Latest reviews for Bars & Pubs in London, United Kingdom

The Hope - Perfect for a sunny day by Litro_K

Litro_K — Sun, 11 May 2008 23:39:09 +0000

Review by Litro_K

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 8672 8717

I've just spent the last two gloriously warm, sunny Sundays here and had to add it to the site. This pub was originally recommended to me by a friend because of their food, which is great, but I've since come to realise that The Hope has a lot more to offer besides.

It overlooks Wandsworth Common and is right across the bridge from the railway station, so it's very easy to find. As the pub faces the park, they're more than willing to give you your drinks in plastic cups to take to the common (I know, not very green, but a lovely idea on a hot day). They have an extensive range of beers on tap, including Fruli, one of my favourite summer tipples, as well as Staropramen, Peroni, Deuchars and other pale and real ales. They also have lots of board games scattered about the place - and in my experience, a pub with a decent Scrabble set is always a winner.

The food is aspirational and well-executed, considering the size of the tiny kitchen! I have never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes for it to arrive, either. Everything is served in immense white plate-bowls (v. technical term) giving a gastropub feel. Prices are very reasonable considering the type of restaurants and shops further up the road, which would explain how busy they are. Something they've recently introduced for the summer is that they will prepare picnic baskets of food, wine and all utensils for you if you order with a little advance notice. Given that the pub itself has been packed out for the last two weekends running and the gorgeous common beckons, this is something I'd like to try out very soon.

I haven't been here in the winter yet but I'd be very interested to keep coming back and see how it changes with the seasons. For now, with the excellent weather we've been having, I'd happily recommend it to anyone as a laid-back, suntrap of a weekend hangout.

I've just spent the last two gloriously warm, sunny Sundays here and had to add it to the site. This pub was originally recommended to me by a friend because of their food, which is great, but I've since come to realise that The Hope has a lot more to offer besides.

It overlooks Wandsworth Common and is right across the bridge from the railway station, so it's very easy to find. As the pub faces the park, they're more than willing to give you your drinks in plastic cups to take to the common (I know, not very green, but a lovely idea on a hot day). They have an extensive range of beers on tap, including Fruli, one of my favourite summer tipples, as well as Staropramen, Peroni, Deuchars and other pale and real ales. They also have lots of board games scattered about the place - and in my experience, a pub with a decent Scrabble set is always a winner.

The food is aspirational and well-executed, considering the size of the tiny kitchen! I have never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes for it to arrive, either. Everything is served in immense white plate-bowls (v. technical term) giving a gastropub feel. Prices are very reasonable considering the type of restaurants and shops further up the road, which would explain how busy they are. Something they've recently introduced for the summer is that they will prepare picnic baskets of food, wine and all utensils for you if you order with a little advance notice. Given that the pub itself has been packed out for the last two weekends running and the gorgeous common beckons, this is something I'd like to try out very soon.

I haven't been here in the winter yet but I'd be very interested to keep coming back and see how it changes with the seasons. For now, with the excellent weather we've been having, I'd happily recommend it to anyone as a laid-back, suntrap of a weekend hangout.

The Calf - Depends on what you're expecting... by mkdtw

mkdtw — Sun, 11 May 2008 11:59:57 +0000

Review by mkdtw

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7622 4019

Tags: relaxed, international, food

Amongst my friends, this pub would be rated fairly differently. At the positive end of the scale the venue has a great atmosphere, the dÃ©cor is kitted out in subtle lighting, rich colours, large oak tables, armchairs and comfy well worn sofas and tends to attract mixed groups of friends celebrating birthdays etc in the evenings or couples playing one of the board games from the stack at quieter times.

I personally like it here and will always remember it as the place where one of the bar staff recommended sweet-spicy 'Sailor Jerryâ¬"s' rum to me when I was a touch fed up with the taste JD and diet coke. And thatâ¬"s another of the positives, the wine and beer list is extensive and there are quirky little hand written chalkboard signs encouraging you to try the cider etc.

However, there are two major down sides, the place can sometimes become very very busy and unfortunately, the management seem to think its ok to struggle on with only 2 or 3 serving bar staff. This apparently also extends to the quality of the food and service which according to a couple of friends, who live around the corner, the quality isnâ¬"t the best and can take a long while to arrive.
Amongst my friends, this pub would be rated fairly differently. At the positive end of the scale the venue has a great atmosphere, the dÃ©cor is kitted out in subtle lighting, rich colours, large oak tables, armchairs and comfy well worn sofas and tends to attract mixed groups of friends celebrating birthdays etc in the evenings or couples playing one of the board games from the stack at quieter times.

I personally like it here and will always remember it as the place where one of the bar staff recommended sweet-spicy 'Sailor Jerryâ¬"s' rum to me when I was a touch fed up with the taste JD and diet coke. And thatâ¬"s another of the positives, the wine and beer list is extensive and there are quirky little hand written chalkboard signs encouraging you to try the cider etc.

However, there are two major down sides, the place can sometimes become very very busy and unfortunately, the management seem to think its ok to struggle on with only 2 or 3 serving bar staff. This apparently also extends to the quality of the food and service which according to a couple of friends, who live around the corner, the quality isnâ¬"t the best and can take a long while to arrive.

The Elgin - Tasty Bar! by jonsnow

jonsnow — Fri, 09 May 2008 17:57:00 +0000

Review by jonsnow

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7624 2602

Website: http://www.the-elgin.com

Tags: live music, cool, good food

This place is great. I come here a couple of times a week. Its great for Breakfast and coffee (nice cookies on offer at the moment), a quick snack after work and getting a gut full on a friday. DJ plays once or twice a month on a friday.

I found out it had A dining room/lounge upstairs. Nice and chilled for a more intemate evening. Food wasn't bad either!

It looks really shabby from the outside but who looks after a couple!This place is great. I come here a couple of times a week. Its great for Breakfast and coffee (nice cookies on offer at the moment), a quick snack after work and getting a gut full on a friday. DJ plays once or twice a month on a friday.

I found out it had A dining room/lounge upstairs. Nice and chilled for a more intemate evening. Food wasn't bad either!

It looks really shabby from the outside but who looks after a couple!

The Lamb - Shocking by greedoe

greedoe — Fri, 09 May 2008 14:36:53 +0000

Review by greedoe

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7405 0713

Website: http://www.youngs.co.uk

Tags: traditional pub, food, great atmosphere

Had probably the worst pub experience for a long while here.

They decided about 15 minutes after we placed our order that the kitchen was backed up. Thus, instead of getting our lunch in a timely manner we got one meal quickly and then waited about 30 minutes for the rest.

The fish was bland, tasted like frozen and was sent back. The burgers were burnt, and nuclear hot in the middle.

Bad, just bad.Had probably the worst pub experience for a long while here.

They decided about 15 minutes after we placed our order that the kitchen was backed up. Thus, instead of getting our lunch in a timely manner we got one meal quickly and then waited about 30 minutes for the rest.

The fish was bland, tasted like frozen and was sent back. The burgers were burnt, and nuclear hot in the middle.

Bad, just bad.

Slaughtered Lamb - Rudest service in London by jameshaycock

jameshaycock — Fri, 09 May 2008 09:35:17 +0000

Review by jameshaycock

Rating: 1.00

Phone: 020 7253 1516

Website: http://www.theslaughteredlambpub.co.uk/index.asp

Tags: live music, relaxed, cool

Despite being quite a decent looking venue, I personally wouldnt take a date here due to the rude staff.

I was short changed by the barman when having a drink in the pub last night. I didnt notice for a couple of minutes and when I did the staff just were not interested. I was told I was â¬Übarking up the wrong treeâ¬" and that they didnt care. The silly thing was that I was about to order food for a couple of people. I explained that I now wouldnt be ordering the food and again I was told that they didnt care.

This response really angered me and I will be telling as many people as I can to avoid this place.Despite being quite a decent looking venue, I personally wouldnt take a date here due to the rude staff.

I was short changed by the barman when having a drink in the pub last night. I didnt notice for a couple of minutes and when I did the staff just were not interested. I was told I was â¬Übarking up the wrong treeâ¬" and that they didnt care. The silly thing was that I was about to order food for a couple of people. I explained that I now wouldnt be ordering the food and again I was told that they didnt care.

This response really angered me and I will be telling as many people as I can to avoid this place.

The Brown Dog - brilliant local by Corky

Corky — Wed, 07 May 2008 08:47:23 +0000

Review by Corky

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 8392 2000

Website: http://www.thebrowndog.co.uk/

Tags: gastro pub, beer garden, relaxed

This is my local, so I have a slight interest, but I'm never disappointed with a visit here. My wife tries to persuade me to visit one of the many alternatives in Barnes, but there's no place like it for a relaxed Sunday lunch.

Top notch!This is my local, so I have a slight interest, but I'm never disappointed with a visit here. My wife tries to persuade me to visit one of the many alternatives in Barnes, but there's no place like it for a relaxed Sunday lunch.

Top notch!

The Black Lion - Gorgeous pub tucked away on the Kilburn High Rd by Niamheen

Niamheen — Tue, 06 May 2008 12:00:29 +0000

Review by Niamheen

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7624 1520

Tags: cool, friendly, gastro pub

Kilburn, like so many other London areas, is going through the much maligned or lauded gentrification process - depending on which local resident you speak to. The Black Lion is one pub that has benefitted from this. Previously an old irish pub, it has been refurbished but it's character has been retained.

Bright and spacious with gorgeous high ceilings (believe me, they're worth a mention), it's lovely for a few drinks. Decent pub grub - sausages and mash, burgers, that kind of thing. There's an attached dining room, although, the food isn't amazing, it's a good filler of an evening. I've often wished that they would just declare it all a pub and if you want to eat, you can.

There's a guesthouse upstairs which friends and family have stayed at, it used to be better I must admit. The Good Ship across the road tends to be very noisy and it's not as friendly as it used to be, but, it's reasonably priced and well located.

Go for the pub and if you're hungry whilst there, the grub. You won't be disappointed. Kilburn, like so many other London areas, is going through the much maligned or lauded gentrification process - depending on which local resident you speak to. The Black Lion is one pub that has benefitted from this. Previously an old irish pub, it has been refurbished but it's character has been retained.

Bright and spacious with gorgeous high ceilings (believe me, they're worth a mention), it's lovely for a few drinks. Decent pub grub - sausages and mash, burgers, that kind of thing. There's an attached dining room, although, the food isn't amazing, it's a good filler of an evening. I've often wished that they would just declare it all a pub and if you want to eat, you can.

There's a guesthouse upstairs which friends and family have stayed at, it used to be better I must admit. The Good Ship across the road tends to be very noisy and it's not as friendly as it used to be, but, it's reasonably priced and well located.

Go for the pub and if you're hungry whilst there, the grub. You won't be disappointed.

The Plumtree - A good value friendly bar/food place by Brodule

Brodule — Mon, 05 May 2008 06:31:50 +0000

Review by Brodule

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7353 8404

Tags: relaxed, independent pub, friendly

An interesting looking bar in a listed building. Has 3 areas.
Very friendly staff, above average food and wine, with the winelist being much more interesting than expected and modestly priced.

Free WiFi & were happy to serve a coffee while someone surfed away.An interesting looking bar in a listed building. Has 3 areas.
Very friendly staff, above average food and wine, with the winelist being much more interesting than expected and modestly priced.

Free WiFi & were happy to serve a coffee while someone surfed away.

The Churchill Arms - Deservedly popular for both food and drink by oogywawa

oogywawa — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 15:34:14 +0000

Review by oogywawa

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7792 1246

Website: http://www.fullers.co.uk

Tags: thai, traditional pub, excellent pub food

This pub reminds you of the terrific effect that a good host can have on an establishment. I popped in there whilst walking down to Kensington High St and left over 2 hours later! Not short of a word or a joke, Gerry the Irish landlord ensures that all goes swimmingly whilst bustling around serving pristine pints of "London Pride" and taking plates of Thai to tables in the back.

Noted for its Thai food this pub comes up trumps on the Drink stakes as well and the pub has morphed neatly into an Irish Tavern with all its assorted paraphenalia hanging from the ceiling or nailed to walls as in the old newspaper cuttings, Guinness signs or all the British Prime Minister's from Walpole onwards.

A lovely, bustling and welcoming pub...This pub reminds you of the terrific effect that a good host can have on an establishment. I popped in there whilst walking down to Kensington High St and left over 2 hours later! Not short of a word or a joke, Gerry the Irish landlord ensures that all goes swimmingly whilst bustling around serving pristine pints of "London Pride" and taking plates of Thai to tables in the back.

Noted for its Thai food this pub comes up trumps on the Drink stakes as well and the pub has morphed neatly into an Irish Tavern with all its assorted paraphenalia hanging from the ceiling or nailed to walls as in the old newspaper cuttings, Guinness signs or all the British Prime Minister's from Walpole onwards.

A lovely, bustling and welcoming pub...

The Porterhouse - Cavernous, great beer, great atmosphere by oogywawa

oogywawa — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 12:43:07 +0000

Review by oogywawa

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7379 7917

Website: http://www.porterhousebrewco.com

Tags: live music, friendly, live

I always make a point of heading to Porterhouse when in the Capital. You always know what you are going to get in this megaladon of a pub. More bars than you care to explore swallow up as many punters as can fit in and it still manages to retain a certain intimacy with it's low lighting and phenomenal array of 200+ bottles & home brewed draught ales, porters and lagers. The "Wrasslers" Stout was voted by the late lamented Beer Hunter Michael Jackson as the world's best and who would disagree. It makes Guiness look like a sickly, pasty faced child compared to its Falstaffian body and depth.

There is regularly live music and all this adds to the wonderfully Irish laid back atmosphere of probably the best pub in the Covent Garden area. The one in Temple Bar, Dublin though smaller is as good and enough off the beaten track to avoid most of the witless stag do's...I always make a point of heading to Porterhouse when in the Capital. You always know what you are going to get in this megaladon of a pub. More bars than you care to explore swallow up as many punters as can fit in and it still manages to retain a certain intimacy with it's low lighting and phenomenal array of 200+ bottles & home brewed draught ales, porters and lagers. The "Wrasslers" Stout was voted by the late lamented Beer Hunter Michael Jackson as the world's best and who would disagree. It makes Guiness look like a sickly, pasty faced child compared to its Falstaffian body and depth.

There is regularly live music and all this adds to the wonderfully Irish laid back atmosphere of probably the best pub in the Covent Garden area. The one in Temple Bar, Dublin though smaller is as good and enough off the beaten track to avoid most of the witless stag do's...

The Holly Bush - Super-pie in a Super-pub by sokratis

sokratis — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:35:05 +0000

Review by sokratis

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7435 2892

Website: http://www.hollybushpub.com/

Tags: traditional pub, relaxed, food

Maybe Iâ¬"m being influenced by having watched Superbad very recently, but the superlatives are justified in this case. The Holly Bush is one of those â¬Üthey donâ¬"t make them like they used toâ¬" kind of places you rarely encounter in London anymore (says I, the old-Londoner who grew up on the cobbled streets of Whitechapel!). Itâ¬"s a pub in the proper sense on the word.
No music. No fruit machines. No shiny, â¬ÜSlug & Lettuceâ¬"-type surfaces and silly prints on the wall.
Solid selection of beers and ales (unfortunately no Bombardier). No-nonsense, friendly staff. Unique ability to distort time and keep you there until closing.
It really is one of those places you can go with friends and spend hours getting merrier as the time passes by, setting the world to rights, recounting old stories and generally doing what friends do.
The pies that are mentioned in the title deserve a special mention. They are the specialty of the house and Iâ¬"m confident the Organic Beef and Harveyâ¬"s served with Cheddar mash is one the best youâ¬"ve ever tried. At Â£9.50 itâ¬"s reasonably priced as well. The rest of the menu is excellent too, with the burger and roast chicken being a couple of my favourites and the bread and butter pudding an amazing dessert. The menu seems to have been set in stone there, but why mess with something that works so well? Iâ¬"ve probably eaten or sampled every item in it and nothing was short of really good, going all the way to the superb. There is a cosy, beautiful dining room on the first floor and I recommend you book if youâ¬"d like to eat as the pub floor gets very busy.
Youâ¬"ve probably worked out that this is probably my favourite pub in London. Itâ¬"s also tucked away from public view so you really have to look for it to find it, but trust me itâ¬"s worth a detour or even a special trip.
Maybe Iâ¬"m being influenced by having watched Superbad very recently, but the superlatives are justified in this case. The Holly Bush is one of those â¬Üthey donâ¬"t make them like they used toâ¬" kind of places you rarely encounter in London anymore (says I, the old-Londoner who grew up on the cobbled streets of Whitechapel!). Itâ¬"s a pub in the proper sense on the word.
No music. No fruit machines. No shiny, â¬ÜSlug & Lettuceâ¬"-type surfaces and silly prints on the wall.
Solid selection of beers and ales (unfortunately no Bombardier). No-nonsense, friendly staff. Unique ability to distort time and keep you there until closing.
It really is one of those places you can go with friends and spend hours getting merrier as the time passes by, setting the world to rights, recounting old stories and generally doing what friends do.
The pies that are mentioned in the title deserve a special mention. They are the specialty of the house and Iâ¬"m confident the Organic Beef and Harveyâ¬"s served with Cheddar mash is one the best youâ¬"ve ever tried. At Â£9.50 itâ¬"s reasonably priced as well. The rest of the menu is excellent too, with the burger and roast chicken being a couple of my favourites and the bread and butter pudding an amazing dessert. The menu seems to have been set in stone there, but why mess with something that works so well? Iâ¬"ve probably eaten or sampled every item in it and nothing was short of really good, going all the way to the superb. There is a cosy, beautiful dining room on the first floor and I recommend you book if youâ¬"d like to eat as the pub floor gets very busy.
Youâ¬"ve probably worked out that this is probably my favourite pub in London. Itâ¬"s also tucked away from public view so you really have to look for it to find it, but trust me itâ¬"s worth a detour or even a special trip.

The Freemasons Arms - Great Post-Heath option by sokratis

sokratis — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 03:16:40 +0000

Review by sokratis

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7433 6811

Website: http://www.freemasonsarms.co.uk/

Tags: relaxed, traditional, food

The Freemasons Arms is a great ending to a nice day in Hampsted Heath if youâ¬"re finishing on the south-west (if youâ¬"re heading north-east then Cafe Mozart on Swains Lane is a excellent option too). Very spacious and with a modern, slick finish it serves a variety of beers and ciders. One of the best outdoor spaces in the area and a great kitchen that serves what youâ¬"d expect by the â¬ÜWinner of the Sunday Independent/ LBC Gastro Pub of the Year!â¬". Be prepared to wait for a table on a sunny Sunday afternoon as the place gets very busy. Of course be also prepared to be surrounded by yummy mummies, Â£500+ baby carts, noisy small children and generally the rest of the Sunday family squad that descends on Hampsteadâ¬"s surrounding areas on a weekend.
Donâ¬"t let that put you off though. The Freemasons is still one of the best places to enjoy a drink and a bite after a hard days navigating the heights of the Heath.
The Freemasons Arms is a great ending to a nice day in Hampsted Heath if youâ¬"re finishing on the south-west (if youâ¬"re heading north-east then Cafe Mozart on Swains Lane is a excellent option too). Very spacious and with a modern, slick finish it serves a variety of beers and ciders. One of the best outdoor spaces in the area and a great kitchen that serves what youâ¬"d expect by the â¬ÜWinner of the Sunday Independent/ LBC Gastro Pub of the Year!â¬". Be prepared to wait for a table on a sunny Sunday afternoon as the place gets very busy. Of course be also prepared to be surrounded by yummy mummies, Â£500+ baby carts, noisy small children and generally the rest of the Sunday family squad that descends on Hampsteadâ¬"s surrounding areas on a weekend.
Donâ¬"t let that put you off though. The Freemasons is still one of the best places to enjoy a drink and a bite after a hard days navigating the heights of the Heath.

The Grenadier - (Really) hidden gem of a pub by Hugo

Hugo — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 20:23:49 +0000

Review by Hugo

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 7235 3074

Tags: food, hidden, traditional pub

Want a pub to show johnny-foreigner what a proper British pub is all about? Take your friends from overseas to The Grenadier and I think they will get the picture.

The Grenadier is ridiculously hidden away down a small private road just off Belgrave Square. Even with a map in my hand I stood at the entrance to the small cobbled lane thinking, well it can't be down here, how can my map be so wrong.

The beer is good and you can stand out on the street (they give you a plastic glass).

Part of me isn't too happy to share the knowledge of this pub with everyone because it is a hidden treasure trove and more to the point it isn't very big. After reading this review you really should reciprocate with your hidden treasures too!

Want a pub to show johnny-foreigner what a proper British pub is all about? Take your friends from overseas to The Grenadier and I think they will get the picture.

The Grenadier is ridiculously hidden away down a small private road just off Belgrave Square. Even with a map in my hand I stood at the entrance to the small cobbled lane thinking, well it can't be down here, how can my map be so wrong.

The beer is good and you can stand out on the street (they give you a plastic glass).

Part of me isn't too happy to share the knowledge of this pub with everyone because it is a hidden treasure trove and more to the point it isn't very big. After reading this review you really should reciprocate with your hidden treasures too!

The Prince Alfred - Loving the Prince Alfred by sue

sue — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 19:11:43 +0000

Review by sue

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7286 3287

Tags: friendly, gastro pub, relaxed

Looking for a drink close to Warwick Avenue tube, we stumbled upon the Prince Alfred and fell in love. This Grade II listed pub has a stunning interior, with five snugs breaking up the room with their carved wooden partitions and curious little doors. Loved the carved ceiling and friendly staff too.

There is a large dining area to the rear (the Formosa Dining Room) which I am sure is popular with the locals, though on this occasion we were eating elsewhere so didn't pay it much attention.

We scored a great table in one of the front snugs and enjoyed a cold one while catching up on the news of the day. I really wish the Prince Alfred was a little closer to home, but next time I am in this neck of the woods a return visit will be top of the to-do list.
Looking for a drink close to Warwick Avenue tube, we stumbled upon the Prince Alfred and fell in love. This Grade II listed pub has a stunning interior, with five snugs breaking up the room with their carved wooden partitions and curious little doors. Loved the carved ceiling and friendly staff too.

There is a large dining area to the rear (the Formosa Dining Room) which I am sure is popular with the locals, though on this occasion we were eating elsewhere so didn't pay it much attention.

We scored a great table in one of the front snugs and enjoyed a cold one while catching up on the news of the day. I really wish the Prince Alfred was a little closer to home, but next time I am in this neck of the woods a return visit will be top of the to-do list.

The Dolphin - Hackney craziness by sokratis

sokratis — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 01:43:09 +0000

Review by sokratis

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 8985 3727

Tags: friendly, underground, trendy

How does one begin to describe the Dolphin? Is it a pub or is it a club? It looks like a pub, works like a pub and smells like a pub, but then again itâ¬"s open until 5am on Saturdays, which makes it fall under the club category. Oh well, Iâ¬"ll leave semantics aside and go for the club version.
Located in Hackney, itâ¬"s a magnet for all of East Londonâ¬"s trendies who are still yearning for some entertainment after most places in Shoreditch shut down at 2am. You will find probably the highest concentration of skinny genes per capita in the world, along with funny haircuts, moustaches, shiny shell-suits, trench coats, white shoes, golden shoes and all the other hallmarks of the â¬ÜIâ¬"m so cool and creative in my self-expressionâ¬" uniform of the East London hipsterati.
A drink will cost you Â£3 and the atmosphere is very friendly and party oriented. Apparently the Karaoke nights are legendary, but not on when I went. Instead we went through a vibrant mix of cheese, hip-hop, dance pop and occasional Gypsy Kings thrown in for good measure.
Not a place for the easily offended or swank-loving professional crowd, but an interesting night out that Iâ¬"d recommend you try once - if only for the novelty factor alone.
How does one begin to describe the Dolphin? Is it a pub or is it a club? It looks like a pub, works like a pub and smells like a pub, but then again itâ¬"s open until 5am on Saturdays, which makes it fall under the club category. Oh well, Iâ¬"ll leave semantics aside and go for the club version.
Located in Hackney, itâ¬"s a magnet for all of East Londonâ¬"s trendies who are still yearning for some entertainment after most places in Shoreditch shut down at 2am. You will find probably the highest concentration of skinny genes per capita in the world, along with funny haircuts, moustaches, shiny shell-suits, trench coats, white shoes, golden shoes and all the other hallmarks of the â¬ÜIâ¬"m so cool and creative in my self-expressionâ¬" uniform of the East London hipsterati.
A drink will cost you Â£3 and the atmosphere is very friendly and party oriented. Apparently the Karaoke nights are legendary, but not on when I went. Instead we went through a vibrant mix of cheese, hip-hop, dance pop and occasional Gypsy Kings thrown in for good measure.
Not a place for the easily offended or swank-loving professional crowd, but an interesting night out that Iâ¬"d recommend you try once - if only for the novelty factor alone.

The Chapel - Disappointing, but we'll give it a second chance by Browners

Browners — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 17:32:44 +0000

Review by Browners

Rating: 2.00

Phone: 020 7402 9220

Tags: relaxed, friendly, food

Just a quick review of The Chapel pub near Edgeware Road Tube Station...

It's a well run pub with an exciting food menu featuring some modern pub classics like rib eye steak, fish cakes and grilled chicken. This is bolstered by some more unusual offerings such as grilled ostrich with a mango, ginger and chili dressing. The most startling side of the menu however, is the lack of both burgers and chips... a very good thing indeed! Even though I did have an insatiable desire to wolf down a cheese burger and chips on a slow Friday afternoon!

Oi and I had the grilled ostrich which was beautifully rare. Unfortunately, the meat was tough and fibrous. Not the tender piece of meat we were expecting. It was chewy and disappointing as a piece of meat. A real shame because the rest of the dish was fabulous. We probably should have played safe with the rib eye!

I watched the two, young and energetic chefs at work. The quality of their presentation and flavour combinations were very impressive. I suspect that they were just let down by the quality of their meat. We'll give them a second chance at some point soon to try the rest of their menu out. But another blunder and we won't return. There are loads of other places in the area to go to instead.Just a quick review of The Chapel pub near Edgeware Road Tube Station...

It's a well run pub with an exciting food menu featuring some modern pub classics like rib eye steak, fish cakes and grilled chicken. This is bolstered by some more unusual offerings such as grilled ostrich with a mango, ginger and chili dressing. The most startling side of the menu however, is the lack of both burgers and chips... a very good thing indeed! Even though I did have an insatiable desire to wolf down a cheese burger and chips on a slow Friday afternoon!

Oi and I had the grilled ostrich which was beautifully rare. Unfortunately, the meat was tough and fibrous. Not the tender piece of meat we were expecting. It was chewy and disappointing as a piece of meat. A real shame because the rest of the dish was fabulous. We probably should have played safe with the rib eye!

I watched the two, young and energetic chefs at work. The quality of their presentation and flavour combinations were very impressive. I suspect that they were just let down by the quality of their meat. We'll give them a second chance at some point soon to try the rest of their menu out. But another blunder and we won't return. There are loads of other places in the area to go to instead.

Strawberry Moons - Pole Dancing Paradise! by Philippe

Philippe — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 01:30:21 +0000

Review by Philippe

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7437 7300

Website: http://www.strawberrymoons.co.uk/

Tags: friendly, cocktails, club

Went to Strawberry Moons a few weeks ago with some friends - dance floor was absolutely packed...so ended up on stage...under the spotlight...on the pole...again!
Second visit this year - until 2008 haven't been there for about 5 years or more. Even more lively than I recall, everyone out for a good time, very friendly.
I even got chatted up by one of the Shot Girls - yow!Went to Strawberry Moons a few weeks ago with some friends - dance floor was absolutely packed...so ended up on stage...under the spotlight...on the pole...again!
Second visit this year - until 2008 haven't been there for about 5 years or more. Even more lively than I recall, everyone out for a good time, very friendly.
I even got chatted up by one of the Shot Girls - yow!

Mahiki - Stop your whingeing! by Philippe

Philippe — Sat, 26 Apr 2008 01:02:44 +0000

Review by Philippe

Rating: 4.00

Phone: 020 7493 9529

Website: http://www.mahiki.com

Tags: sexy, pop, posh

Oh dear, oh my, were the drinks pricey in a MAYFAIR CELEB HANGOUT?
Guys - what do you expect?
Took a bunch of people there last Saturday - had a great night (OK - I WAS dancing with 4 girls, and I DID get some admiring looks!!), but my group all seemed to have fun.
OK - the decor might seem a bit dated after a few visits. SO DON'T GO THERE ALL THE TIME. It was my first visit but it looked like it didn't take itself too seriously. The bar AND door staff were all very friendly, and since my group (mostly) paid attention & met there early, most of us only queued for 10 minutes & got in for free.
The staff in the main bar area warned that there would be a wait for an available table - but my group found an empty one & claimed it without any fuss & ordered drinks. Downstairs in the club the seating was definitely reserved & we were later shooed off seating there - so we just hit the dance floor!
The crowd were fairly young (for ME - that's anyone under 40!)but everyone seemed up for a good laugh (Even the WAG wannabees!). Dance floor is fairly small but we managed to have a good boogie all night - some good mixes.
Definitely go again - after a few months!Oh dear, oh my, were the drinks pricey in a MAYFAIR CELEB HANGOUT?
Guys - what do you expect?
Took a bunch of people there last Saturday - had a great night (OK - I WAS dancing with 4 girls, and I DID get some admiring looks!!), but my group all seemed to have fun.
OK - the decor might seem a bit dated after a few visits. SO DON'T GO THERE ALL THE TIME. It was my first visit but it looked like it didn't take itself too seriously. The bar AND door staff were all very friendly, and since my group (mostly) paid attention & met there early, most of us only queued for 10 minutes & got in for free.
The staff in the main bar area warned that there would be a wait for an available table - but my group found an empty one & claimed it without any fuss & ordered drinks. Downstairs in the club the seating was definitely reserved & we were later shooed off seating there - so we just hit the dance floor!
The crowd were fairly young (for ME - that's anyone under 40!)but everyone seemed up for a good laugh (Even the WAG wannabees!). Dance floor is fairly small but we managed to have a good boogie all night - some good mixes.
Definitely go again - after a few months!

The Bishop - Pooching Around by londonpup

londonpup — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 15:03:17 +0000

Review by londonpup

Rating: 5.00

Phone: 020 8693 3994

Tags: relaxed, chilled, friendly

I was taken to The Bishop last weekend for the first time and was quite impressed. My owner was meeting some friends there to show me off (it isn't long since I got my shots and was able to start going out so she's still in that excitable stage I suppose!) and we spent a most enjoyable couple of hours sitting outside while they all caught up.

I found the wooden benches quite pleasant; smooth and wide enough for me to lie down comfortably. I was glad as I didn't much like the look of the pavement - why do humans throw so much crap on the floor? The bar staff smiled at me and patted me on the head as they collected glasses, but frustratingly, neither me or my owner realised just how dog-friendly this pub is - we've since discovered we'd have been perfectly welcome inside!! One can never assume such things but we'll be asking around a lot more now - after all, even a puppy has a hectic social calendar these days.I was taken to The Bishop last weekend for the first time and was quite impressed. My owner was meeting some friends there to show me off (it isn't long since I got my shots and was able to start going out so she's still in that excitable stage I suppose!) and we spent a most enjoyable couple of hours sitting outside while they all caught up.

I found the wooden benches quite pleasant; smooth and wide enough for me to lie down comfortably. I was glad as I didn't much like the look of the pavement - why do humans throw so much crap on the floor? The bar staff smiled at me and patted me on the head as they collected glasses, but frustratingly, neither me or my owner realised just how dog-friendly this pub is - we've since discovered we'd have been perfectly welcome inside!! One can never assume such things but we'll be asking around a lot more now - after all, even a puppy has a hectic social calendar these days.

St. Stephens Tavern - Handy pub with nice atmosphere by Boatfanatic

Boatfanatic — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 12:07:03 +0000

Review by Boatfanatic

Rating: 3.00

Phone: 020 7925 2286

Tags: relaxed, real ale, food

Here's a place you can eat and drink right at the heart of Westminster just across the road from the Houses of Parliament. We met for a business meeting and people chose a range of different dishes - fish and chips, ham, egg and chips and I chose potato wedges with mushrooms, tomatoes, onions and melted cheese - this was served with a garnish of fresh salad and was quite frankly yummy. This and my drink came to around Â£5.50 - wow - how cool is it to be able to go and eat in Central London and not get ripped off! Very good value for money. The waiter looked a little confused between orders and tables, but he was pleasant and happy to help and we didn't have to wait too long for our food.

Down sides - not a lot of room. Up side - good air conditioning so it was restful and relaxing and you weren't struggling with feeling stifled. Would definitely go there again. Here's a place you can eat and drink right at the heart of Westminster just across the road from the Houses of Parliament. We met for a business meeting and people chose a range of different dishes - fish and chips, ham, egg and chips and I chose potato wedges with mushrooms, tomatoes, onions and melted cheese - this was served with a garnish of fresh salad and was quite frankly yummy. This and my drink came to around Â£5.50 - wow - how cool is it to be able to go and eat in Central London and not get ripped off! Very good value for money. The waiter looked a little confused between orders and tables, but he was pleasant and happy to help and we didn't have to wait too long for our food.

Down sides - not a lot of room. Up side - good air conditioning so it was restful and relaxing and you weren't struggling with feeling stifled. Would definitely go there again.