please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
Has closed and is being knocked down
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The windows are now being bricked up. Sad sight.
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Sad to see it go.
Problem was Steve (manager) wanted rid of this pub for 6 years, his wish has now been granted, at everyone else's cost
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Well that's it....
Thanks Rob, Ant, Dani and all the other staff who looked after us over the past few years, it was great while it lasted, just a pity that the evening was hijacked by a crowd of numb-nuts, in spite of whom we enjoyed ourselves. Anyway thanks again guys.
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This is the end
Beautiful friend
This is the end
My only friend, the end
Of our elaborate plans, the end
Of everything that stands, the end
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Last chance to drink, one night only,,,
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Sad too see in my local Paper this Pub will be closing for good on 19th March Only to be replaced with yet another over development of flats. Ive had many of good Pints in this Pub over the years going right back too around 1976 which was the first time I went there was when my Brother was working at Maynard's just up the road. Seems unbelievable it was 35 years ago Now theres not a decent Pub left in the area and they call this progress.
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Sad to see the Oakdale is going to close, will be sorely missed, only proper pub in N4, thanks Rob and the crew....
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"It will not only be a sad day when they knock the Oakdale down, but shameless cultural vandalism at that. By the way, does anyone know what day that is, as I would like to get down to London for one final visit if I can?
eJasminde - 13 Aug 2010 16:16 " ~~~
Sadly I can confirm a set date now for the Pubs Last Day:
Saturday 19th March 2011
Its Heartbreaking to say Goodbye to the old place after so long but we aim to see the last day out with a bang!.
Everyone is welcome back regardless, no probs at all,
(we still cater to making each visit as laid-back & comfortable for you as we can).
The Oakdale has always been far more than just a Pub, by means of a home for All of Us & the surrounding community, a social key to the surrounding area.
We've had some great years since 2003 & memorable times that wont be forgotten.
Our Heart-felt thanks to everyone who supported the pub for so long, & We're Sorry we cant go on any longer but we lasted as long as we could before the final developers plans were recently made official.
Its been a pleasure to serve, meet & socialise with everyone & to our regulars we found ourselves more than just customers on the other side of the bar,..but a second family that we've all come to know & love.
It will be upsetting to say goodbye to so many faces that are as close to us as blood now, let alone having to lose the Pub that sociably became a landmark home for everyone.
" End of an Era"....
Well we're open everyday til' our last for buisiness as usual & will still be hosting our regular thursday evening quiz night at approx:@ 8.15pm weekly ~ Still Free To Enter!
Cash Prizes for top 3 & worth a Laugh & a Real Garden Fire.
The Lizards are Still Very Friendly.
Relaxed as ever (not lowering standards now).
I dont know what else to say.....
No future plans set out for any of us as yet here but we'll advise if anything changes.
Lost for words...
(mr.toes.5_ ~ I remember your disgust to people enjoying themselves to loudly neart your table but Socialising with friends in a pub is what most people arrange to meet there for & its half the reason for coming out?....maybe you should try it!...with friends!)
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This pub is scheduled to close in November, but it's not worth a visit , just let it die in peace.
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I have been visiting the Oakdale infrequently since about 2005. Back then I thought it was an incredible place, not only for the immense range of beers (Milton-heavy, but so what) but also for the quirkiness and the welcome distractions that range from giant jenga to Viz annuals. In the meantime, the range of beers has diminished to a solitary pump, but everything else about the pub is still just as appealing. It will not only be a sad day when they knock the Oakdale down, but shameless cultural vandalism at that. By the way, does anyone know what day that is, as I would like to get down to London for one final visit if I can?
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persisting in serving good beer till the end!
still going but not for long.
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Is Ladnewton the only one in the country who still drinks there? Well, Lad make the most of it cos its being buldozed in three months time :-(
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Very enjoyable session here on 23rd Feb. While the pub was not crowded out, there were plenty more drinkers in than at my last visit of May 2009.
Noted there were only 4 handpumps, two in use this time (Milton Pegasus and Banks & Taylor Golden Dragon, both well kept). I am told the owner has requisitioned the "missing" pumps for a new pub in Cambridge.
Music was at a much more comfortable level, and conversation ruled on Tuesday night. On top of this everyone in the pub seemed chilled and relaxed, making for a welcoming atmosphere. The lizards are all doing fine and the pub is otherwise unchanged.
While it is a shame to have lost half a dozen or so handpumps, Rob and the team are doing a good job in keeping a decent pint and running the Oakdale "business as usual" despite its precarious future. It is still worth visiting, and hopefully it is here for a little longer yet.
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Total change since last here in "06" popped in for one last week as in the location. Only 1 real ale on (miltons) and more staff than punters. What happened to the keen management and all those plans to do up the pub?
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Excellent beer - the Dionysus is quenching and drinks above its volume. Scruffy but relaxed feel to the place.
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This place is sweet, I like the prices a lot (obviously) but I was here for a pub quiz and I saw some man with an iphone out, clearly cheating, I left before the end because I thought there was no chance, duno if he was spotted, anyone else notice stuff like this? Really gets my goat!
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This review follows a visit to the Oakdale Arms last night (20th) and reflects my personal experiences in the pub on this session.
Arrived 2100, most patrons were assembled round the bar. I was quickly introduced to the pub's latest acquisitions, namely a pair of lizards in a delightfully colourful tank, and an aquarium.
The music from the jukebox, referred to in commentaries below, was actually very quiet last night affording a relaxed atmosphere in the pub. It was generally a "fun" night with jokes exchanged across the bar, and my friend with mild learning difficulties was treated with kindness and respect by all.
Visitors to the Oakdale should note that snacks such as crisps, nuts etc are unavailable until further notice but you are allowed to fetch your own in.
Usual Milton range plus one guest ale, "Summer Virgin", 4.5% which was absolute nectar.
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I like this pub. It's spacious, it's friendly, the sofas are cosy and the beer is very tasty and reasonable. There are pool tables, lizards and a great jukebox.
My only gripe is that on my last visit, any of the music that people had chosen and paid for, and indeed any discussion at normal levels, was being drowned out by the sound of Guitar Hero being played on the big screen Wii. Badly.
I don't object to computer games in pubs, but the volume should be down. As this doesn't seem to work with Guitar Hero, stick to tennis/racing/jumping games.
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A great pub, a selection of real ales, dart board, pool table and good service.
Only about 2.50 a pint,
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Paid another visit recently and found some improvements. Lighting is less harsh now and about right...has a village pub feel to it...until the "music" kicks in. Most of it is death metal which is difficult to listen to for ordinary folk - hardly relaxing. Not as loud as it used to be but why should everyone have to suffer for the taste of a tiny minority? Not very polite really. They have now mounted a speaker to pump it out into what was once a peaceful beer garden...there's no escape. Beer is good though....
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I agree with Jamie's comments. Cracking beers but there's this odd stand off at the end of the night when the inner circle at the bar sit there with full pints and start glaring at the "others" at 11:20 to get out so they can resume their drinking...
Takes the sheen off it.
I'm a big Milton beer fan and really like the Pembury but this place is a bit like a youth club with beer...
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I got wind of the festival from fellow Camra friends and popped in on my own at the end of last week. Long time since I last came, and there's been changes, already written about like the smoker area, screen games etc. I had a mixture of halves and pints and the burgers were good. I can't work out how the heirarchy works in this pub, but I was in part of the pub where people were being hurried up to go when everyone at the bar had full pint glasses. That's another change since 2 years ago, it's turned cliquey.
I went away when told to, but felt the top had been taken off a good night's drinking.
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Visited last night to meet friends after the quiz was over. Pub was buzzing. Good quality guest beer, Highgate "Englands Glory" complemented the four or five Miltons, and of those, Nero and Dionysus were back on their great form.
The volume of the music was comfortable enough for me last night given that on previous visits here it had at times been a little loud for my personal taste. Last night I can vouch that comfortable conversation was possible throughout our stay.
Cyclists remain welcome in the Oakdale. Indeed for the first time this year I cycled here and back, making use of cycle space provided in the garden which now offers sheltered smoking accommodation.
The pub continues to provide WII games for everyone to enjoy, along with [real] pool and darts.
AND DON'T FORGET NEXT WEEK'S BEER FESTIVAL!
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They had Weston�s Old Rosie cider, as well as Milton�s Dionysus and Icarus on. I had the Dionysus which I had never had before. It�s a 3.6% hoppy lager-coloured ale which tasted excellent, and at �2.60 a pint is very reasonably priced. The pub itself has an air of tattiness that only a decent pub can carry off. It should be a very good pub � and probably is at another time � but what spoiled it for me was the mind-numbing loud thumping rave music that was being played. It�s the worst �music� that I have ever heard being played in a pub. I couldn�t get out fast enough � but I did stay long enough to finish my pint! I can�t see me making the trek up to North London to visit this pub again.
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loud is probably what you meant, but then death meTTTTallll sometimes is not to every bodies liking. SIt back and wait for the quieteter stuff.......Or the porno Aussie......
Hey it's our local pub, if you don't like what they are doing, fair enough, but don't diss the locals like that, not very polite.
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Very disappointed after my recent visit. The Milton beers are not as good as at The Pembury, and the clientele leaves much to be desired. After a swift pint of the cider (Stowford Press), I left the locals and their load music to it. Poor.
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Pub no longer has Sky. After Sky started getting the police to harass publicans, many pubs dropped the TV Footy.
Rob's genius led to the WII on the big screen, resultingin a tavern where every time you bowl, the world cheers with you.
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Cracking Good Beer Festival, So many beers of such great quality but me the best was the Felinfoel~Double Dragon.
Great food be served up from the New Outside Bar & Grill along with 10 superb ales.
Competitions on the wii were taking place with a fun atmosphere being enjoyed by all as the young & old mixed together enjoying all the fun.
The Machines in the back bar gave some recreational change to the air as I enjoy playing Pinball or playing Pool.
The Staff were extremely efficient & lively, always seeming to be there to answer any queries we had or to undertake tasks to make our stay more enjoyable.
A bit of a strain to get to this pub but well worth the hassle.
This has become somewhat of a regular local for my party of friends & me now, as its such good service by the staff that its hard to find its equal in the other various pubs we have frequented.
The outside beer garden now has shelters set-up for us smokers, with music piped out too from the jukebox inside the pub.All this and Great beers too, what more could you ask for!
The Guvernor (Rob) normally would be full of life but for some reason he seemed very down & remains so a lot of the time recently. Maybe the Stress is finally getting to him.
Wii games available to the customers to enjoy along with a great games room & outside seating/shelter area.
No other pub should ever be desired again once you experience the unique atmosphere this pub supplies day in day out.
P.S: Love All The Pirate Flags...But You Need More!
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I think this is what they indeed did. Cracking session last night - absolute NECTAR of a mild (Son of Sid's Muckcart Mild, 3.5%) bursting with flavour. Titanic Iceberg on excellent form and one or two others from the fest were also perfectly quaffable although they ran out early in the evening.
Rob, Steve, - please order more from the Son of Sid's brewery!
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Thanks Lee, I saw your mention of the �fest on bite forums & popped along yesterday. 10 beers on stillage in the garden shed, where they are also doing burgers & stuff, plus 7/8 on handpump in the bar. Maybe 4 Milton & the rest from around the country, ~�2.70. Not sure how they are going to rotate the stills as they run out (ie settling time), maybe they�ll leave the rest in the cellar and serve them thru the handpumps, as & when?
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FESTIVAL ON NOW - ENDS 22/9/08.
17 beers available at a time, from a total of 30 in the course of the event.
Details on Facebook under "Oakdale Beer Festival" (Events).
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It's a bit off the beaten track, but the beer at this pub is more than worth going out of the way for. There's a wide range of Milton beers, and usually a guest or two as well. The pub itself is quite large so there's never a problem getting a seat. In fact, sometimes it can be a little too quiet and you wonder if the odd barrel suffers from being on too long. That said, whenever I've had a bad pint, the friendly bar staff have been happy to swap it. And I've had far more good pints than bad!
Go and try it, but be prepared for an extended visit to try a range of what's available.
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Popped in here en route to Spurs yesterday. Lovely big pub. Beers are superb and the landlord is friendly and helpful. No criticisms other than i wished it opened at 11 am !!
Best part of the day considering our result.
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Finally got around to visiting this place and you definitely cannot complain about the beer! A fine selection from the Milton brewery (tried the Nero, Sparta, Dionysus and Pegasus) plus a guest. My only minor grumble was that the place was absolutely dead on my visit aside from a few locals which gave it a slight ominous atmosphere until I settled in. I'm sure it's fine though when there's a few more people there and I'll definitely pay it another visit soon. Recommended.
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Superb pub.
Decent Governor(Rob i think he's name is)he took time to chat to me and a friend and took our suggestions as to what would go well on the juke box. Decent Guinness, and not silly prices.
Classic big, old style Cockney pub, think of the Chas n Dave courage best adverts :0)
Gets the balance of being an Altnative pub(very rock influenced) and a local just right.Long haired metalers,rubbing shoulders with oi boys(me and my mate yesterday),rubbing shoulders with someones Grandad...a really good mix.
There was a problem with gents Toilets yesterday,and i passed comment to the bloke next to me, and he quickly jumped to the pubs defence and said it had only just happened and it wasn't usually like this.Thats a good sign when one of the regulars defends the pub, and he wasn't a typical rock type geezer,just a local.
I will be defintly visiting this pub on a lot more of a regular basis.
Shame it wasn't a tadge nearer the local bus routes etc, but then maybe thats a good thing.
Give this a year,and i reckon it will be a very talked about pub, and not just by us LBO Harringey residents
On our way out a group of 3 young girls turned up, late teens early twenties, obviously from outside the Manor, obviously there to check the Pub out.A sign for the future me thinks
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First visit from yours truly yesterday ( Sunday ) lunchtime.
Arriving just after midday, it initially appeared that I had gatecrashed some kind of kiddies play group, what with kids running around all over the place and parents sitting idly by with pushchairs.
However, thankfully, they soon left and I was able to enjoy 2 of the Milton Beers that were on. I liked the Pegasus, a dark copper coloured malty beer, but I was less keen on the Sparta, which tasted a bit lifeless and uninspiring.
The friendly barman - who bore a slight resemblance to Peter Stringfellow - offered me a taster of the others, which I wish I'd taken up in retrospect. There weren't any non Milton guest beers on.
The pub is situated in Hermitage Road, off Green Lanes, but right at the other end, about 10 minutes walk down the road if coming from the Green Lanes end.
Well worth visiting - can be combined with a visit to the Salisbury in Green Lanes, which was our next port of call after leaving the Oakdale.
Haringay is a bit outside our normal drinking territory - but I'll defo return soon
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Excellent once again on Friday night (01/02/08). One of the guest beers was a 3.6% IPA from a microbrewery - absolutely exquisite, and more-ish. Furthermore it was good to see Jupiter back on, alongside several other low-strength nevertheless high-flavour session ales available.
The jukebox is now fully illiminated once again so the practice of bringing candles and lighters up to it is now redundant.
I have to modify my commentary of 02/01/08 regarding the food shop on Seven Sisters Road - sadly it appears to have closed down (or at least be closed in the evenings), so visitors please ignore that paragraph and eat beforehand.
All the pub needs now is a few hooks to hang coats on, and for its loyal clientele to continue rewarding the team's efforts with continued regular custom.
Well done, Rob and the team.
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Stunning pub atmosphere due to Nell back behind the bar the other night we visited.
Good to see you in your rightful place as everyone misses you, customers and staff alike.
Sorry to hear you and rob split after being together over a year. * hugs * xx
The vacancy behind the bar is very obvious without you there.
If family resort to those tactics, well, .. , we're your family too. xx
Hope to see you soon, take care!
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Seven of the nine pumps were in use last night (Monday): mainly Milton beers (of course) but with one or two guest beers. It's a friendly local pub with its own style. I'll drop in again later this week.
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Very good atmosphere last night, with eight out of a possible 9 pumps in use. Miltons and seasonal guest beers on great form. Rob and Anthony are continuing to do a fine job.
I'm not sure if the "bring your takeaway" policy is still valid but, if it is, a fantastic curry canteen called Maharaja opened up on New Years Eve at 602 Seven Sisters Road, just around the corner from the Oakdale. They are open until 1am daily, and serve quickly. It's great for a pre- or post-session curry, as I found to my delight last night. I mention this to capture clientele who have previously cited the lack of food or a decent place to eat nearby as a deterrent to visiting the Oakdale Arms.
Threatened with demolition or not, the pub is doing all it can to survive and thrive as a decent local, maintaining its eclectic clientele and its independent style. Long may this continue.
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Great pub: a very unique experience!
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Hmm don't know what happened to the other post it appears to have been lost in the either. it was just saying that as far as I'm aware the council only viewed the factory about a month ago so I don't believe the owners have planning permission yet. They did send some lads round but that was to cart off some rubbish
The other thing I said was that I'd like to echo Lad_Newtons sentiments in that what a sterling job Rob is doing of running the place
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Oh I forgot to mention the Pub now has a Wii games console attached to the big screen so anyone for 10 pin bowling, Golf etc :)
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Report received that neighbouring site to the pub is being demolished as we speak. One has to ask why they are doing this now, and on such a small piece of land as it is, next to the Oakdale, the threat of closure is ever-more real. More information PLEASE. Is the pub only weeks away from closure?
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Beer far more consistent and reliable now than earlier in the year; with one or two interesting guest beers from the eastern side of the country. A good session ale is always available, be it Milton or a guest.
Keep it up Rob
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Great to see all the handpumps back in action, and some interesting new choices from Milton.
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Good form continuing. The Oakdale is on the up and up! Visited twice on the weekend, and the beer range and quality was consistently good. Northumberland Ale was a particular favourite, and good to see Nero back for the autumn.
Rob is doing a commendable job maintaining the good name of the pub, and it has returned to the relaxing, welcoming establishment it once was.
Great stuff.
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Superb return to form! Top class session on Friday night (17/8/07) with four Milton ales on their best form alongside Milestone North Rock and, best of all, Castle Rock Harvest Pale which was positively sublime.
A genuinely relaxed feel in the pub was supplimented by friendly efficiency behind the bar, and everyone in the pub seemed to be having a good time. More of the same please!
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lovely quiet back street pub - somewhat off the beaten track
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Its with Great Satisfaction that I can now update my past thoughts to the site & on a more positive & proud scale to be sure...Yes its True...both Nell & myself have been back to work this past couple of months & are back full time under Steve's Expert Supervision, which just goes to show the advantages of having a Boss Actually Trust their staff to maintain an expected level of ethics within the work place & how to Always do the job Correctly to which it had sadly fallen in our abscence over previous recent times.But no longer now...we managed to sort our staffing issue out now & Im sure we are a Strong team once more that will always be able to offer all an attentive service that they're used too or should expect from us. Also (hopefully) still becoming a more usual sight to the team shall be *Antonye* ( Ant ) who looks set to join us by the end of July'07, after his presence was widely recieved by customers thru-out beerfest week when he aided us by running the festival bar in the back room more than the front bar ( Done a remarkable job too, he did).
A few Updates for the attention of those of you who do not know;
a) July 1st saw The National No-Smoking Law throughout Bars & Pub Venues come into effect, So yes its been a hard transition for some customers to handle (aswell as myself being a smoker too) but it has inspired us now as we cater for a larger area & are faced with making life more comfortable for the smoker who is made to step outside...So, personally I erected adequate garden shelter in our beer garden for customers to make full use of ( in all that heavy rain & strong winds too)& I've relocated a couple of tables to the outside front area of the pub entrance,(& colourfull umberella' too!) which offer shelter from rain or sun. (Offering a warm & welcoming colour to the pub's view).
b)The jukebox that Everyone comments on loving so much is being updated at present & will be back to full working order ( Not skipping or jumping ) within 24 hours...I Promise ( working on it right now actually, eta=saturday eve, fingers crossed).
c)The recent beerfest was a greater success than our previous attempt (which seemed to lack certain level's of effort that was always present in the past years), but thankfully now & in the future we should offer every effort to make the you more comfortable & your visit a more memorable experience.So thank you to all the characters I managed myself to meet through-out the event & all the laughs that you guys gave me, aswell as of course Enjoying my 35th birthday on the 22nd June & to express also Ants thanks as he also enjoyed his birthday on the 20th June with so many laughs. ( " Thank~You All " ).
d)The future of the pub is still un-determined as far as I'm led to believe so can offer no explanation sorry,as so many have asked of me & Im unable to offer any official comment in return to which I apologise.
*Polotics & Me* = "huh!" .
Those wishing to know full details are respectfully requested to consult Steve for further info through the pub website emails or face to face here or at the pembury, thanks.
I believe Steve will offer update us if any reason should be given for concern but until then, as the saying goes "No News...Is Good News!". Im there to work & keep the drinks flowing & customers smiling as best I can of course, the same goes for all the staff.
Some people think because the venues uncertain plans in the future...this is a basis of a negative outlook to judge of us which does concern me.
Just because the future is uncertain does NOT mean we should give-up already on the place.
Its still my home aswell, aswell as so many others too, & for everyones benefit be shown to offer everybodies visit more of a memorable experience than the last.
Theres No Reason To Give Up,
But Every Reason To Inspire Happier Memories Until Its End.
e)Unfortunatly our kitchen is Not serving food or hot drinks at this time but hopefully will resume in the coming future so in the meantime we will Not have a problem if customers order takeaways to be consumed on the premises,(which can be located next door too)& if your needs wish we can still offer plates/cuttlery for customer useage.
We still of course though offer bar snacks of : Crisps, Pepperami's, Scratchings, Nuts & Twiglets should you prefer to eat lighter.
Those whom asked me for copies of the Gallery slideshow I presented on the Big Screen through-out Beefest week?...
Plz remind me when you see me as I did not note who had asked, & so couldnt recall everyone who enjoyed it at the end of my birthday celebrations so apologise if your still waiting, but I will sort it out for a.s.a.p. when I note who you are, thanks.
(Glad it worked the way it was intended to intrigue & Inspire & of course make you Smile!)
Further:
All pictures in the past that Nell took (for her *Uni Project* which may have subjected some of you to model for) or Any pictures that I myself may have taken in the bar since my first day as a barman (up until right now) will be added to the pub website any~time now.. (well as soon as I get my finger out & give the disk infront of me to Steve to update its present site that is...so anytime now I hope) .* fingers crossed *
Dont forget to keep checking back to the pub site as Im sure we have at very least got 98% of usual suspects & or beerfest visitors.
( If you have Any advice or just fancy a chat...dont be put off by my 7ft stature as you will find Im very easy going & approachable I assure you ).
"Hopefully Each moment is always Better than the Last".
Thanks.
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Haven't been to this pub for a few years but returned for the beer festival with some friends as we all love a pint of good old ale. Have to say that I will be returning much more frequently. Good selection of ales on at festival. Nice friendly staff, although the bar was busy and the young blonde girl did a fantastic job of keeping us all happy. Will definately return again soon, keep up the good work guys!
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Went in on Thursday good range of Milton beers and others on. There was also a very lively quiz going on. The Oakdale seems to be back to its best.
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Don't know what the situ was with Rob & Nell but happy to report that they were both dispensing the beer on my first visit to the Oakdale on friday. What a top pub - nine handpumps greet you in the front bar and these were supplemented by ten barrels on stillage in the back bar during the beerfest. Milton beers are the regulars here and these were well represented along with a good cross-section of alternatives, strong on the summer/golden ale varieties which are my current favs, but also cider, perry & chocolate stout. Tried a dozen or so and was very happy with all of them. Outstanding - seems to be something of an oasis in this part of town and worth the treck from seven sisters. I'll certainly be going back.
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The beer festival was pretty good and we enjoyed all the beers we tried. It's a lovely back street local and an asset to the area. I only hope it doesn't get sold off for redevelopment as is/was rumoured. It would be a tragedy to lose such a fine community pub. Must try and get there more often and do my bit to keep the takings up.
chick - 21 Jun 2007 10:18 |
It's not just rumours - The Oakdale Arms IS better than it has been for a while now. I came in last week for the first time in about 3 months, spotted new staff (charming lass on the bar) and you could not beat the Sparter or Dionisyus (I'm sure I've spelled that wrong??) that were all perfect. 3 or 4 other good beers. Still no food but 1 or 2 guys brought pizza in from take away up the road.
This is great news.
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Pub has really found its feet once more. Cycled down on Tuesday evening to enjoy more perfect Milton beers. Rob and the team are doing a fine job, and I recommend that anyone who hasn't been for a while to return and see for themselves how the Oakdale has improved.
I anticipate paying AT LEAST one visit to next week's festival!
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Fantastic evening last night. Slaters' Queen Bee (4.2%)was exquisite and more-ish, Sparta and Pegasus were on top form, and Nero was just about perfect. Two delightful girls behind the bar afforded friendly attentive service throughout the evening, making it one of those sessions that simply cannot be pre-arranged!
10/10 for beer quality and atmosphere. The Oakdale has definitely regained its prior glory and long may this continue. Finally where did those delicious sweets come from?
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I am happy to report that the practice, referred to in the previous posting, has ceased. There are more beers, and the atmosphere has improved much since earlier in the year.
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Has whoever is in charge now stopped the policy of opening all the doors at closing time to let in an icy blast? God, that was annoying - and unbecoming of such a pub..
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Visited twice since Easter. Beer has improved with a full range of Milton ales available once again. General atmosphere is also on the up. Worth visiting more frequently again.
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Well, hello one & all, I finally thought it to be a fitting time to post a comment on the site now after a chat with ' Ladnewton' & Thankyou kindly for your words ' Ladnewton' ( " Sadly, Rob has now seen fit to leave the Oakdale. The man deserves a round of applause for his efforts to return the pub to its original standard " ).
Yes it sadly is true that I & Nell resigned from the bar positions at the Oakdale Arms ( & had good reason to but wont go into that) but its NOT a decision that We were happy about nor that we still are happy about because we Love this pub, & I still live above it as I did before working here, so it hurts me now to be away from the bar,
..This Pub is Home & I Miss it Still Constantly as does Nell.
Every~One of the Customers made it so welcoming a feeling to come to work that they All have been so close to me during my stay they were more like my real family than my own & I respected all of them ( even with the initail shaky start to the job I did transferring from doorman to barman...but it was so comfortable & easy because of you all ) I thank everyone for the ongoing support & ' Tom ' of course for his tutoring me ( thanks bruv ) but I've now sat my Licencse exam & hope to get a place myself for the future dont worry , just be nice to be back to serving you all again, ( Im so very bored at the moment aswell )... Cant wait to get back working & make my dream a reality by means of giving all a pub to be proud of again.
I'll Miss the Oakdale tho & All the customers, but Im confident the future will offer another position soon, then Everyones welcome to join me for a jar!
I always am intrested to hear feedback, so am thankfull for the pleasant reviews I have read thus far & am glad to have been of service to you all...I wish we didnt leave now as the support has been over-whelming from everyone, so Im sorry we did as it was not a choice we really wanted nor came to lightly & would gladly change if we could, Sorry.
Thanks ' Ladnewton ' & Everyone for your support.
~ Rob ( ex - Assistant Manager @ The Oakdale Arms )
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I visited during a surprisingly quiet Sunday lunchtime session a couple of weeks back. Nice comfortable locals' pub, five Milton ales on handpump. Beer quality was decent but not as good as the Pembury, although the Oakdale is a more comfortable place for a session.
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New staff since end of last week (?) Still less beers (and not as good) as a year or 2 back. Will stick to the Pem next time in N.London.
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Sadly, Rob has now seen fit to leave the Oakdale. The man deserves a round of applause for his efforts to return the pub to its original standard. Wishing him all the best in his future endeavours. Firm management is now required to maintain beer standards which, alas, have begun to slip since my last review. Any ongoing issues need to be tackled from the root causes, and positive action in ensuring these standards are reached would be welcomed by all.
Wishing the best for the Oakdale Arms.
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And, as if by magic�.
What an amazing improvement! I visited to watch Arsenal v PSV Eindhoven last night. No less than SIX ales were available � including two wholly exquisite Titanic brews alongside Minotaur, Marcus Aurelius and Neaurosis from Milton. All beers were on excellent form, making this the best session, by beer range and quality, for many months. Rob is now assistant manager and last night said he welcomes back anyone who has recently felt a reason not to visit the Oakdale Arms, and Mel has retained her friendly, easy-going qualities.
The atmosphere was buzzing at the end of the session with regulars Michael, Sean, Ian and Lloyd all on as �good form� as the beer. Whatever internal restructuring has taken place, it has worked!
All in all, an excellent and memorable evening.
Back to 10/10.
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I really enjoyed this Pub the whole time I was there, from enjoying the vast ecolectic styled jukebox that really had something for everyone on, to the atmosphere generated by the easily approachable staff behind the bar who made us feel really welcome without any trouble.The staff were friendly & even able to have a joke at their own costs to keep us amused. The beers available were few but the atmosphere was astounding & convinced us that we will be attending again very soon.The Landlord there was a bit of a Giant Jester, loads of fun & made us feel so very welcome. Great stuff from this pub.
Thanks!
anonymous - 9 Feb 2007 10:52 |
Visitors to the Oakdale since the new year will find a few subtle changes. The food kitchen is now closed for the winter although, with permission, you may bring in and consume a takeaway.
The number of ales available on many nights varies between 2 and 4, with those at the stronger end of the spectrum featuring prominently.
The Thursday night quiz remains well attended and the pub is still the best place to come and watch football matches that involve a well-known North London Premiership team.
Closing time routine still, alas, involves all pub doors opening, which, although an efficient pub-clearing technique used in other establishments, does make the pub a better one at which to start, rather than to finish, a crawl.
6/10
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Best pub in Harringay by a country mile. Deservedly winner of CAMRA North London Pub of the year. A bit, or even a lot, smokey but it's worth it for the quality of the beer. They've stopped doing food but we were told that "You are welcome to bring in a takeaway" and the quiz on Thursdays is very competitive..
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Everything a community pub should be - take note all you other landlords in Tottenham! Simple recipe - good choice of beers and food, friendly staff, good music, even books & magazines to read if you're bored.
Never had a bad pint here. Only downside is it's difficult to reach, especially after dark - not a nice walk! How can these guys do what every other publican and pup company in Tottenham finds so bloody difficult?
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I may be a bit more of an alcoholic than jamie.nakin as I'm not particularly concerned about the presence or absence of session beers. But I completely agree with his comment: it's very disappointing to see only two or three ales available when the Oakdale's website shows many more as "Beers currently in the cellar or on sale" (I'm not enough of an alcoholic to try and sneak down the cellar, so only those beers "on sale" are available to me).
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Free playing juke box good innovation here. Beer range has come down since I were here at the end of November. Last Friday just 2 strong beers (7% or higher) plus "Pegasus" (about 4 %) These strengths are OK if you're an alcoholic but was slightly let down by the lack of "session beers", this I found a bit strange considering pub's website showed a lot more beers than that,and still does.
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We walked over to the Oakdale from West Green Road last Friday night and were glad to have made the trip. Didn't realise the link with the Pembury in Hackney until I saw the Milton pumps at the bar. Pub contained crazy range of fashionable youngsters in drainpipes, working men from eastern Europe, local Londoners and a ROCKing jukebox on which we were given 7 free plays by the landlady. I will certainly be going back at some point cos I love quirky places like this.
NOTE: I saw a bike inside the pub so I reckon you can drag your steed inside too.
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Great pub, great interior and selection of ales. Only problem is getting there as it is a long way up a residential street
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You must have missed out on the Milton "Neaurosis", 5%, v. good, and "Rutterkin" from the back bar (festival beer) that was on great form. My journey to the Oakdale, with a train ride and 2 bus changes, was well worth it. I didn't have the Nero or the Hoptimistic beer as other punters moaned about the beer and later on the clip was turned back.
The lack of festival beers on was my own fault for only coming in on Wednesday when the festival began a week ago.
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Heard great things about this pub but, boy, what a disappointment. The Milton Nero was on the turn and I had been really looking forward to this. The bar staff were pushing us to try some of the left-overs from the beer festival that were (unsurprisingly after a week on the shelf) in bad condition (warm and flat). One of the guest ales (Milestone Hoptimism) was off (Sarsons) but the bar manager insisted it was good. After getting him to taste it he agreed and turned the clip around. At the next trip to the bar we noticed he had turned the clip around again and was selling it as if it was ok. The food took nearly an hour to arrive and was cold and very poor. All in all a wasted journey. I hear the future of this pub is in jeopardy. After this showing I'm not surprised.
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A cracking-good festival! Caught the end of it on Saturday 25/11/06 having returned by Eurostar from Paris at 4pm and attended a concert in Finchley at 7.45pm. The best beer on was Nottingham Rock Bitter, and a Buntingford ale. It was another of those nights that cannot be arranged beforehand - just perfect!
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I actually visited last SATURDAY. Think you'll find the beer is about as good as it has been for a long time at this establishment. Different staff, different emphasis. Agreed the lower light level is a good thing. I note, however, purely as an observation, that guest beers are less abundant than a while ago, but this has been offset by an improvement in the reliability of Milton beers.
Now to the thorny issue of the aforementioned "door-opening policy" raised by the previous reviewer. My personal opinion (and that's all it is) is that one now leaves the pub feeling slightly different from the days before this was introduced. I am not knocking any points off the marking of the pub because it remains under threat from the developers and clearly needs all the support it can get. Criticisms posted by casual drinkers who visit once every six months are unhelpful.
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Pubs changed quite a bit. Not been in for a few months. Popped in last week. Unusually tall guy has replaced the unusually short one behind the bar. All the other staff seem new aswell. Milton ales still good. Lighting a bit darker which is nice. Don't think much of their new policy of opening all the doors at 11.15 so you have to rush out the pub feelin uncomfortable. Spoils it a bit if you've been in all evening & enjoyed the beers. Still good pub generally, and nice to see it full of people again.
10/10 last time, 8/10 this time.
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A very nice pub. Obscurely located, it doesn't look much from the outside and even the inside is a bit cavernous and scruffy on first glance. But the Milton beers are marvellous, and extremely well-served, the service is very good, and the clientele seem friendly and pleasant. Ultimately this is the kind of pub that would be great to have as one's local.
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I was quite surprised to come into the Oakdale on a quiet monday and find it pleasantly candle-lit (rather than the oppressively bright lights which have always irritated me a bit). Even more surprised when bar staff brought around free snacks (spicy mixed nuts).
I'm a big fan of the Milton beers, this time it was Colossus that caught my fancy. Can't go wrong with Jericho either.
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The caribbean curries last friday were exquisite. Good selection of beers on last Friday too; returned yesterday for another lively session - excellent "Jericho" (Milton). Pub was crowded, quite interestingly not just for the football.
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West Indian beer festival is running this week (now until Saturday 28 Oct) celebrating Black History Month.
Special events (as listed on Haringey council's website):
Tuesday 24: Special rum evening
Wednesday 25: Black History Month pub quiz
Friday 27: Caribbean Curry Day
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For the land owner to keep the pub open and NOT convert it into flats.
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excellant local.brilliant beers and jukebox
good food and friendly atmospere,what mor could you ask for?
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Yep guyz. Certainly under new boss called Julie (?) now. She seems to have kept pub the same. Live music (mention by "ladnewton" 7/8/06 still on. Fewer beers, but still good ones with Miltons and guest beers. Good 2 see still making an effort to keep the place going, and good luck. Only get to come here once every few months so well worth trip into london.
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Top quality lamb kebab, pitta & salad last night. Although the Nero went off quite late in the evening it was swiftly replaced with an exquisite porter of similar stature. Good stuff!
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Got it from the "horse"'s mouth last week. Pub will remain open for forseeable future, now run by Julie. There will, as mentioned below, be a change to the food menus with more available, and the beers will remain the same.
I would like to thank Tom for his warmth, wit and friendliness in the past three years, and to wish him all the best in his future endeavours! To Tom . . .
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New Food Menu on the way. Italian themed nights likely. The Oakdale Arms appears to be under new management within the same company so hopefully the beer choice will remain unchanged.
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Great to have Phil back playing on Sunday nights. Good gig last night. Phil never mind the snapped string - happens to the world's best players!
Don't leave it so long next time.
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Do not despair.
It might not be the end of the road for our pub. There is talk of a lease if the planning permission is granted but not used immediately.
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I hear from local CAMRA sources that the developers' appeal against refusal of planning permission was upheld, so the Oakdale is sadly not long for this world. Make the most of this gem while you still can!
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Musical connoisseurs amongst us were delighted to hear the strains of Peter Warlock's Capriol Suite on the jukebox. And some excellent jazz before that too.
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Yep, safe to say that this is one place I would not have happened across under normal circumstances. But TMG is no normal character and the TMGC was no normal circumstance. Quite a find, and probably the most diverse clientele I have ever drunk alongside. Even the potentially polarising Arsenal-Spurs match on TV wasn't enough to upset the happy balance it seemed. Did somebody steal the original 'O' of the sign? And is there consequently another pub missing a golden 'O'? Must find out.
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This place took some finding but we had to persist as it was no 3 of 13 in a BITE crawl. We arrived, sore of foot and dry of palate to find just the sort of place i like. Yes, it was a bit tatty, but a genuinely mixed and relaxed crowd and some nice touches like the CAMRA guides from the late 1970s lying around. (Calling it a 'nice touch' makes it sound contrived which I am sure it is not). I agree that the service is very good, as is the beer.
We found some cracked old leather armchairs and I took a pic of IITC which made him look like a deformed jellyfish. Were it not for our punishing schedule I could have stayed all day. Although the big screen was a bit faint.
A bastion of old pubness in a barren desert. Once places like this cease to exist our streets will be all the poorer for it. Although Hassan took his sweet time turning up. Never been in an MPV with so many curtains.
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Easter beer fest is going on from 12-18 April.
Check out the beer list etc on the oakdale's website (link above). Wish I could make it.
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Very basic and friendly boozer. All the beers that I tried were in tip top codition and the guv'nor seems to take great care of them. Seems they do some great curries friday lunchtime. Will be returning very shortly to try. Hope that this pub is not under threat as it would be a great loss to us real ale drinkers. Perhaps CAMRA will put their weight against any threat of closure.
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Great beer, great company, pleasant bar staff. However, a distinct lack of pancakes on a Shrove Tuesday left the locals looking for more! Jiff lemons and sugar had been brought in the hope nourishment, but all in vain. Macaroons from the shop had to suffice.
anonymous - 28 Feb 2006 22:14 |
So have I. It says it will be decided by the Planning Inspectorate on the basis of an exchange of written statements by the Council & the appellant. Views on the appeal are requested & must be sent (3 copies) to The Planning Inspectorate, 3/01 Kite Wing,Temple Quay House, 2 The Square, Temple Quay, Bristol BS1 6PN, to arrive by March 3rd. Quote ref APP/Y5420/A/06/1197720. One point I shall be making is that the original rejection (on grounds of scale & appearance) made no mention of the loss of amenity that closure of the pub would cause.
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On receiving my post today, I have received a letter from Haringey that seems to confirm this.
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Under threat once more. The building firm that plagued the Oakdale Arms throughout 2005 have lodged an appeal. Although no-one will be completely surprised, it is nevertheless bound to cause dismay amongst the Oakdale's discerning drinkership
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A real pint of Mild in London (January 2006)!!
I have searched high and low for Mild in London, here my thirst was quenched.
Popped in as I only live around the corner. Several real ales are on tap. For me it is (Milton's) Minataur Mild.
Directions are easy but about 15 mins from Manor House tube. Out of tune walk down the hill (Green Lanes) and turn right at the lights down Hermitage Road 8 minutes down there to an oasis of real ale.
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Great NYE.
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Milton Sparta was on its best form last Thursday, sadly it was all drunk by thirsty customers by Friday!
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Tried this place out on the strength of the reviews on this site and am pleased to report that they are accurate and I wasn't disappointed.
To say this pub is a little of the beaten track might be an understatement but persist in seeking it out and you'll find a positive temple to beer in an area that The Salisbury on Green Lanes aside, is crying out for decent boozers. This pub must not be allowed to close!
From the outside this looks like a bog-satndard local pub, once inside your heart may initially sink as the decor owes more to a seventies working man's club than to a cosy traditional pub or a modern clean & "interior designed" chain pub. But settle in and it's comfy enough if a little lived-in.
Now to the reason for the existence of this place; the beer. In a word it's fantastic. Well kept and reasonably priced real ales that you won't find anywhere else locally that taste absolutely gorgeous. I had pints of Jericho which sadly ran out or I'd have sunk a fair few of them, but my alternative choice Aphrodite was also splendid and prevented my initial sadness at the end of the Jericho from ruining my evening.
Not much for lager drinkers(which noramlly includes me) except Budvar, but in fairness that's a fine beer in it's own right and there are plenty of other paces to go if you want to drink lager.
Well worthy of a visit, I shall be calling again.
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** F E S T I V A L **
********* ON ********
******** N O W ******
15-25 November 2005
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As someone who objected formally, I got a letter last week from Haringey Planning Dept stating that the demolition/redevelopment proposal had indeed been rejected. However the reasons for rejection were the scale & design of the proposal, not the loss of a valued amenity etc, so it's not beyond the bounds of possibility that the developers will simply reapply with a scaled-down proposal. So a watch needs to be maintained. Meanwhile I spent a thoroughly excellent evening there on Saturday. If I lived round that way, this would be my local for sure.
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C O N G R A T U L A T I O N S ! ! !
The planning application for the Oakdale's demolition appears to have been defeated on 31/10/2005 - await formal confirmation. If this is confirmed, this is the great news we have all been waiting for.
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Next beer festival: 15th to 22nd November 2005. The same as usual - about 40 real ales, five ciders/perries, lovely food.
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NB the local church finishes before opening time (12pm) on Sundays. If you arrive at opening time you might catch them clearing up!
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The only pub I know that has got an (almost) online beer menu on it's web site. Had a nice visit here to drink unusual beers & watch football last September. My first beers from Milton, and it was a nice acquaintance. Good Sunday lunch. BEWARE: There may be a (Christian) service taking place if you arrive early on a Sunday.
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Decision on the pub's future has been adjourned, pending a site visit and a further committee meeting scheduled for Monday, 31st October 2005.
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Like The Wenlock this suffers from being a bit out of the way, especially as regards public transport. Also, like The Wenlock, this is a pub for lovers of cask beer. There the similarities end. Oakdale is bigger, cleaner, brighter and can offer much for even the non beer geek. Food is more interesting - with the option of having a proper hot meal. Even though this is the London outlet for Milton's beers, other beers are available, and the pub does good beer festivals. An excellent pub.
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The beer here is fantastic and the best selection for a few miles around. The service is great to and it would be a real shame to lose a pub that should be the pride of harringay
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Had the vindaloo on Friday quite supprised to get a curry in a pub that tastes like you'd expect a proper curry to taste
Very well done
anonymous - 23 Aug 2005 17:27 |
******* FOOD BULLETIN ********
The oakdale now serves exquisite homemade curries on an a-la-carte basis on Fridays 1200-1415 and 1800-2130.
This is a copy of last Friday's menu:
*************Chicken*********
MEDIUM CURRY
A restaurant standard, medium heat in a rich sauce with loads of flavour.
KORMA
With cream and cashew nuts, mild and creamy. Ideal for people who do not like chilli heat
MADRAS
Hot with black pepper and lemon juice.
VINDALOO
Very Hot. With Tom's special chilli sauce - put the loo roll in the fridge!
ACHAR
Cjicken cooked with tangy pickle and sliced mango. Medium heat.
METHI
Chef's favourite (and mine!) Medium heat with delicious savoury fenugreek flavour.
*********Vegetable curry**************
MIXED VEGETABLE CURRY
Chunky Mixed Vegetables in a smooth medium sauce
All served with spiced pilau rice @ �4.00; poppadoms 40p each.
At a stroke, the problem of "nowhere to get a decent bite to eat in the area" has been eliminated - Pay a visit and see for yourselves.
With regards to the commentaries below in May and June, I urge every councillor involved in the fate of the pub to read this site and - more importantly - visit the pub and see for themselves what would be lost if they fail to arrive at the [correct] decision!!
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well done to all the staff for a great festival, and the friendly barmaids from the check republic make the place worth going to even without the beer. DO ***NOT*** close down this pub - Harringey Council are you listening???
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CAN'T BELEIVE THE PUB MIGHT HAVE TO CLOSE. MAKE THE MOST OF IT - BEST REAL BEER PUB IN NORTH EAST LONDON NOT THAT EASY TO GET TO THO, BUT WORTH IT!
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I would weep were the oakdale to be closed down. It must not happen.
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I love this pub. It used to be our local, and we still make the trek back every now and then. Excellent beer, good service, football on TV, lovely (and sometimes quite mad) people. I can't believe it might be knocked down - I'm shocked, and will be writing to the council... Please do the same.
anonymous - 22 May 2005 13:37 |
Lovely pub, lovely beer and great beer range, great staff, oversized lined glasses so you definitely get a pint. How can someone be trying to knock it down? It beggars belief. Hopefully Haringey Council will realise what a gem they have in the borough and turn the application down.
anonymous - 16 May 2005 21:19 |
Oh yes, another thing: we're now serving Sunday lunch from 12pm every Sunday. Turn up early to avoid disappointment - we've sold out each week so far.
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Haringey Planning Application HGY/2005/0734
Location: Oakdale Arms 283 Hermitage Road N4 1NP Proposal: Demolition of existing building and erection of a three storey building comprising 4 x 1 bed, 2 x 2 bed, 2 x 3 bed and 1 x 4 bed self contained flats and parking at basement level.
anonymous - 6 May 2005 16:55 |
I too thought the last festival here was extremely good, particularly the Orkney stout and the Swamp Donkey cider. The food here was possibly the best I have had at any pub and that is saying something. The only criticism here would be that it could be difficult for newcomers to find. Lets hope for another festival A.S.A.P.
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Right, Tom the landlord here - just to let readers of bite know that our next beer festival is planned 22nd - 26th June 2005.
The pub kitchen is very nearly complete - just waiting for a slow oven delivery, then it will be SUNDAY ROAST DINNERS at the Oakdale - sometime in the next couple of weeks.
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If you like this pub try the Coalheavers Arms at Peterborough, also Milton.
All the above virtues apart from Happy Hour.
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Q:Where do you ever see the first pint of the session being pulled to clear the pipes?
A: Virtually nowhere except here
Q; Where do you ever see bar staff examining glasses for stains from the washer & then deciding to do an extra rinse to guarantee that they are 'just right'?
A;Virtually nowhere except here
The staff also ask if you enjoyed your pint AND the beer is top quality - what a great pub. Lucky locals. Everybody else:put yourself out & make the trip.
(there is even a happy hour between 5 & 6 )
mally - 30 Mar 2005 22:00 |
the last festival was marvellous and it seems one is being considered for may - i really hope it happens!
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Congratulations to Steve, Tom and all the others on the excellent festival! Apart from the superb range of beers (on Monday and Friday when I visited with friends), the home-made food was second-to-none, patricularly the burgers. Good to see the old pub buzzing with real conversation, and I noted, with interest, the silence of the jukebox.
Here's to many more festivals!
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A walk from where i live but this place encourages me to get my boots on now and then. Its great to see some diversity on the pumps, not all the brews are brilliant but theres always one or two that you can spend the night with! Always feels a bit empty though especially considering its so large - looking forward to the festival!
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I walked nearly 7 miles to get to this pub (too poor for public transport) and was not dissapointed. 8 cask ales on, all very well priced and very drinkable - also a real cider on. Very nice looking, sizeable interior and a jukebox with a lot going for it. I intend to be back for the beer festival the week after next!
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Cidre Merveilleux De M�tier Disponible Ici. Chat Sup�rieur
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The next festival is 21st-27th February. 30+ real ales, 5 real ciders.
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Tom's a good lad, when is the next festival?
Great Pub, Great Beer, Great Cider, Great People, Iffy Location.
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It's good to see some different beers in north London but Milton beers, in my opinion, aren't the best although I like Nero. I still try to get up there about every couple of weeks as I think this venture should be encouraged. Tom's curries are great also.
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Having first learned about this from the 2005 Good Beer Guide, it's good to see a decent real ale pub has found it's way to London N4. An area which in the past we thought was devoid of good pubs and beer.
The enormous range of beer, nice atmosphere and friendly staff have definitely made this our permanent local from now on!
Phil Richards - 24 Oct 2004 21:16 |
maybe its one of the best pubs north of the thames - visit. the staff have a great sense of humor and the bar maid is very friendly. Beer's good theres usually around 5 or 6 to choose from. Now in camra gbg. Go there
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The beer festival is actually 12th-16th August, although obviously by the 16th quite a lot of the beers will have been drunk. There's going to be a bit of a party on the Saturday evening (14th) because it's the landlord's birthday. One of the beers is his special birthday brew!
The preliminary beer and cider list is on the pub web page.
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I'm told that the Oakdale is not in contention for CAMRA pub of the year because it's "too new". CAMRA are self-defeating idiots sometimes.
This is the best pub in London and it's having a beer festival from the 12th to 15th August. You should get there before that but you should definitely get there for that.
IRBaboon - 23 Jul 2004 20:43 |
Glad to hear about the Oakdale's sister pub winning " Cambridgeshire POTY" i bet everyone is extremely happy.
well done to all!!!!!!
poshman - 11 Jul 2004 21:48 |
Excellent home-made Thai curry yesterday. Well done Steve. This was the best pub in which to follow the Euro 2004. Enjoyed the barbeques etc as well as the beer!
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If only this pub had been on the map when I lived in Harringay in the early '80s. Three different draught milds to choose from and bottled Abbeye du Val Dieu beers when I was there on Tuesday. What more could you ask for.
Stephen Harris - 21 May 2004 21:58 |
A Very Friendly & Warm Atmosphere is Always found within this Pub.A Good place to go for the Sensible drinker or the Comfortable drinker.They have 8 Pumps of Real Ale and 2 Pumps of Lager,Plus a range of Belgian Bottles on the shelf to cater for everyone.A Beautiful Pub set back off the Main Road away from the Hustle & Bustle of some High Street or Main Road Pubs.Quiet surroundings with Live Music on Sunday evenings and even home made Curry Friday Lunchtime.Beautiful Barmaids who always have a smile waiting for you and are always intrested in having a laugh with the customers.Thursday evenings there they hold a pub quiz thats free to enter & even has CASH prizes.
This Pub has So Much to be Thankfull for but Not many know of it.....I recommend ANYONE to at least try it.Once you been there you'll find you dont wanna go anywhere else.
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Went a couple of weeks ago on sat pm excellent beers and a very friendly atmosphere. It's great to see this and the Salisbury ( 5 mins away on Green Lanes fighting back for REAL pubs and PROPER beer..
Dave - 4 Apr 2004 14:24 |
Great Pub,
Happy People,
Decent Beer & Real Cambridge Cider
Gill P - 26 Mar 2004 11:38 |
An excellent festival last week - well done to the management. I also think the rolls in the evening are a good idea, so hope that's something of an incentive to continue.
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All of you - come & enjoy the festival tonight, 't will be great no matter how bright or dim the lightning is!
30 beers available during the fest.
anonymous - 27 Feb 2004 15:47 |
Blimey! You don't get that kind of open-minded responsiveness at your usual London pub. I'm not advocating for it become all dingy...just kinda more subtle. But keep up the good work; the industry need more pubs (and landlords) like this!
Steve - 26 Feb 2004 12:52 |
Noted the comment about the lighting. We'll try some lower-wattage bulbs in the public bar.
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Terrific beer and friendly service make this a mandatory destination for anyone with a preference for real ale. A great addition for London.
stephen - 25 Feb 2004 14:06 |
THE BEST PUB IN NORTH LONDON FOR REAL BEER. TOM'S GREAT & SO ARE THE OTHER GIRLS WORKING BESIDE HIM. JUST DISCOVERED THE PUB & CAN RECCOMEND IT!!
anonymous - 23 Feb 2004 19:38 |
Also noted the welcome use of lined glasses in this pub - a full pint is guaranteed.
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The Oakdale is holding it's first Beer Festival - running from 23rd to 29th February. There will be some great ales (and ciders) available!
Richard - 4 Feb 2004 13:23 |
Great place very friendly staff pub has won Camera award for pub of the season in Winter 2003
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Well done, Steve, Tom & Richard.
Made it at last on Monday before a week at Pigs Ear. Thwere were apologies for only 2 beers, but they were in good form and there was Cassels Cider as well. A welcome from bar staff & locals I will be back. I do recommend the sister pub in Peterborough (The Coal Heavers Arms) where Steve is in charge till Christmas, if you can identify me I may buy you a pint!?
Premier Chat - 4 Dec 2003 13:00 |
Well done Tom!
An excellent beerfest last night to mark the well deserved award of Pub of the Season. Here's to many more such accolades and a speedy entry into the next issue of the Good Beer Guide.
And well done Richard as well for the CALLIGULA (8.8%) Was exquisite and more-ish although the requirement to drink "sensibly" during the week meant I could only manage a half pint!
This great pub is going from strength to strength!
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PUB HAS BEEN AWARDED CAMRA PUB OF THE SEASON 2003.
VISIT THE PUB ON TUESDAY 25/11/2003 FOR THE AWARD CEREMONY - TWO STRONG BEERS HAVE BEEN BREWED ESPECIALLY, AND UP TO EIGHT BEERS WILL BE AVAILABLE.
NOT TO BE MISSED!
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Went here on Friday night, Fantasic ,great beer,nice atmosphere. Almost the perfect pub but the decor in the bar is in a bit of a state & the speaker for the jukebox which was right above my head was knackered & making some very odd noises. Saying thet the builders were in & a speaker can soon be fixed. I will definately be back probably dragging all my mates.
Nigel - 11 Nov 2003 10:56 |
Definitely not going to become a food-oriented pub. We've seen pubs go down that route before - very nice for a while, but it's far too easy to end up as a restaurant-with-beer instead of a pub-with-food.
We plan on doing _good_ food - everything freshly cooked, no re-heated frozen stuff - but nothing fancy. We're going to restrict the food serving times so that it's definitely a drinkers pub in the evening; we'll do food up to around 8pm and then stop.
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Good to hear about the kitchen -Should attract more people. Hope it doesn't become a food orientated pub though!
U.M.McEwan - 21 Sep 2003 20:54 |
Yes, baked potatos are currently the only non-snack food available. This is because our kitchen (and indeed the whole first floor) is full of builders. Once the kitchen's back in one piece we should be able to offer a full menu - hopefully in a month or so.
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Although it's at the back of beyond, this pub was well worth finding. An intended two hour visit became seven owing to the bitters, cider and bottled Belgian beers. Intend to tackle the malts another time. Friendly service, friendly punters, the downside was that baked potatoes were the only non-snack food available
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A worrying place. I always get lost when leaving due to excessive imbibing of some fantastic beers.
Draught beers great, as are the bottles, decent selection of whiskey, guaranteed seat, pool.
What else do you need?
Dave - 11 Sep 2003 17:15 |
Great. It goes to show just what can be done by the two friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgable guys who have taken this over. An array of 9 handpumps spans the bar where between 3 - 5 well kept real ales from micros are available (including some from Milton Brewery) at the moment plus a real cider. More beers promised when trade increases even more. Interesting bottled stuff also. All made welcome here. Well worth seeking out.
Ben S. King - 7 Sep 2003 22:41 |
A fine real ale pub, excellent beers with a varying selection of guest ales on top of the regular (and very enjoyable) milton brews. Friendly staff and locals, well worth a visit
Malandro - 28 Aug 2003 01:33 |
The Oakdale now has a friendly, informal pub quiz on Thursday evenings. First prize for a team is �20 of drinks; second prize is �10 of drinks. The quiz doesn't cost anything to enter - just turn up.
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Met Steve at GBBF, He's a nice bloke, if this is half as good as Coalheavers then I'll be a regular.
TC - 13 Aug 2003 18:52 |
Possibly te best real ale pool pub in London
Michael - 7 Aug 2003 18:42 |
Yes, we're the same people that run the Coalheavers in Peterborough. (Speaking of which, I'm just about to get on a train and go there to run it over the weekend while Bruce and Steph have a short holiday...)
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Is this related to the Coalheavers in Peterborough?
I heard that they were opening in London.
TopCat (Mr Jinx) - 30 Jul 2003 19:32 |
Doh!! That should have been it was a desert of pisswater before the new management took over
Fruedean slip perhaps ;-)
Ian - 30 Jul 2003 13:33 |
Speaking as a regular at the Oakdale I am probably a bit biased. However I was a desert of pisswater before the new managment took over. It's now a vast improvement and most of the regulars are taking to the ale with a vengance.
Ian - 30 Jul 2003 13:31 |
After reading previous comments I decided to hunt this place down. Not an easy task as it is in the middle of a residential/industrial area a fair walk from any train or tube station. But it is well worth the walk and the location makes what they are trying to achieve all the more laudable. This is a pub that really wants to be a pub and give its customers what they want. The beers are mainly from the Milton Brewery and when I visited, there were two bitters, a mild and a stout on, all very good. Add to that a guest beer, a real cider and continental draft/bottled beers & lagers and there�s something for everyone. This is the sort of place you�d love to have next door but it�s certainly worth travelling to, if you can get a mate to drive you there then so much the better. I really hope this place succeeds, it certainly deserves to.
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A superb session last night! The beer was excellent.
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Whats this? Sounds excellent. Too good to be true infact! Must visit and support it: Hope it is as good as it sounds!
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I am the new licensee of this pub, and we are trying really hard to turn it into something a little bit different. We have 8 handpumps - plus Real Cider on our main bar, a large selection of Belgian and continental beers and a whole array of single malts.
Still a lot of work to do, but we are here for the duration, so please come and visit us - happy hour Mon-Fri 5-7 - all real beers �1.70!
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Rising from the ashes of a pub that previously had no real ale, this is an enterprising and courageous move by the Milton brewery to establish new, but traditional PROPER pub in London. I am sure that all visitors to this pub will join me in wishing them all the success in the world. I visited pub on its opening last Friday (27th June 2003) and had the pleasure of tasting Milton's Jupiter and Pegasus brews in the company of the head brewer. The opening of this pub is the best news this year!
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