The Earl of Essex, Islington

Much improved from it's last incarnation and much better after a light touch refurb left the old bar and fixtures in place. It's still feels like a back street local but has a definite Hoxton vibe to it now. Although it does a range of food it doesn't feel like eating is the main event and consequently it has the vibe of a 'proper' pub and not a Gastro. The beer was cracking - well kept and a good range of cask and keg. The Tiny Rebel on cask and the Thornbridge/Odells collaboration were particularly good. If the beer range continues to be this good it's going to be a favourite. Oh, and they are starting to brew their own beer shortly.

13 Jul 2012 17:02

The North Pole, Islington

A welcome addition to the sudden splurge of decent pubs in this area of London - also see the recently re-opened Earl of Essex in Danbury St. More Gastropub than pub but a good clutch of decent beers were on cask and keg and the seating is comfortable - it's a pleasant place to while away an afternoon. There's an open kitchen in the main area of the pub and alcoves to skulk in. All in all a decent boozer.

13 Jul 2012 16:53

The Wenlock Arms, Hoxton

Wenlock resurgent!

Re-opens Tues 10/4 at 4pm - quotation from yesterday by John B the new cellarman: '11 beers in cellar now, more coming tomorrow. Same beer range, same live music, same quiz. Don't expect too many ticks until we get going - with emergency orders, we're just getting what we can. Only downside is that I'll be cellarman.'

Planned opening hours - Tue-Thu 4-12; Fri 4-1; Sat 12-1; Sun 12-12. Mon closed

5 Apr 2012 08:31