Union Jack’s British Pub of Ballston (Arlington, VA)

On entry an unexciting, nondescript, even slightly dingy joint located in Ballston Common Mall, Union Jack’s fails to deliver the sort of energy I anticipated.  Food and tap are so-so – in other words, as bland as UJ’s atmosphere.  A decent but not remarkable beer selection delivered by overworked, unexceptional wait staff possessing minimal knowledge of anything they serve.

The one standout item on the menu is the Spotted Dick.  Outside a consistency which made it a tad rubbery (read: nuked), the sauce and the cake share space with a sauce that was more caramel in texture and color than the custard of a conventional spotty.  The taste of it, however well surpassed conventional and kept me coming back for more bites.

Perhaps dining next door at the predicatable, solid Rock Bottom and moving to Union Jack’s or dessert is your best bet.