry if I offended you is such a cop out apology, makes it seem like it's your fault for getting offended."). Mistake. He then just started shouting the same thing over and over again. "I'm just trying to do my job madam. I'm just trying to do my job madam." I tried to say, "Yes, and I'm just saying you didn't have to do it like that." But he didn't hear because he was shouting "I'm just trying to do my job madam. I'm just trying to do my job madam." I gave up and just walked out. To any managers reading this review. I will bet a lot of money that you know who this guy is because his energy was radiating off him. The brittle bonhomie guy. I bet he's in charge of other servers because he's got experience and he's got that teachery vibe. I am sure you rely on him a lot. Doesn't matter. You really need to take him off busy shifts for a while. I swear he's gonna crack if you keep him out there. Not to mention that next time he physically pokes someone, it might be the wrong person and they might lamp him one. Give him some grace and some space and let him sit back a bit for a while. Apart from that the food was fantastic (apart from the dry lemon sponge which had never met syrup in its short life). Bit pricey, but worth it.

We'd been wandering around looking for somewhere that stood out for a lunch for me and 2 young teenagers. I am so happy that we stumbled across Croxton's it was just the right mix of cool atmosphere and the most delish menu! Service was great and the food exceptional, great value too. We especially loved the pulled pork ciabatta it was bursting with flavour! The hot chocs went down well too on a rainy day. We'll definitely be back and have recommended you to others already, thank you to all the team!

Had hot drinks as part of going to a running club. Liked the atmosphere of the venue. Haven't tried the food yet but will!

Great food, but the service was awful. We were told over the phone that an extra person could be accommodated, but when we arrived, the server scolded us and dismissed any explanation. His passive-aggressive attitude made the whole meal uncomfortable. He even snapped at a friend for asking about a menu item. We ate quickly and regretted paying the service charge. It’s a shame because the food was great, but I won’t be back unless the service improves.

Delicious food and wonderful service as always!

We had a very good meal at Croxtons with their mid week meal deals. In particular buy one burger get the other burger for £1. When the burgers came they were tasty and overall very good! However the problem was when it came to the bill we were charged £1 for the burger and £4.95 for the fries with the burger, it said no where on the menu fries were an extra, in-fact the menu stated “burgers come served in a brioche bun, with fries or a side salad” no where on the menu did it mention the additional charge for the fries! When we ordered the burgers the waiter didn’t ask if we wanted fries they just came with the burgers when they arrived! Really the deal is buy one burger for £17 get the other for £5.95. We would have been happy to pay £4.95 for the fries but what put a sour taste in my mouth was the miss leading mannor in which it was done! When me spoke to the supervisor about this issue, she completely shrugged us off and to be honest couldn’t have cared less! She stated it was on the menu but when we checked the menu with her it was not! A real pitty as we have always had good meals here but won’t be returning as we were misled!

Now doing breakfast which was so tasty. I had the Bangkok eggs which were delish 😋

Went for a casual breakfast on a Saturday morning, I had the French classic (scrambled egg served on a croissant with smoked cheese and truffle mayo) and my husband had the pastrami and egg bagel. Everything was delicious! The service was fab, the prices were decent and I will be trying to recreate the bagel at home!

The Early New Year's Eve Party was fantastic! The atmosphere, food & service was a perfect family friendly new years eve event, we'll certainly be back for this year's event & in-between.

Well what a lovely surprise.Looking for food on New Year’s Day. We were so lucky that they were serving a stunning roast. Excellent service,food and atmosphere.

We had our Christmas party here and could recommend it enough! The food was fantastic, the roast potatoes were to die for and the staff could not have been nicer. The whole atmosphere was great and I wouldn't hesitate to go back! Thanks Croxtons!

Christmas get together for a group of ten. Start to finish we couldn’t fault it. The booking process was seamless, their choices on the Christmas set menu were good and the food was excellent. Starters were tasty, the main courses were perfect with a wide array of vegetables with the crispiest roast potatoes and enormous Yorkshire puddings. The desserts were to die for and the service matched the high standards of the food. Excellent value for money. All round 5 star experience. Thank you.

What an amazing Xmas dinner we had! As a bit of a foodie. and a fussy one at that for fresh, homemade food, what a delicious meal. Soup was superb and the main was outstanding. Fillet steak cooked to perfection and a gravy that is plate-licking worthy! Thank you Croxtons, spot on.

Absolutely recommend this place

Glad the roast dinners ers are back👍

We love coming here especially for the amazing Sunday roast. Great atmosphere, music and friendly and welcoming staff. We've brought our parents here and also our child and we've also been here with a big group of friends so caters for all.

Went for a roast as it had good reviews online. Service was poor, food was average, probably the driest roast dinner I’ve ever had. Wouldn’t bother again.

We recently held our wedding at Croxtons 40+ people for a 3 course meal. Rufus, Brad & the gang delivered faultless service. The place looked amazing. And the food was insane. It made an amazing day even better.

Perfect chilled atmosphere, my son loved the music which was a big plus point.

Poor management, not enough staff, waiting for too long for drinks in a medium busy time. Drinks finally came, not all the right drinks and the glasses were dirty. I won't be returning and there are plenty of bars in Southsea so lots of competition.

It was hired out for a wedding pre reception meal From starter to dessert, the food was amazing, the drinks in between were poured just right, the staff was amazing and welcoming and the aesthetic was just right. Highly recomend to anyone wanting to hire out for an event or even just for food in general

Always polite and friendly staff, good good and great special offers

We popped in for a beer - and only a beer - but, when we saw the food coming out, and heard the diners each saying how amazing it was - we changed our mind, and ordered for ourselves, and... it was amazing: top quality - great (by which I mean big) portion sizes - and an absolute flavour-bomb across every mouthful - which was also coupled with excellent service and fabulous customer interaction! I was also introduced to a pint of "Shant"... which was also fab!

Awesome food and great drinks choices, especially for beer lovers Some great mid week offers too.

Really lovely evening, great staff and great food! Service was quick for an unexpected dinner on a Monday evening. Will be coming back!

Great food at a lovely place, nice atmosphere and friendly staff.

Really good chicken gyros bowl 👍🏼 Great service, relaxed atmosphere

Headed to Croxtons with a big group - great service, fantastic deals, and delicious food. We will be back!

Went in on a Friday night. A great DJ playing a live set, amazing atmosphere, amazing staff. Food was fantastic. Portions were larger than expected. Kind and patient staff all communicating confidently and with strong product knowledge.

Quick lunch during Victorious. Thought the service, food and beer was great. Even during Victorious which must have put extra strain on everyone. The brisket was amazing (dirty fries) and only £9. The beer was also really good and even sweeter given Victorious was charging £7 for a can of warm cider! I will visit again when next in Portsmouth.

Croxton’s in Southsea is a must-visit! The food is creative and delicious, with a menu that offers something for everyone. The atmosphere is vibrant and laid-back, perfect for a casual meal or a night out with friends. The staff are friendly and attentive, making sure you have a great experience from start to finish. Highly recommend for a fantastic dining experience in Southsea!

went for some food and drinks with a few friends. at first the service was really good but that was it. we didn’t know if it was table service just because it was quiet or if it was bar service now. we got one food and drink order taken and that was it for the 2 hours we were there. no one came to clear our plates or offer more drinks which was a shame because the food was actually quiet nice wouldn’t go back sadly

Great atmosphere with a good bunch of people serving. Enjoyed relaxing with friends. Beer choice a little limited.

Best food, friendly staff, what more could you ask for 🦋

We came here for lunch and the variety of dishes available is impressive. Though this is a popular pub on Palmerston Road, this doesn’t stop this venue from serving some amazing food. 10/10 for quality, taste & presentation.

We got the buy one get one for a £1 deal, the burgers alone are on the more expensive side but great value as part of the deal. Great quality meal and service 🍔 We also enjoyed the Croxtons own IPA 🍺

Always have a good meal here. Come every time we are at the outlets in Gunwharf for shopping. We leave Gunwharf head along towards the sea front and park. Pay and display. Originally came across it by accident on a stroll in good weather. Croxtons is only one street back. The roasts on a Sunday are the best 👌. Staff are friendly. Can sit outside in summer on the street too. Nice vibe. Our 5th visit. Definitely recommend.

Love the decor here and the service was great. Food wasn't really to my taste with limited non-meat options but if you're into burgers and lots of sauce on food then I'd recommend!

Congratulations to the kitchen, we had a very tasty meal there, which fortunately made the experience relatively good. However, the service was disappointing. When a friend ordered a Heineken 0.0%, they were first offered a dirty glass, and then it turned out the Heineken wasn't cold. These things can happen, we understand that such a 0.0% beer might not be ordered often and the fridge might not be fully stocked with these. When this was pointed out and a solution requested, the 'solution' provided was unacceptable. The beer glass was taken away without any explanation, and after about 10-15 minutes without beverage, we had to ask if there was already sight on a solution. My friend was then served another Heineken 0.0%, at that time not even finding it strange that it was already in a glass. When this one also turned out to be warm, we received the response, "Strange, we just put it in the fridge for 10 minutes!" Can you really take this seriously? The waitress clearly struggled to hide her displeasure that we didn't accept the previous incidents, and once the bill (for 10 people) was settled, she didn't even wait until we left to start gossiping about us to her colleague. A very strange experience where one waitress seriously lowers the overall standard of the whole establishment.

Dropped out from victorious for some cheaper pints and a break. Ended up ordering food. Had the best Mexican bean burger. Fab atmosphere. Today visited for Sunday lunch. Fantastic food, great atmosphere, unhurried enjoyable.

Lovely place for breakfast..& an alternative menu for the more adventurous eater ...Steak & eggs on tortillas with black beans ..with slash of hot hot sauce a win win for me...my chap had an amazing Full English with 2 Virgin Bloody mary's...well worth a visit

One of the best restaurants in the city, unbeatable food, good deals during the week and always a very good atmosphere.

Sunday roast was ok. Not the best in Southsea and the when the menu says "leg of lamb...served pink" it is heavily implied you have at least a partial leb of lamb and the meat is pink. Instead it was shredded and not pink. I get were working to a price point but it was a little disappointing. Tasted lamb tasted ok, rest of the dish was better.

Great food and a good kids menu. My daughter loved the ice-cream dessert with brownie, raspberry and blondie pieces.

Great tapas go for you will love it

We’ve been here a few times for the odd drink and can say the staff are consistently friendly and helpful - always a nice glass served with my wine choice and the Guinness is poured slowly and well, nice and cold. We had two drinks and enjoyed people watching and a good mucus and vibe. Thanks nice staff

Nice menu will eat here more often and dog friendly

We had Sunday Roast here late afternoon today as we had booked. Initial server was good, polite, punctual. Food was okay, nothing special and perhaps a bit overpriced. However once the manager left while we were still eating the staff basically gave up working. No one came to clear our plates away or ask if we wanted a dessert. No one asked if our meal was okay. The staff became effectively invisible. We eventually had to go to the bar to ask for our bill and a waitress brought it and said we could pay on the way out. I doubt we’ll be returning.

Delicious food at great prices. We had a main meal but the tapas looked lovely. Good atmosphere. Staff very friendly and helpful.

The staff here are friendly, and the food and cocktails are always delicious 🍸 Myself and my partner are regular visitors and have never been disappointed!

What a place! Great atmosphere, amazing food and a lovely team.

Friendly enough staff, mostly. Welcoming. First hour very attentive. Second hour very hard to get attention .. almost ignored. Drinks were ok except the coffee, the coffee was cold.

Popped down on a whim for a Thursday night burger! Found out a 2nd burger is only £1 on a deal! Incredible food. Had the buffalo and blue cheese chicken burger! Was amazing!

Friendly service. Food was well presented and tasty.. Full of flavour.. We had 3 meals 1. a tasty Vegan Burger made of hand-pressed black beans, battered onion rings, vegan cheese, gherkins and lettuce on a brioche bun. 2. Steak and Egg was yummy, as well as the 3. Chicken Tenders were delicious. The coffee was great too, we had Cappuccino, Oat Ameriana, Flat White with Soy Milk. Highly recommended.

Food was okay. But service was appalling. Was completly ignored by staff. Waited 20 minutes to order drinks and ordered food at the same time. Drinks took another 20 minutes to come. Our food was forgotten about and didn't come till the rest of our party (party of 8) had already finished their food. And when the food came it wasn't what we ordered. We had to go to the bar to get more drinks as they never came over. And then when I said I wasn't happy they only said they could take 10% off. Never got an apology for forgetting our food and giving the wrong items. Staff were rude and lazy. Will not be coming here again

Went here for a 50th birthday the staff were so kind and very professional. Many people at the bar but the staff were amazingly quick and the drinks were really tasty!!!

This spot was an amazingly lovely place to come for drinks although it is on the more expensive side. The atmosphere was enjoyable but very busy and you could tell the staff were feeling it! Saying that they all seemed to handle the pressure extremely well! The lad behind the bar (Cam(?)) was very good with drinks recommendations and the cocktails were delicious. We did get some fries however, they were a bit disappointing especially at their price I had higher expectations but they were nice enough. The bartender did seem to genuinely speak highly of the burgers and gave plenty of recommendations from the menu so will be coming back to give the food a second chance! All in all a good experience and do recommend as a good spot for a few drinks with mates.

Great spot for us to meet up with some friends! The team were welcoming and accommodating for us particularly because we had 2 buggies with us! Food selection was top drawer, really struggled to choose as it all sounded and looked so good! Food came pretty quick on a busy lunch and we were not disappointed! I like my craft beers and was very happy with a schooner or two of northern monk! Definitely want a return visit!

We luckily managed to get a table for 12 at Croxtons after our original booking at Southsea Village informed us they had ran out of food! However, we are so pleased with the last minute change because the food and service were amazing. The man the served us, sorry I didn’t get his name, was great and continuously checked in with us and getting us more drinks etc. Highly recommend ☺️

EXCELLENT! Friendly quick and attentive staff. Clean. Good selction of freshly WELL made food, and wide varity of drinks. Reccomended.

Wow, the food was amazing, full of flavour and plates piled high. I had a roast beef dinner, hubby had roast lamb dinner,and mum had roast pork dinner and they all tasted so good. You will definitely not go hungry here. The staff are friendly and really hard working. The atmosphere is banging. We will definitely come here again.l, and would highly recommend. Thank you everyone.

[Sunday roast] Leg of lamb was in fact brown pieces of incredibly tough and chewy meat, no leg/bone. Chicken was in fact a chicken leg on the bone. Quarter of an onion per plate (?). No gravy boat. Sticky floor. Hugely overpriced for the quality. Do not recommend.

Sadly very disappointing after visiting Croxtons for a fabulous French theme evening last year we had high hopes for the Sunday roast which weren’t met on any level. Plates were not hot, food tepid and one portion of beef was full of sinew and gristle it was inedible . We asked for extra gravy to try to warm the food . No one at any point asked us how our meal was. 20% discount was appreciated but by that point we agreed we would enjoy a few drinks and dessert elsewhere. Atmosphere would usually be 4/5 stars but having booked a restaurant table the server told us our table was in the bar area so basically we were bumped by a larger reservation who still hadn’t turned up when we left after 40 minutes. Such a shame we really wanted it to be good. Won’t recommend for a roast , maybe better if ordering dishes cooked to order ?

Steak was amazing and even better went on Wednesday when their reduced price offer is on. Good choice of drinks, would recommend booking as it gets busy!

We had a private party at Croxtons for my son's 30th birthday. The food was brilliant, staff and service amazing. Nothing was too much trouble and everyone had a fabulous time. I highly recommend this venue. Thank you Rufus and team.

Great food, Great service. Nice friendly staff.

Have wanted to visit and try based on lots of positive recommendations and suggestions, and we were not disappointed. Theres a brilliant atmosphere, casual or smart casual and great interior decor makes for a great venue for a bite and drinks. We went for the Thursday burger deal (buy 1 and get 2nd for £1), the classic and Korean fried chicken burgers and thoroughly recommend both. Chips are yummy and drinks are reasonably priced considering the saving on the food. There was a delay with a side we ordered (lovely Mac n' Cheese) and our server (who happens to be the manager) was really great about it, thank you! Top guy, really friendly and welcoming. Mid week deals are available and based on service and quality of food, we recommend Croxton's for a great place to go!

popped in off the cuff as walking by saw advertised "buy burger get 2nd for £1" it was nice not great, but nice, and note you have to pay for the extras that go with the 2nd £1 burger ie fries that said pleasant place and nice place to eat would try again

we had high hopes for this place. not really much to say about this place, i had the chicken burger and the batter it was in was burnt. my partner had the steak and that wasn't fantastic either, we both had a cocktail and it was nothing like id tasted before (disgusting) staff seemed like they are happy to do the bare minimum not rude or anything just not very attentive especially as it wasn't busy at all. like i say we had high hopes for this place we wont be visiting again

One of the best Sunday roasts I've ever had.

Came here for a work Christmas lunch. The menu choices were varied and imaginative, and the food was amazing. We were a large party - and all the food came out together, and was hot (something not all restaurants get right). I had the roasted celeriac and parsnip soup followed by baked cauliflower - and both were delicious (but rather large portions!). Unfortunately I am not local to the area otherwise this would be my go to restaurant for all occasions. Thank you to all the staff for making it a great day.

We had our Portsmouth Skate group here last night … after many Christmas meals out over the years that have been mediocre I was totally blown away by the quality of the food and the service. Good choices for us veggies, and so much veg. And plenty of extra roast potatoes. Absolutely epic Rufus and the team - thank you so much!!

Bloody brilliant food and service and good people... deffo commin back x

Awesome Christmas celebration. Fabulous service and great service from the whole staff. Thank you

It really satisfy me on Christmas meal, really nice big plates.

Amazing Christmas night, the staff were lovely and the food was great!

Top Christmas Dinner, very welcoming staff, 10/10 would do Christmas here again 👌

Here for a Christmas party with Portsmouth Skating Group. Hands down the best roast I have ever eaten! Absoloutely unreal. Also cater for gluten free. The staff are super lovey, the atmosphere is wonderful and I will definitely come back again! Thank you so much team at Croxtons!❤️

Great vibes, great food and amazing staff!

Came here with the Portsmouth Skating Group for our christmas meal. Hands down best roast I've had in a long time. Thank the lord for those yorkshires. Also really glad to see that they cater excellently for gluten free. 10/10 would recommend!

Went for Christmas Dinner with a large group, the food was amazing, plenty of food and very attentive staff. Lovely atmosphere and vibes! Recommend!

Wondering experience, amazing food and absolutely fantastic service 10/10

One of my fave places in Southsea. Food is always great, the vibe is always fun, the staff are always on it even when it’s super busy and they’re always friendly. Never have any complaints the food is always 10/10

Fantastic work Christmas lunch. Staff were very attentive. My starter was delicious, Brussels sprout and Shallot tart taking with whipped goats cheese. I had the baked cauliflower main. Everyone's meal looked delicious, and came out piping hot. Plenty of bowls of fresh veg and crispy roast potatos. Imaginative menu. Highly recommended.

Disappointing to discover on the midweek burger deal, the second burger doesn’t include fries, just the burger and fries charged as an extra. No where on the menu does it state this or the website. When I received the bill I definitely felt misled and so didn’t tip! Unfortunately not the staff fault so then felt mean but was annoyed at the owners for being greedy! Don’t mislead the customer, you lose goodwill over a £2.50 add on for a portion of chips, when I would have tipped more.

Amazing place! The food was incredible. All of the staff were fantastic and seemed to genuinely enjoy their job. I highly recommend this venue for a night out or to hire for a party.

We had our work Xmas party here on Friday and it was a great night - top food and drink in a really welcoming and friendly environment. Great work Team Croxtons - will be visiting again for sure

Amazing time at Croxtons, staff are lovely and the atmosphere even better!

Had our Christmas party here and it was great. Food was lovely!!

Great staff, great food and excellent mocktails! Really impressed with Croxtons!

We love Croxton's.. the food is great; Friday night DJ - awesome! ..but the best of it all is the wonderful host Zephra! Always welcomes us with the best smile, remembers our usual order and makes us laugh... it's like walking into the place of a great friend.. it just happens to be in a great "bar" :-)

Just home from a Christmas Menu lunch at Croxtons and the food was fabulous. From the gherkin ketchup with the ham hock terrine starter, through the large portion of delicious slow roasted turkey ballotine and crispy roasties for the main to the cherry blondie for pudding. The food was superbly cooked and the service was excellent. I would highly recommend a visit there for your festive fayre.

Visited croxtons for the new wine opening night. 3 course meal was delicious, the whole set menu was well thought out and executed well. Food is excellent along with the service, what more could you want! I have also been for a roast dinner before which I highly recommend! See you again soon Croxtons!