please note - reviews on this site are purely the opinion of site visitors, so don't take them too seriously.
I do like this bar.
I haven't seen it in its hayday, so maybe nothing to compare it too. It does seem to have a bit of a 'Sports Bar' Feel to it, almost comparable to Walkabout in some respects, but the atmosphere is more down to earth, if still loud
However, has a decent range of Canadian Beers on offer, and thats worth the voyage of discovery alone
Something original to try in this grand neck of the woods
|
Massive downhill slide , this is not the famous maple leaf anymore, wont be back for the warm weasels wee that was passed as beer. also there were no Canadian brews on draught the day we went there
|
I have a Canadian friend who successfully convinced me that Canada had a national day on July 1st (oh yes they do - and I recommend going). A number of first time experiences hit me upon visiting there which made me a convert
1. Sleemans Honey Beer. Lovely stuff. On tap
2. Moosehead
3. Wings
There seems to be a beautiful amount in common with Canada and the UK and not just the fact you bow to our queen like the good commonwealth citizens you are : o ) It's touches like the decor - hockey shirts everywhere depicting an ideal world when Canada were world beaters in the sports, Gretsky played for the Leaves, and it's wonderful hearing about all this history that, like England with Cricket, Football, etc etc. has vanished from the face of the planet. So apart fromt he beer being steep, it has a good feel to the place, the sport is always on, and I even found myself enjoying an ice hockey game. Baseball however...
Unfortunately this was 3 years ago.
Now, alas, the beer is still expensive, though oddly not always available. The place is a dirty tourist trap with a stuffed bear to represent 'Canadian' culture. Seriously, what has happened? I was pround to share banter with fellow sports viewers (even if I didn't totally understand the rules to baseball or hockey) yet nowthis pub doesn't even have half the beers on tap and worse - worse still - it mocks the country that makes it a theme bar.
Avoid. Avoid at all costs. And boycott it on July 1st.
|
Plastic, cheap and tacky is the only way to sum up this 'Canadian themed' bar. I paid a visit here to The Maple Leaf, with my girlfriend last Thursday evening (April 12th) and although I wasn't expecting much, this place still disappointed. The d�cor is appalling and the whole bar is rather untidy and run-down. There are screens scattered about showing what I presume was Canadian ice hockey, but aside from that and the one draught Canadian larger on offer, there was nothing to really link it with the country. I don't think a moose's head on the wall and fake wood beams really cuts it to be honest. Not particularly recommended.
HTM69 - 16 Apr 2007 19:14 |
To be honest I didn�t even notice that this was a Canadian pub; I thought it was just a sports bar. Maybe I missed the Canadian link due to the little fort that had been built out of pint glasses and placed around me!
The friend who suggested meeting at this place got deservedly slated, just a shame I was the first there and had to stay for an hour whilst everyone showed up.
Strongbow was good, but it took a while to get served and whilst I was downstairs having a leak someone stole my pint. As you can probably imagine I will not be going back.
|
Only popped in for the one
I didn't ever visit the Maple Leaf in its hay day, so sounds like Ive missed an experience. Was disappointed that there was no Molsen on tap, as this was one of the first beers to ever grace my lips... and not done since in ten years, as its done a vanishing act...
Seemed okay on my visit, staff very friendly although there was a few minutes when me and a mate thought we were going to be ignored...
All in all, an okay in-and-out job...
|
Talk about a Pub losing its way! The New owners have torn the heart and soul out of the place.
I whole heartedly agree with Topdog and Ganger. This pub has gone from a part of Canada in London to just another tacky Sports bar wannabe with the only thing making it "Canadian" now is the name (which the new owners will probably change) a couple of token bottled Canadian beers and a stray Hockey Jersey on the wall.
The Muppets (that'd be the new owners) even had the audacity to cull the only thing good left in the Maple Leaf. Monday Night Wings! And, the only thing Canadian left on the now run-of-the-mill Pub menu is a section of Canadian Fare located in a small section of the menu where I think they want you to miss it! I think this is thier last ditch effort to phase the Canadian Soul out of the Leaf.
After being a regular here for 3 years - you won't be seeing me back through the doors!
|
Hear hear Ganger! I was here for the first time in about 2 years on Saturday (after years of gradually growing more and more dismayed with the place), only to remember why I stopped going there.
The selection of Canadian beers is awful - I wouldn't be caught dead drinking any of them back home. Also, if you're only going to carry about 4-5 Canadian beers, why duplicate two of them by having them available both on tap and in bottle (Sleeman's Honey Brown and Molson Canadian)?
They've also stripped the "Canadian" menu, and replaced with bog-standard pub fare, bar 4-5 token items.
So...what makes this a Canadian pub now? Fake log walls, a mountie outfit, a stuffed bear, and sports memorabilia for teams that don't even exist anymore (Quebec Nordiques/Montreal Expos).
Lame, and embarrassing.
|
Went there last saturday (The first time in 10yrs!) and found the place to be drab and souless. Asked the barman who sounded Canadian for a pint of Molson and after getting the pint glass ready he told me "Oh the molson is off!!" I then asked for a pint of canadian instead "Oh that's off as well!" .. So have you got any canadian beer i replied. "Well we've got moosehead in bottles" Came the reply.
What has happened to this place over the decade that i last drank here? It used to be a warm cosy inviting pub that sold the tastiest beer in the area, but now it seems to have lost it's way. This pub used to be a proud happy & confident fellow but now it's like someone who has been evicted, living on the streets who can't look themselves in the mirror in the morning!
|
Busy and full of idiots. We weren't impressed at all and won't be going back.Warm wine and cack beer. Avoid it.
|
I cant say much about the Maple Leaf, its gets busy, has some Canadian memorabilia dotted around, and has a couple of Canadian brews available.
I was in there last night, the barman was more interested in serving the women than who ever was next, the barmaid was more interested in continuing her banal conversation with a couple of regulars propping up the bar, not even breaking conversation as she served me, call me old fashioned, but that is bad service.
beer tasted alright, but there are far better boozers to go within spitting distance of this place.
Oh and they are quick to kick you out at the end of the night.
|
I worked at the ML from 88-90 and can absolutely attest that the success of the pub during that era was due almost entirely to the Manager, Noel Healy. Although an Irishman himself, Noel took the time to travel to Canada on a number of occasions to learn something about the culture and people, as well as to collect authentic memorabilia for the pub. He also hired staff who, while not exclusively Canadian, had a good attitude and appreciated that it was a Canadian pub. The ML was probably the busiest in the West End during that era (perhaps matched only by TGI Friday's down the road) yet the service remained excellent and the atmosphere terrific. I visited the ML while on business in 2004 and am sad to say that, even factoring in a personal bias, the atmosphere was just not the same. So for anyone that worked or patronized the ML during that era, I intend to contact Noel in Ireland and see if a 20 year reunion can be planned for around Canada Day 2008. I know I would make the journey in a flash, and expect that a lot of other proud Canadians (and those English Canadian wannabe's we knew and loved - you know who you are) who frequented the 'Leaf' during that era would make it too. And I would personally guarantee that Noel would be there for such a reunion. In closing, someone on this thread said that it was the people that make a pub. I wholeheartedly agree. However, Noel Healy managed to make the Maple Leaf the whole package-the people, the food, the beer, the atmosphere, the decor. They say you can't go back but if Noel would take the ML over again I would seriously consider give up practising law and get back "behind the jump".
|
A solid enough, if unspectacular pub. As per the name there's a Canadian theme going on but to be honest it still looks and feels just like any other British pub and judging by the chat of the boy who started chatting to me on the way up from the jacks, has it's fair share of local barflies as well as lots of Canadians in too see the hockey from the night before.
Unlike other horror reviews, the hockey was on at the right time & we even managed to get seats with a good view of a screen (which I believe wouldn't have happened back in the day). We were drinking Molson Dry which was fine but I've got the feeling it was just some random British brew with a Molson sticker on the tap. I had the poutine which was decent enough but just didn't taste the same with British style gravy on it!
|
This used to be a great bar, service was excellent and the food good. Past 4 months or so have seen the service slide downhill. 2 good things about this bar, bottle of white wine @ �7.50 and George! Where has he gone?
|
Not a very impressive place. I'm not Canadian so can't speak to whether it accurately sums up memories of the mother country for UK based Canadians, but as a pub it's below average - only one real ale when I was there, which was (a) not in good condition; and (b) at 8pm on a Friday evening, served in a plastic glass. I'm afraid this epitomises the paucity of good pubs in the West End. I should say though that some hockey was showing on at least one telly when I was in there (perhaps because no football was on at the time...)
|
The only thing this place has going for it is it's Canadian theme. The bar service was terrible, thank gosh for the hockey on the TV.... Dont go if you are thirsty
anonymous - 9 Oct 2006 13:35 |
One word to describe the maple leaf - debacle.
The terrible service starts on entry... try and get someone to serve you. A megaphone or whistle may attract a passing glance from the staff.
Persistence may enable you to order some food. This does not guarantee the food will arrive, or if in fact the food you receive is what you ordered. Experience says that it wont be. Complex orders such as burger and chips should be avoided to save confusion for the kitchen and wait staff.
A word of advice. It appears that simple arithmetic is also a difficult proposition. Check your bill, it may include a few special items you didnt order, or might simply just not add up.
So if you do go, take a good luck charm. Failing that, just dont go.
anonymous - 27 Jun 2006 14:29 |
When I first moved to London, the Maple Leaf was great. There were friendly Canadians behind the bar and they understood their roots. I have no idea what's become of it these days. With the NHL finally back in action this year, I just wanted my hockey fix once a week on Sundays. Every time I went to watch, it wasn't on. Either 1) They forgot to tape it (get Sky+ already), 2) They messed up the taping (see point 1) 3) They showed the games 4hours earlier than advertised or 4) there was something more important on tv (madness).
Word to the wise for the current management: Canadians like to watch hockey. Every single Canadian I've met who's been in London for over six months have the exact same horror stories about trying to watch hockey at the Maple Leaf.
If you want to watch hockey next season, go the Famous 3 Kings. They've got TVs at every angle, digitally recorded games and friendly staff. They even stayed open for the NHL finals - fully licensed.
|
As a Canadian, I was pleased to discover a bar that caters to my countrymen.
I regularly met my Canadian friends there and I was pleased to hear Canuck accents all around me.
However, things fell to pieces one Sunday last April when I ventured across London to watch the replay of two Hockey Playoff games. Five minutes before the end of one and the start of another, the bartender suddenly switched the channel to football. 20 people rushed to the bar, and speaking with Canadian accents pleaded with her to switch the Hockey on. She refused. I have not been back since.
I understand football is the favorite sport for the English, but with thousands of pubs showing football, why must the Maple leaf do so also. Furthermore, when the majority of the customers traveled great distances to watch hockey surrounded by their compatriots, the bitter refusal to switch back to hockey is baffling.
It is a very poor Canadian bar that does not cater to Canadians. Cheesy decorations and chicken wings do not make a Canadian bar, Canadians do.
|
Unfortunately bland.
Molson beer is better in a bottle than draught anyhow. Food is poor.
An underacheiving establishment in a prime location.
|
Ughhh! How horrible. How boring.
anonymous - 10 Jun 2006 12:11 |
Plastic-log cabin with bad taste carpet. What a groove. Baseball on the big screen. Plastic, but relaxed. Not that interesting, but worth checking out.
|
Nice to see canuck30 and canadian_animal perpetuating the Ontario controlled media stereotypes of Western Canadians and Quebecers. The reality is very much different. Try travelling in Canada instead of reading the glob&fail. That's one of the reasons I left.
As for the pub, its just an ordinary watering hole that is extremely tacky in its effort to look Canadian. The food is good and priced about what you would expect in tourist central. Imported beer is always going to be expensive. Its fun and good for when one is homesick or wanting to watch hockey. Thank God for the Sleemans. The second best beer for a hot day. (Gimmee Big Rock any day). Oh and for really homesick Canadians, Clacket Lane services on the M25, has Tim Horton's. (-:
|
Nice place, took my 75yo mother in here and she loved it, she has never been abroad but she now thinks all Canadians are the loveliest people in the world, so much better than the Anzacs in the Walkabout
|
Surely this is very last pub someone who emanates from Canada would wish to vist.
With all its boring Canadian decor it furthers the stereotype and dated view of that country ('I'm a lumberjack and I don't care!' etc.)
Most who have left Canada want to leave this sort of stuff behind forever.
I myself believe that The Maple Leaf is located in covenant Garden in an attempt to attract Canadian tourists visiting London who are stupid enough to go there!
anonymous - 18 Mar 2006 12:30 |
I have mixed feelings about this place. On the downside - it's patronisingly Canadian. I mean really - a stuffed bear in the corner? Mountie uniforms on the wall? Canadians have enough trouble fighting off stereotypes in this city without its only representative pub re-enforcing them. On the plus side, it's finally got Sleemans beers, after years of only selling Molson's products. Finally - Canadian beers I'm not embarrassed to buy for people!
|
Reading through the long list of threads it is no wonder so many wars are fought between nations. So much "we are better than you" mentality.
The Maple Leaf is a pub. It serves beer. It serves food. It serves spirits. People drink there. People eat there. Its theme is Canadian. Go there and expect Hockey. Go to the Walkabout expect rugby. Go to an English pub and expect football. What is so hard to understand about this concept?
I like it as well as thousands of other people. Staff can be both friendly and unfriendly. We've all, more or less, worked in a bar at some point. And when you were standing behind the beer taps, you gave as good as you got. Maybe we should question who's being rude to who sometimes.
As for pushy and ignorant people? Ever take the Tube? How about walking down Oxford street at 5pm? All the rude people there are Canadian right? Yup! right along side the British, Americans, Australians, Kiwis, Chinese, Indians, Aficans and the rest of the world.
Point is, the place is someones take on the tradtions of a country that they are proud of. They do the things that other Canadians will enjoy when they visit. When a Canadian steps into the place they feel more familiar. Just like the Aussies at the Walkabout, S. Africans at the Springbok...etc.
To the Canadians that harp on about the ML showing football, rugby, cricket...well the ML may be "ours" but it is also everyone elses. We ARE in Britain and hockey is just not as popular as we would like it to be. Chill out..at least we don't have to wait till 1:30am every Wednesday to see it on channel 5. Its a business at the end of the day and the fact that so many regulars there are NOT Canadian is a compliment in itself. How about do what I do: CALL if you are aching to see the Flames win this time (sorry, had to slip that in). Just so you don't show up and be all ticked off chuckin your "toys-out-the-pram" because there is no hockey that night.
I think its a great pub with good beer and good food good atmosphere but slightly pricey. If I am going to go all patriotic, I'd say that the best reflection of Canada that the ML has, is its acceptance of people from ANY nation...good, bad, rude, polite. Kind of like how the rest of our FREE nations are and should be.
So...drink your beer, party with friends and have a great time. If its not at the 'Leaf then go to the 'Bout or the 'Bok or anywhere for that matter.
Easy!
anonymous - 15 Feb 2006 03:40 |
One of the best places in london! Watch out for the 25p a wing night on mondays!!!
|
Whenever i'm in covent garden i will always pop into this friendly no hassle pub.
|
Being originally from Holland, but having lived in Canada for a long time, and most of my friends now considering me 'Canadianized', I was probably the closest to a Canadian in The Maple Leaf. Where do you all hang out? Apart from that, it was a nice bar, but to say it was something special... probably not. I guess it is about your average English 'pub', with the only difference being the Toronto Maple Leaf shirts & bats on the walls.
|
Too much smoke. Probably OK for sport judging by the number of tvs. Ale was good. Nothing special
|
The food is surprisingly good if a bit expensive. Staff is very friendly. They only have one cask bitter but it's a good one - Courage's Best. Extremely difficult to find a table in the evening and impossible if there's ever any hockey on the TV.
|
What a mixed response to this place , as a true kiwi, i would not be seen dead in a walkabout so this is the only other decent sports bar in the area, beers are fine , service was fine , staff were fine, food was great, steak for me. and didnt encounter any dodgy customers. always worth a visit when in covent garden. although they could screen more nfl.
|
I have been going to this pub since 2001 while visiting London and waiting for my mate to finish her day as a casting agent. Always had a good pint and good conversations with the bartenders. Clean and safe (no dodgy looking chaps looking for a pick). Don't know if I would make it my boozer for the night, but spent quite a few times sucking down pints.
|
Good, Canadian themed pub. Canadians have to be the friendliest people in the world! This place is nothing special, but definitely worth spending the odd night in.
|
Interesting pub this. Yeah, it's a fake 'foreign'pub, but not nearly as annoying as walkabout or o'neills.
Good point re. Alexander Keith's- it needs some.
Also, although it is great it has poutine, I don't think they use the right cheese.
Could be better, but could be a whole lot worse.
|
So now it's a Brit complaining about this pub. Sorry, but there was ONLY English football and cricket on the telly(s). The Brits and Canadians all sat there not wanting to complain when halfway through the night the music was switched off and some Newcastle game was broadcast on all twelve tellys around the bar, at full volume.
We asked for it to be turned down but wasn't. Even with punters leaving in their droves the bar staff didn't take the hint that perhaps no-one but the Geordie Manager was interested in the match. We were hoping to stay for the Wings and more Sleeman's, but couldn't hear ourselves speak above the "cheering fans" of St James' Park.
I didn't realise this was just another English sports bar (as if there weren't enough of those in London already). Pity, it could be so much more - something that better represents the greatness of the Canucks (cricket and english football really isn't it).
anonymous - 4 Aug 2005 09:26 |
I love the Maple Leaf. It's just what I need when I need a small reminder of home and I go to drink Canadian beer, watch hockey and listen to the Hip (sigh).
To all those Australians - the name might just give it away, but this is a Canadian pub, not an Aussie one (please keep going down the street to the Walkabout). It's not to show English football and complaining about this just is ridiculous. If you don't like it, then don't go, but the pub isn't really for Aussie's is it? That's the point. It's not a taste of Canada, but with English football and Aussies.
I have never experienced the staff to be rude or slow, and if this is true, then the rest of London is 10 times worse. The only thing I would say is that lately the staff haven't been Canadian which is disappointing, but if Canadians aren't working in the pub that's not down to the pub itself.
Can't wait for Canada Day. Oh and by the way, it will be Canada Day to celebrate Canada.
anonymous - 29 Jun 2005 15:32 |
There's always haters and it's interesting how common their words and even spelling mistakes often are ;)
As a Canadian in London, I look forward to seeing everyone at Canada House (3-6pm) and then the 'Leaf on July 1st :D
|
As a Canadian in London, I obviously have a a little bias, but this is a great pub! Good food, good beer, good sports (football AND hockey - it doesn't get better).
As for the complaints, it usually seems to be the Aussies complaining, possibly because the Maple Leaf is much more popular than the nearby generic Walkabout. Otherwise, it's angry Americans. C'est la vie.
The Leaf is a great spot for hanging out with friends, watching a game, or just grabbing a quick pint.
|
Not the traditional British pub. More North American as a result you find patrons from all around the world. The best street party in London on July 1st every year. If you are not there by noon bring your own beer join the street party
|
It's not really my sort of place - too much ice hockey/American sports on the tvs - but not too bad a pub. Service is alright and people are as friendly as in most London pubs (make of that what you will). I'm not a big fan of American/Canadian beer, so wouldn't be high on my list of places to go to. But I guess I'm not really the target audience, so no complaints.
|
hi, wonder if the maple leaf is showing the Memorial Cup or the Calder Cup playoffs this weekend? (Both are hockey tournaments, OF COURSE...)
Look forward to getting feedback from those that know - a nice friendly message regarding this topic from the pub staff would be a great help ;-)
cheers, people
anonymous - 19 May 2005 20:29 |
I was really surprised to see so many negative comments about this pub. I think its a great pub - friendly staff, ice cold beer - ice hockey and good food!! Only minus for me is not Labatts!
anonymous - 13 May 2005 12:18 |
Wow - as a Canadian who lives in London, I am finding some of these posts quite insulting and uncalled for. For one, anytime I have been to the Maple Leaf, only about 5% of the customers are actually Canadian. The rest are Americans, Aussie's, Kiwi's, Brit's, etc. So, just because someone is rude to you in that pub, don't automatically assume that they are Canadian. That said, I have never had a bad experience there.
Also, I am sure that this Quebecer comment came from someone who lives in Western Canada and has never even met a French Canadian. I come from Ottawa, worked in Quebec for 8 years, and have met and become friends with a lot of Quebecers who are fantastic people. I would like to assure any Quebecer that reads this thread that not all Canadians discriminate against them the way Canadian_Animal does.
It is very unfortunate that this had to turn into a Canadian bashing thread rather than a thread where one rates a pub which is what it is supposed to be. For those of you who are bashing Canadians for being arrogant and rude, I think you should look at your own behaviour on this site before judging another Nationality.
So, back to rating a pub. I like to go to the Maple Leaf to watch the hockey games that I can't watch elsewhere. Line-up at the bar is generally horrendous and service is slow. But, if you want to get some Canadian Beer and watch a bit of hockey, I highly recommend it. Just get a double round when at the bar because otherwise you will waste half your time in a line-up.
|
Enough with the Canadian bashing already!
This is a nice pub full of a good mix of international drinkers and should be judged on it's own merits. Besides which the punters at this place seem to be an entirely different bunch everytime I pop in as is the case with most West End Pubs. Sorry that you bumped into some rude Canadians on your visit guys but try the pub again sometime and you may find it full of a more friendly crowd as I have on every one of my visits. Never trust anonymous reviews from people having a pop at those from different nations or cultures!!!!
P.s.Toronto is not a toilet(That's Calgary!) and the Quebecers are not as bad...as all that...really...honest...nope...no siree bob!
|
Wow!
After reading all of these posts, I'm shocked! Is this pub really THAT bad?
I'll be in London within the next 2 weeks and was told that The Maple Leaf was the first place I should check out.
Fisrt of all... Don't judge us Canadians by what you see in Toronto, we don't like that toilet any more than you do.
These rude Canadians you keep mentioning... by chance, were they french? :o)
I think you need to realize that Canadians are NOT the super-polite, party animal, fun people that we're made out to be... some Canadians are REAL jerks! We call them Quebecers! Thet're easy to spot, always drinking pepsi and eating poutines! If you see one, don't feed it, it'll follow you home!
I really hope this pub is a fun place to grab a pint... although I plan on visiting every pub I see, I'd like to make the Maple Leaf my final and most adventurous stop.
Cheers! See you all in a couple of weeks!
|
Don't really like this place at all. Full of loud arrogant Canadians in here. Plus the staff in here are really bad. Rather go down to the Springbok or Walkabout were u can at least have a lough.
anonymous - 12 Apr 2005 21:17 |
Don't go to this. Horrible place to drink. Staff are not friendly and rude Canadian people in here.
anonymous - 24 Mar 2005 23:27 |
Great Canadian pub. Best in the winter when it's cold outside, watching Ice Hockey on the screens supping on a cold Molson's draught.
|
Not a good bar. Rude bar staff.
|
When my Mam visited me from Manchester I took her into pubs around C. Garden to get a feel of the place on a Saturday night. She hated Walkabout, & most of the others, but I took her into the Leaf & she felt right at home.
A great Canadian Pub that shows the Saffas, Kiwis, Septics, and Whining Aussies how to have a great weekend without battering each others heads in (I would use the term brains, but...), if you want cold beer and a warm welcome and atmosphere Visit a small piece of Canada
|
Ok, you might think that I'm slightly biased due to my English/Canadian dual nationality which was always likely to draw me to this pub, but I genuinely think it is one of, if not the outright best pub(s) in the West End. A lovely friendly bar populated by natives of London, Canada and beyond that serves good Canadian beers including Molson Candian, Molson Dry (both on draft as well as in bottles), Moosehead and Sleeman's (no Kokanee or Rickard's which is a shame)and shows the Hockey. The food is nice and reasonably priced. Candaiana in the form of Hockey memorabilia and a Mountie uniform adorns the walls and the back of the pub is decorated so as to resemble a log cabin, all of which may sound tacky but actually works really well. Barstaff are friendly and efficient, prices are a little steep but where else are you going to get a pint of Canadian in London? Good for a relatively quite drink and a bite to eat on midweek days, but also good for a more lively night out at weekends.
|
As an Australian, I love this pub. It's never overly crowded so as you can get a seat. The Molsen Dry (on tap!) is a fantastic lager, better any of the Stella/Fosters rubbish. The food is good, make sure you try out the puteien (not sure how to spell it, it's the chips + cheese + gravy, a typical french canadian dish). Stay away from 'Ceasers' it's a drink similar to a bloody mary - except they use 'Clamato' juice, disgusting!
Great vibe, good + friendly staff. Skip the walkabout people, go straight here. Bring back the NHL!
I rate this pub highly due to the vibe, and mostly friendly people that frequent it (yes I have met some Canadians in here!)
|
This pub is fantastic. I go there very often for the Canadian Molsten Dry beer and the brilliant pub atmosphere. The Canadians rule!
Luke - 3 Nov 2004 12:23 |
Cannae belive the cr@p that Bill Oakley has been writing about the Leaf underneath. If you want a pub thats full of the Irish bar staff GO TO IRELAND !!!!!! Nugget.
Jayne, Scotty and the rest of the staff are tip top as far as I am concerned. Whenever I am in they are always pleasant, helpfull and most of all, cheery and full of chat. Plus they do a damm fine pint of Molson. ( When they don't run out that is !!!!!!!!! They should have a dedicated train link that runs from Liverpool docks down to the Leaf.) Then again you have to buy the Canadian. Not a bad substitute.
Cannae speak highly enough of the bar and the guys that work in it. As for the sports side of thing any bar that shows a worldwide mixture of sport and does not just stick to the run of the mill is fine in my book. Jees they even show the Rangers and Celtic games when they are on.
Big thumbs up to the Leaf.
Big Colin - 27 Oct 2004 22:05 |
Hockeys a load of c***??
Im sorry but im english and as far as i am concerned soccer/football is the p**** sport in this contest and as for cricket it not suprising that the only way people get though the day is to sneek boose into the Oval. What kinda game goes on for the whole day.
Of all the things to call hockey you cant say pathetic, I could understand violent but not pathetic. Id like to see all you metro football fans give it a go. Lets see how long you'll last.
Were meant to be talking about the quality of the bar here not the quality of the sport played in each country. I was in Canada during the Euro, the bar down the street was one of the only ones my friends could find that were playing it. As many others have said - if you want football go to a bar that will show it. This is the only bar i know that shows hockey (if they manage to play at all this season!) and I dont have satellite. Surely you must understand that. If we were in canada right now in a british bar you wouldnt have a load of cunucks bi****** and moaning about there only being soccer on and having to miss the hockey game, theyd have the sense to move to a bar that did if that was really all they cared about.
If you dont like the place or want to watch something else on the TV then go somewhere else to do it. All the Aussies who are complaining about hockey - go to the walkabout, as you all said its just down the road.
Oh and if anyone has a complaint about the beer im sure i can tell you all at least one beer that is reknowned from being from each one of your countries that tastes like warmed up p***.
I think this web site is demonstrating something in a much better way than its attempting to review this pub - The British Moan tooo GD much! (and I have to say that seems to go for the aussies too)
I have lived in canada, my best friend is australian, my boyfriend is Kiwi, and most of my friends are south african. I am not being racist towards any of you Im just saying stop complaining, realise that imported beer will be more expensive ($7.50 for a pint of strongbow in toronto anyone?), and allow us to watch canadian sports in the canadian pub, and next time try reviewing the actual pub not what sport is on as if thats all that matters to you then you can go somewhere else that will show the sport you want to watch with your manky carlsberg for �1.78 and stop whining about this place, it makes me ashamed to be british.
Gem - 25 Oct 2004 09:19 |
Definitely not a shadow on it's former self. Used to drink there regularly in the 80s when it was managed and staffed by a friendly Irish and Canadian crew.
Now I head in, the service is ungodly slow, even during quieter hours and some sour faced woman on a power surge will refuse to serve you drinks just before 11 (you're second- just to point out)so she can have you cold in the street by 10 past.
Canada day is still mental but it's the atmosphere outside thats been generated by tradition rather than the efforts of the bar that make it special
Bill Oakley - 20 Oct 2004 11:39 |
my friends and i went there this summer, and we made it our regular monday night pub for wings. we introduced our aussie friends to poutine, wings, canadian beer, and canadian music. great place when you're feelin homesick
erin - 4 Oct 2004 17:02 |
The best bar I've been too in forever....and I'M AMERICAN....
JF - 10 Sep 2004 05:08 |
The Maple Leaf is a good time. It hosts hot chicks, hot wings, social environment, and most importantly hockey. None of that cricket crap (I hope not anyway, I'd be ashamed). The beer is over priced but it's cold and delicious... By the way, when are you guys getting Okanogan Pale Ale? And Canada Day is filled with belligerent Canadians singing, laughing, and falling in a drunken stupor... So, what I'm trying to say is that it's a not bad hangout... for a theme bar anyway.
Devon - 9 Sep 2004 15:12 |
Not a very friendly bar. Service too slow and drinks overpriced. Full of loud Canadians bitching on how they are the best in the world. Customers were rude as well and dont even apologize when they bump into you. Went past there on Canada day and was a nightmare with swear words all over the place. Also like to say a big "f... you" to that Canadian girl who bumped into me and gave me such a dirty look. Avoid this place.
Jason - 28 Aug 2004 14:21 |
Best pub in London? Right. �12 for a pitcher of Moslon - rip off. I wouldn't pay that in Canadian dollars. Also, in the 6 times i have been there in the last 6 months, the CD player is ALWAYS skipping. Cant they spend the �10 to buy a new one? Steer clear friends. Steer clear. Try the Cittie of York instead just off of Holborn Tube.
mcnuts - 27 Aug 2004 15:40 |
The ginger ponce appears to be erroneous yet again. Molson is on draft, or at least it was, at the last three visits. Great bar, why do some people feel the need to bitch for their own sake?
John (not ginger) - 25 Aug 2004 00:36 |
Best pub in London. Excellent selection of Canadian beers; never thought I'd see Sleeman's Honey Brown on sale in the UK. Lovely atmosphere and service was very good. Highly recommended.
Kay - 17 Aug 2004 13:42 |
Disappointing. Used to do Molson on draft - Don't do anymore, drinks selection now identikit. Which is pretty pointless when this is meant to be a Canadian bar.
TheGP - 10 Aug 2004 15:50 |
fantastic cheap bufallo wings great atmoshere and great location
Laura Dixon - 27 Jul 2004 16:47 |
Went to the Maple Leaf for Canada Day, it was absolutely GREAT! Even though there was about 50 people trying to order at the bar at once it took maybe 3 minutes to get served, also staff was friendly considering the rush. The street party was way more than I expected it to be and big kudos to anyone in another country making a party out of a special day for Canucks. Even the cops were making the most out of it and joined right in by wearing maple leaf ties and the silly looking paper helmuts...yes I admit I wore one too. Great day, great pub will definately go back next time and every time I'm in London
Brandi - 18 Jul 2004 10:38 |
This pub is great! I was so glad to finally find some Molson beer, even if it wasnt in a bottle. The buffalo wings were awesome and it made me feel like I was back at home. Definatly a great pub!
Kim - 11 Jul 2004 12:53 |
This place was fantastic. Was in here for a drink or two with my girlfriend back in January, and really brought back some fond memories of home! Staff were polite and served us in a reasonable amount of time, not sure where all these bad comments are coming from, considering the standard of service in other places in London! Will definately be back next time I am down in London!!
|
As a warning to any Canadians new to London, who are planning on dining in The Maple Leaf on Canada Day...forget it. About 4,000 people turn up each year, and unless you get there in the morning/early afternoon, you've got little hope of getting inside the pub. Saying that, the street party is awesome, and well worth going to, even if you're not Canadian.
Party on!
Andrew - 28 Jun 2004 15:54 |
As a Canadian living and working in London for two months. I must say that though it may not be like the bars back home it still is a wonderfully refreshing experience; especially when compared to the suit and tie pubs that seem to house pissed and rowdy professionals. I took my boyfriend there for a bit of the canadian experience and not only did he get addicted to the buffalo wings but also realized that Canadian beer is much stronger than English beer after walking out on wobbly legs. I think the Maple Leaf is a great taste of home and I think that it's a bit judgemental and high-and-might to expect any nationality specific bar in a foreign country to be identical to bars in the country it is aiming to mirror. All it intends to be is good fun and a bit of a taste of home when u feel like a foreigner. The Maple Leaf is wonderful and I plan to spend Canada Day there with a pound of wings and a bottle of Sleemans.
|
This is a cool enough place. I'm sure to a lot of canadians it'd be like going in an "English" pub abroad for me but it's got a good selection of beers, lots of tvs and some good food. The staff are friendly, and I even didn't get annoyed when I ordered some food that was forgotten about for an hour, not even when I was told that the kitchen had then since shut. But they reopened and gave me some food, and some beers for compensation.
Going back there tonight to watch the England v Portugal match. I'm hoping that it won't be rammed with one-night-only supporters because of the Canadian aspect.
Keen - 24 Jun 2004 16:01 |
Kimberley Bean, you must have seen the 'I am Canadian' beer adverts! I always have fun in the Maple Leaf and haven't had any service related problems that irk me...just go, relax and enjoy a little bit of Canadian beer...Alexander Keith's if they still have it! Oh and I didn't hear an 'aboot' or 'eh' in the bar either!
Justin - 14 Jun 2004 22:58 |
I loved the couple of visits I have had to the Maple Leaf and so have my guests. I was checking on the July 1st festivities and stumbled into this comment section. I agree that there weren't that many other CDNs when I went but I have always had a good time.
Susan - 10 Jun 2004 18:41 |
I am a (Vancouver) Canadian, and have been living in London for a month. I have done my very best to represent what I feel are the core values of a good Canadian. I am considerate, politically correct, and polite almost to a fault. If you bump into me I turn around an apologize for being in your way. If you give me a dirty look I worry about what I did to offend you. I never use racial slurs, I'm not pushy, and I frequently give up my seat on the tube for elderly and pregnant people. That is what being Canadian means to me.
I would just like to say how dissapointing and hurful it is to read entries making generalizations about Canadians. True, there are bad apples in every barrel, but I don't think that gives anyone the right to paint the entire country. I am proud to be a Canadian, and I am ashamed of everyone here that felt the need to be spiteful.
The point of having a Canadian bar is to have a rallying point where we can find those little things we miss. I can't apologize for any possibly bad service, but I can say that everyone has a bad day once in a while. Remember that you've had yours too.
I plan on being at the Maple Leaf for Canada Day. I'm going to wear my flag and celebrate my country. I'm going to drink Molson, and eat poutine, and think of all the people back home who love me and miss me. You don't have to join me, but I do wish you would respect my right to be Canadian.
|
As a Canadian living in London for 7 years. This place has gone down hill. TOO MUCH FOOTY to bring in the crowds I guess and NOT enough hockey. Average food, ya it's got Moosehead. If you going to be a Canadian theme pub then behave like one. Otherwise call yourselves The Queens Head as your turning into just another Brit Pub.
|
This place used to have a fantastic &justified reputation back in the 80's. Now I avoid it &hop mext door to the Springbok &Aussie bars, everyone else I know feels the same. I'm surprised that the complaints are about the canadians - the few times i've been there in the last few years, it seems to have been over-taken by City boys getting hammered, & not a canadian accent anywhere.My cousin is in the BNL band& I met them all @their Hammersmith gig Thursday, it's just a shame I couldn't have recommended they head over to the Maple Leaf anymore as a great Canadian oasis in London. Anyone know if they're showing Game 5 tonight? From sounds of it, we'd be chucked out of the bar after the 1st period anyways (9p.m. start).
Tristan Embury - 2 May 2004 10:35 |
Good choice of drinks, clean and nicely busy. However, the staff were rude and inefficient behind the bar and the door staff have some manners to learn.
Tom - 26 Apr 2004 12:29 |
The maple leaf is a good solid pub... the staff are friendly, the molsons are cold and the chicken wings are the best in the city. And if you like ice hockey... its a must.
Morgan - 19 Apr 2004 17:50 |
was ushered out rudely at 11.15, having been served a pint at 11.
5 minutes after 11, the lights were on, and a man stood imposingly next to us. we moved to the front of the bar, only to be told to finish immediately at 11.15. absurd, rude and illegal.
larry - 27 Mar 2004 01:13 |
got utterly razzed in this place a couple of months back and loved it.
the grim reecer - 15 Mar 2004 08:15 |
Shame the London Knights aren't icing this season as this was a good gathering point for the fans.
Canada day at the Maple Leaf is *MENTAL*, but I'd recommend you take some of your own beer - the crates of beer they sell are way overpriced on that particular day :) Great atmosphere though.
Mark - 12 Mar 2004 20:51 |
Is this a pub review or a public airing of nationalistic generalisations? The Maple Leaf is a great pub for what it is - a theme pub in central London. The staff changes all the time, just like every other pub here, although the management has been the same for the last 5 years - and they are very friendly and welcoming, particularly if they get to know your face. I've even been invited out by some of the staff to "Hockey Nights". The chicken wings are fantastic; in fact my whole office, regardless of nationality, goes every few weeks to partake. If you are Canadian (I am) and like the beer, it's one of the few places in London to get a Molson. Sometimes they play Canadian bands, sometimes they don't. Sometimes they have hockey games on, sometimes they don't. But the beer is always cold, and the food always good. If that's what you want, give it a try.
Sharon Hupp - 5 Mar 2004 17:42 |
Don't even get me started on this place. 'Unwelcoming' doesn't do it justice, 'us and them' mentality is closer, 'downright rude' hits the nail on the head.
Alexis - 5 Mar 2004 13:42 |
This used to be a great pub in the 1980s, when Noel Healy was the manager. Monday nights, when players and fans from Streatham Redskins, Slough Jets, Lee Valley Lions and Romford Raiders, along with any number of Canadians who were 'just passing through', gathered to watch Saturday's HNIC game, were something really special. (In those pre-satellite days, Noel had persuaded Molson to courier the videos in each week.)
Sadly, Noel long ago returned to his native Ireland to run a restaurant and, despite (or maybe because of) a couple of makeovers, the Maple Leaf has gone steadily downhill.
The beer is overpriced, even by Central London standards; the 'music' is so unbearably loud as to make all attempts at conversation fruitless; the staff, to a man/woman have an attitude problem; worst of all, if you dare to remain on the premises for even one minute after 11 p.m., you will receive the aggressive and thoroughly unwelcome attentions of a pair of 'heavies' who would strike fear into the Kray twins themselves.
Avoid this pub at all costs. It's enough to make anybody a teetotaller.
|
I've been patronizing this pub on/off for about the last 6 years. I'm a citizen of the United States (vice simply an American which includes Mexicans and Canadians - no Mexico is not in South America) and married to a Brit. Being from way Upstate New York I've often been mistaken for a Canadian - usually by Brits that didn't realize New York is a State and not just a big city. Being mistaken for my northern cousins was never such a big deal until I visited this pub. I don't know if the stress of dealing with large crowds is the major contributing factor to rudeness but I've been here when its empty and packed and the bar staff seem to be much friendlier when they've got time to think. To give credit where credit is due, the Staff here are not the problem, its the Candadian Customers. I've been pushed more times in this pub by rude customers trying to get to the bar than any where else in London. When challenged its always a snide remark about his is our pub and if you don't like it - blah blah blah. The beer is overpriced but then so is all of London and that comes from someone that pays over �800 a week for rent. The Walkabout is a neat place but they are springing up all over London so not as unique as they may have been - plus now that we have "Outback" Steakhouses in the states, you Aussies aren't nearly as foreign anymore :) so do we really need another Walkabout? Being a huge hockey fan I would expect the Maple Leaf to show all the games which is why I orignally went there so if you want to see the Football or the Cricket or Rugby go to one of the millions of other places in the city those sports. What I will say to end this - to the staff of the ML - your Canadian Patrons are ruining your reputation and causing all these bad comments, you guys try and I recognize that. Lose the Canadian Girls Kick Ass t-shirts because every guy in the world knows that its just not true, Buffalo invented the chicken wing so don't try to replicate, immediately remove all Canadian Flags from your back-packs as we don't need to be reminded that you aren't from the states, get your shit in order because the states needs another victory so we've decided to put the Salvation Army to work and send them up to kick your ass.
The Empire State - 1 Mar 2004 11:40 |
Bloody brilliant - anyone complaining about rude staff is off their keel. As a Brit who attended the pub in the company of a Russian and a Italian, I can say that we three were greeted politely, were served in a reasonable time, and though it was a touch expensive and hockey was everywhere, surely that is to be expected in a CANADIAN pub in the heart of CG? All you Canadian lot can ignore the nonsense complaints floating about. Besides, anyone that had actually been to the pub would know that few of the staff are Canadian at all, and their attitude in no way reflects the attitude of Canadians. Me thinks, more likely, that a couple of the blokes whining and flogging here likely got their immi' papers rejected and are carrying a bit of a grudge.
Cheers
Tom Galloway - 20 Feb 2004 12:00 |
Having been in Canada and wanting to taste the beer for nostalgia sake I was pleased to see that it holds up very well. Especially the Moosehead which at just over �3 is not a bad price. It still drags me back when I want a good beer in a good pub.
Christian - 3 Feb 2004 18:56 |
can somebody let me know how often and when exactly they show hockey re-plays?
Dan - 1 Feb 2004 15:04 |
If you want a taste of Canada, the Maple Leaf is the place to go. The people there are OK. The ice hockey is a nice change from the football that you get in every other pub in Britain. No problems with the beer, it's something different from what Brits are used to. It's a pub that's sure to have every Canadian weeping with homesickness. For everyone else its a little peice of Canada in a box, gift wrapped. Suck it and see.
Steve - 13 Jan 2004 13:29 |
I worked at the pub from Dec.'84 to May'85 and I am pretty sure I was the first Canadian to do so.I had the time of my life and constantly think about the pub and the people,wondering if any of the regulars still go there and what has happened with my co-workers.Can't wait to get back there for a visit.Does the pub itself have an email address?
|
This is the most contraversial pub on this site. Or is it simply the heated discussion that is so intriguing? Never been but next time I'm in London-I'm there! The 'are they nice/are they horrible debate about Canadians can only be a great advertisement for the pub.Personally I've heard only nice things about them. But what we should bear in mind is that there are good and bad in every nation. Saying all Canadians are bad or even good is a form of prejudice. I know we need to stereotype to make sense of the world, it's what we do, but we should keep our minds open when we can. Forgive the preaching, I'll get off my politically correct soapbox now. It's just that I've been thinking of going to Canada to live, so visiting this pub should be an education...one way or another.
Sue - 12 Jan 2004 17:33 |
Excellent pub, one of the most friendly in London, always looking forward to meeting friends and colleagues there, always get served with a beer and a smile ... pop along
Sean - 30 Dec 2003 20:07 |
This place is horrible. Full of loud ignorant Canadians. The service is crap and drinks overpriced. Also full of birds who give you such a dirty look as if you are going to make a move on them or something. People dont even have the manners to say please if they want to go pass you. This is the place for Canadians who are ignorant and rude go to.
Paul - 25 Dec 2003 20:41 |
good pub, reminded me how much i miss canada. On the negative side I would have appreciated a bigger selection of canadian beers, and there blatantly should be a branch of tim hortons next door. Also the staff weren't canadian I will be going back there to sample some chicken wings soon.
grant - 21 Dec 2003 17:49 |
Please stop posting about unfriendly Canadian staff. The staff at this pub aren't even Canadian!
anonymous - 18 Dec 2003 16:32 |
if you are going to play hockey games then turn up the volume so we can hear the game! chicken wings need some work but the caesars are comparable to home. all in all a good place to go if you're feeling a bit homesick!
anonymous - 12 Nov 2003 15:14 |
Been going here for years. Good beer. Good food. Good fun. Ice Hockey...
And by London standards, the service is pretty damn good too!
Guy - 27 Oct 2003 09:44 |
I was visiting London from Calgary and had heard of the Maple Leaf from a friend,so I checked it out. The service was very good. The problem was that there were no Canucks working, Kiwi's and Aussies I think.The decor was pretty good I thought. Food was good, though the chicken wings were not like we get in Canada.If you want to make the food authentic,you should know how to properly prepare it. All in all though I enjoyed it.
|
This statement is regarding John's comments. After reading all the other comments regarding this place I agree with them. After doing a pub search I fond this place and I am not surprised with the past comments. As a foreigner living in London and having visited your country. I went to this place I while ago and let me tell you why I hate it so much
Too much attidude by Canadian Staff
Unfriendly staff, never smile.
Poor service.
waitress had the chick to ask for my i.d. The only reason your fellow buddies are praising this place is because you are all the same nationality. I felt so down with this place. I will never go to this place again. There a lot of other better pubs to visit where people are nice to you.
Jason - 17 Oct 2003 18:15 |
As a Canadian living in London, I have nothing but good things to say about the Maple Leaf - where else in this city can you get a poutine, a bloody caesar AND watch hockey? Enough said. As for the claims of everyone being rude, those must have been the natives because Canadians are nothing if not polite! I think it's the country motto!
DT - 12 Oct 2003 00:16 |
The Maple Leaf is a paradise island in a sea of tepid beer. What a feeling it was to catch Hockey Night in Canada from several thousand miles away.
Danielle - 25 Sep 2003 19:59 |
As an aussie who was engaged to a Canadian I've known the joy of being a part of two fantastic cultures. The Maple Leaf is an extension of this. Such a fantastic find for London and especially Covent Garden. As for the comments on unfriendly staff I find them hard to believe. Busy maybe, but never nasty, even on Canada Day when they were flat out they were happy enough.
But the best thing about the Maple Leaf... they show the hockey.
All in all, a quality pub.
Shaun Butterley - 19 Sep 2003 10:12 |
I used to work at the Maple Leaf, about ten years ago, and it was a great experience. I am a British born Canadian who had returned to Britain for an extended period, and the Maple Leaf represented a truly harmonious blending of the two cultures. Unless the policy of the pub has changed dramatically, the claims regarding rude staff and unfriendly service are ludicrous. It is interesting to note that the individuals who have written the complaints are apparently both spelling and syntax challenged; their command of the Queen�s English is less than impressive. It is far more likely that these loud, chest beating, near illiterates were the source of any difficulties, and that they were removed from the pub so that the less volatile patrons could enjoy a quiet drink and the company of other friendly patrons. I look forward to visiting the Maple Leaf again should I have the good fortune to visit Britain once again.
John Ironside
Proud citizen of both Canada and Great Britain
John Ironside - 16 Sep 2003 22:33 |
i stumbled across this pub when in london, and was thrilled to see a canadian pub. i was happy to finally get a nice canadian drink. made me feel a little less home sick. recommended to all canadians!
Sarah - 10 Sep 2003 03:09 |
Canada day was superb again even as a Brit.
Service can be slow (especially at shift change time) but has always been friendly. Also for a pub in Covent Garden 'slow' is still pretty darn fast. As for smiling, how many of u have worked in the service industry before? I've never noticed a lack of smiles but I'd understand it if there were.
My opinion only but I like the new decor.
Footie/Hockey During the bulk of the season footie is always on. The Stanley Cup Playoffs if I remember correctly was during The Champions League. *gasp* How could they choose Hockey over that? ;-) How could any self respecting Brit ever go there eh? How many pubs with bigger tvs show the fottie all the time? Too lazy to get off of ones derriere to go hmmm about 3 doors down so complain here instead. Oh well... Life is so unfair for the Brit footie fan. I can never find a pub showing the latest game....
james - 15 Aug 2003 15:24 |
i had been in this place a while ago and i had been out of there within minutes. The service and attitude was very bad. The staff had to be one of the rudist i have ever come across is it because i am not Canadian. Had got into an argument with one of the staff who was of course Canadian. How can you say that this pub is the best and all that. Are the pubs the same as far as attidude and customer service is concerned. i will never ever go to this place again.
Tom [ipswich - 13 Aug 2003 17:52 |
Fascinating fact - one of the few West End boozers to open on Boxing Day. Not a bad place at all, though I can imagine it's probably murder at weekends.
Darryl - 11 Aug 2003 12:26 |
I worked in this pub in '98. great memories there and in London in general. The pub was cheesy with the Canadian theme but I have to admit on Canada Day it was a total blast, a better patriotic party then I've ever had back home. I'll always remember the Leaf.
Craig for Saskatoon - 8 Aug 2003 23:25 |
i was in the pub the other day and the service was excellent. i am not sure what all these people are sayng about the service being horrible becasue i am not canadian and it was very nice. i will be sure to come again.
gemma - 8 Aug 2003 18:01 |
I've read a lot of comments saying that all the staff is Canadian and none of them smile. I'll tell you why. When you are surrounded by people who are rude, complaining and totally void of a sense of humour- you get a little down. Give 'em a Tim Horton's coffee, a weekend at the cottage, some Blue Rodeo...and watch them come to life.
Bob - 8 Aug 2003 10:21 |
Anywhere you can find a bottle of Molson beer, hockey, or a Canadian flag...you know you are in for a good time. For those of you who think the service at this bar was poor, a word of advice. Try tipping.
Jennifer- and yes, I am Canadian. - 8 Aug 2003 10:09 |
Well here goes as an Australian who has visited Canada. I had noticed some serious attitude problems in the pubs in Toronto. And after visiting this pub it just shows an example. I get the feeling that it only cares for Canadians only. The level of service in this place has to be the worst in London. And not all you pubs in Canada are welcoming for visitors to your country either. Had only been 5 minitues in this pub and i was out because of the rudeness and unfriendlyness of the staff. I will never visit you country again nor this pub eihter.
Chelsea supporter
Proud to be Australian - 6 Aug 2003 16:22 |
Had a great evening there the other night, being a Canadian who lives here in London, it was nice after being here for 2 years to finally find a place with a touch of home in it.
All the staff were friendly as could be, looking forward to another evening in the future.
To the aussies who didn't enjoy it, don't worry mate, we canadians feel the same way about cricket that you feel about hockey.
Micah - 5 Aug 2003 22:14 |
Can anyone tell me if there will be an event for acadian day on the 15th of august at the Maple Leaf?
Lucie Savoie - 3 Aug 2003 20:07 |
I have to agree with most recent comments made about levels of service and general state of this pub. Absolutely terrible. Staff are one of the rudist I have ever come across and only seem to cater for canadians and their ice hockey nonsense. We wouldent tolerate this kind of service in Australia. My advice is stay away from this place. Went there once and I had left as I was offended by the Canadian staff. Had complained to the manager but did not give a toss. STAY AWAY FROM THIS PLACE!!! I rather be at the springbok or walkabout down the road.
Jason - 1 Aug 2003 21:53 |
Was there several times in June/July. Love the staff, very friendly Canadians. Canada Rocked me world there. Who needs Canada when you've got the Maple Leaf!!!
kathryn from Detroit - 24 Jul 2003 21:00 |
Please do not judge all Canadian beer on Molsons! It's the most disgusting beer brewed in Canada and it's our equivalent of Fosters. I wouldn't drink the stuff if I was dying of thirst.
Other than the Molsons, I love this place. It's great when you're feeling homesick and want a bit of Canadiana.
As for the the football/hockey debate - yes the pub is in England, but it's a Canadian pub and as far as I know, it's the only Canadian pub in all of the UK - so give us a break and let us watch our hockey! Go to one of the other 10,000 pubs in the city if you want to watch football.
A Real Canadian Drinker - 20 Jul 2003 15:07 |
It is a great hang out for Canadian's in London. Food and drinks are great and very low prices. Note, the Pub is CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS from July 7, 2003 through mid August according to a sign on the Pub.
anonymous - 20 Jul 2003 13:27 |
Well as an astralian living in London my advice is to stay away from this place. Had been there and all you just see are Canadians showing off. Drinks too expensive and staff are one of the rudist I have come across. Rather go to the Walkabout down the road get much better service there. Staff are too slow and very moody. I will never visit this pub again. Has to be one of the worst in London. As a football lover sorry but this is country were soccer is the sport and not just some pathitic I ce hockey.
anonymous - 10 Jul 2003 22:59 |
This pub is currently shut for refurbishment for a couple fo weeks. Let's hope they're putting some skylights in cos it was always dark & dingy but otherwise good pub.
Darren in the City - 10 Jul 2003 08:50 |
This pub is a nice little taste of Canada. Canada day there is almost as good as home. Needs more hockey on tv, less football but other than that, not much wrong.
Dry Young - 3 Jul 2003 18:54 |
Drinks too expensive? In London? Oh, surely not!
The pub tries to provide a bit of home away from home for Canadians, who find that as soon as they step out of their home country, it basically disappears. It's great for that.
Obviously, the service and attitude of servers is not going to be like in Canada, it is in London after all. But it's the best we can get. And at least they serve Poutine.
Christine R - 1 Jul 2003 13:24 |
You people are full of bull shit. Went to this pub and I noticed that it was not so freindly. Drinks too expensive and very slow service. Staff very rude and attidude was more the problem. Did not see any of the staff smile sorry but all were Canadian. Decided to go to the walkabout instead and nice to see so many nice Aussie chicks. As far as the ice hockey and football is concerned this is England land of soccer so if you cant put up with it then buy your self a ticket and go back home. And I am not British
anonymous - 30 Jun 2003 14:38 |
The Maple leaf is a quality establishment. Home away from home for us Canadians working in London. Staff are very friendly, the only thing they need is to stock Alexander Keiths Brew. Canada Day there is just liek being back home.
Dave Gallina..(Halifax NS) - 30 Jun 2003 14:02 |
Regarding this whole ice hockey/footie argument: GET A LIFE!!! It's just a pub which serves it's purpose & is a nice little reminder of home for us Canadians living abrod. Don't like it...tough tittie! See you on Canada Day :o)
Sarah V - 30 Jun 2003 11:32 |
Here goes, I'm a Brit, who has lived in Canada and visited Australia. On my recent visit to the pub I found the staff friendly and the wings super. As for my fellow Brit's who feel hard-done-by and want to watch soccer (footy), you have plenty of choice, find another pub. What's next ban Irish music from Irish Pubs around the world. As for our Aussie friend who hated the place, not all your pubs are a bundle of laughs for visitor's to your country either.
Mapleleaf, keep it Canadian, eh...
airbornesapper - 28 Jun 2003 10:29 |
CANADA DAY KICKS ASS THERE!!! BETTER THAN CELEBRATING IN CANADA
grant lampard - 27 Jun 2003 21:49 |
Interesting comments. I've been to the pub a couple of times and didn't find anything out of sorts with the bar staff. Can't see what the problem is with the hockey/football. There are more than seven thousand pubs in London, surely to God one of them showing hockey isn't the end of the world?
Going to the pub next week. Will re-write review if I find rude staff, bad beer, etc. but I doubt I'll have to.
|
As an Aussie who has travelled to Canada I found this pub to be disgusting and very unfriendly Canadian staff. Service to slow and too much attidude. Just because it is a Canadian pub you are in the land where soccer is the sport. If you cant put up with it then get on the next plane back home. Staff too much attitude just like in Canada.
anonymous - 21 Jun 2003 01:57 |
An awesome pub, nice to go to when you're feeling a little homesick...the staff was friendly enough to us, don't think it was just b/c we were Canadians...and about the whole football/ice hockey controversy, it's a CANADIAN pub, ice hockey is OUR sport...deal with it
sarah - 20 Jun 2003 21:45 |
I am German, but as I have been traveling Canada a lot the past few years, I had to stop by on my last trip to London.
I was delighted to be able to watch the Stanley Cup Finals, the people there -many of them Canadians- were very friendly, as were the nice waitresses ! ;)
The poutine was actually not even that bad, and I can only suggest homesick Canadians traveling Europe to drop by ...
Nevertheless, I found the pub no worse for Britons or other "foreigners" ;), so I don't know what the fuzz is all about ...
|
I've been going to the Maple Leaf for a few years now and i like my visits to the bar when i'm in London.I do like a Molson on draught and i do like Canadian people to very friendly.
I think the Canadian decoration inside is nice gives you a feeling your in a Canadian City and not London.Can't wait for my next Molson.
|
lovely pub, great bar and walls adorned with all the sterotypes of Canada, for which im not annoyed about. contrary to the arrogant attitudes aforementioned if its big enough (leafs in playoffs, man utd in champions leage) they show both sports aside. great molsen, great joint
Carl - 4 Jun 2003 18:38 |
Do you think the Canadians would be upset if they prioritized football over hockey in an "English pub" in Toronto? I think not. Diversity is the charm in a cosmo environment!
Joe - 31 May 2003 11:23 |
Jeez.... You people are so rude. Nice of you to give the rest of us Britons a bad reputation! This pub is GREAT. No i'm not Canadian definitly British with a strong love for Ice Hockey. If you want a pub to show footy go to any of the other hundreds of pubs showing footy! There sure is enough of them! So use your stupid brains - if you want footy go someplace else!!!!
Tahmina Mannan - 28 May 2003 22:37 |
I have to agree with most recent comments made about levels of service and general state of this pub. I think they would do well to attempt to cater for those who like football when football is showing as i'm certain there are much more people in London who prefer football to Ice Hockey and if they were to cater for football-lovers i'm sure they would increase their revenue. I used to be quite a regular to this pub up to a couple of months ago, but I've stopped going for exactly the reasons stated in recent views.
DF - 28 May 2003 17:16 |
Great Pub, great atmosphere and lots of hockey game replays. Why should a Canadian pub in London, cater for your love of football, get a life and go to another pub, there's plenty of em!
AJA - 27 May 2003 18:26 |
Went to this pub one week back and found it great, bar staff are very nice and not slow. Really enjoyed the night. Recommend it to any people.
|
An Englishman in London....I felt like an alien! Talked down to by the barstaff, don't cater for the english love of football and why so much attitude from the staff there?!?!?!
DON'T VISIT THIS PUB, IT IS THE WORST IN LONDON BY A LONG, LONG, WAY!
JL - 23 May 2003 09:22 |
I have to say, this is the worst pub i've ever had the misfortune to go to in my life! It has got progressively worse! I work in the vicinity and enjoy watching football on certain week nights and have been going there for a few months. You can now reserve tables in advance to ensure you can get a good view of the game which to me is important. The 3 times I have booked a table the staff have managed to mess up the reservation each time even when it's written in their reservation diary. The last time they messed the booking up the manager spoke to me in a totally inappropriate manner in front of other customers when she wouldn't let me sit at a table that her staff had supposed to have reserved. The majority of the staff are rude and it seems to me they only cater for Canadians visitng the country, which you can understand, but their pub is in England and people in Engalnd like to watch football, not Ice Hockey! The service at the bar is very slow, the pub is grotty, the beer is expensive and the staff are the rudest people I have had the misfortune to come across. As an English person living in London you are made to feel totally unwelcome. Terrible place!
Al Walms - 22 May 2003 12:23 |
Enjoyed my time in the Maple Leaf. Athough the staff must be getting sick of two questions. Where in Canada are you from and what was the score in last nights hockey games. A slice of home was nice to walk into for albeit a brief change.
rob - 17 May 2003 13:59 |
Very Expensive, Staff very slow get everything this place has and more at Walkabout 3/4 doors down
Arno - 2 May 2003 16:58 |
I am a Canadian traveller and going to the Maple Leaf was a nice taste of home abroad. It was a good laugh to see Canadian culture stereotyped into a bar atmosphere - Classic, worth the pricey beer. Go Leafs Go!
Dor - 8 Apr 2003 02:23 |
Another great night there on Friday, but �3.02 for a pint of Molson? I don't mind the 3 quid, but the tuppence is beyond a joke!! Did anyone else see the big group of lads in scouse wigs and Michael Owen shirts in there on Friday, or was that all part of my alcohol fuelled imagination?!?
PaulyH - 7 Apr 2003 11:21 |
Great place to get a cold Molsons. Wish they had Labatt too though.
Dale - 29 Mar 2003 19:10 |
Great food, great atmosphere!
Leif - 26 Mar 2003 08:15 |
Good pub, was there last summer on a saturday night! Overall good fun..
Anno - 22 Mar 2003 16:31 |
okay, brilliant if your canadian. Molson dry okay Sky always on TVs everywhere, but very expensive. Barstaff tend to be canadian and very moody sometimes service goes out of the window if the mapleleafs are playing (badly usually)
arturo_morales - 18 Mar 2003 15:46 |
Not a bad place, been there a few times and its never been exactly inspiring, but a nice mix of people, lotsa space, decent lagers and friendly atmosphere
sarah - 14 Mar 2003 11:25 |
A great place to get sloshed when you're away from home!
Charlene - 13 Mar 2003 19:16 |
Pricey and unless you like Molsen draught not a great selection of beer. Gets jammed at the weekends.
Gary - 12 Feb 2003 07:00 |
Unless there has been a sudden spate in the last few months, this is the only Canadian pub in London (and therefore probably the UK as well...) and the natives seem to like it!
Pauly H - 13 Jan 2003 16:06 |
Is this pub a typical/traditional Canadian pub? Or there any other special Canadian pubs/bars in London or near London?
Janus - 13 Jan 2003 13:51 |
This bar is great if you're Canadian! The place is OK, but the Molson was disgusting! Sour! Other than that, friendly staff!
Del - 1 Jan 2003 21:43 |
Excellent bar. Good service, good food and Molson on tap. The drinks are quite expensive though, but then the bar is in the Covent Garden area. One my favourite bars in London.
Kevin - 31 Dec 2002 11:23 |
great food and beer, nice friendly atmosphere. Altogether a fantastic pub!
Mark - 29 Dec 2002 19:59 |
Most excellent drinking establishment, with great wait staff. In the ten years drinking there I've always had a fabulous time.
Cath - 11 Dec 2002 09:58 |
This is a piece of Canadiana away from home. All you need is Bruno Gerusi and the Kids from DeGrassi to help make it complete. The food is great and the service is typical of great Canadian charm.
Justin Gallego - 4 Dec 2002 15:03 |
would b good if could get extended license and show LIVE hockey games eg. play off time !!
Manny - 3 Dec 2002 19:44 |
Great place nice to be able to get REAL Molson Canadian without going 3000 miles! Great food and very good prices for London
Paul - 13 Nov 2002 20:37 |
Great Pub,Great atmosphere at the weekend,Great chicken wings(& cheap !!)on Monday nights,Great Staff.Don't waste your time in The Walkabout or O'Disney (aka The Porterhouse)go straight to The Maple Leaf....but be EARLY to get a table...People stay on them all night !!
Charlie - 8 Oct 2002 14:29 |
Fab! The food is fantastic and reasonably priced, the waitress service should be employed more places, the staff are fantastic people and the atmosphere is great. Join the street party on July 1st! This pub would get a 10 if more of the interesting Canadian beers were on draft.
James - 4 Oct 2002 13:05 |
I absolutely love this pub. The food is cracking, and the waitress service for beers is a superb idea.
10/10 for entertainment, food, and atmostphere.
Westie - 26 Aug 2002 14:41 |
Visited a couple of weeks ago on a night out. Liked it so much it's included in my "stag do" pub crawl on saturday evening
bob - 2 Aug 2002 16:40 |
Cracking, lively pub with a good load of large tables at the rear - waitresses furnish you with beer at your table all night if you order food - bliss! Also have the best pub burger in town...
Paul - 9 Jul 2002 15:31 |
Pub is called "The Maple Leaf" and it rocks.
You haven't tried strong beer until you've drunk a Canadian
sam - 6 Jul 2002 11:13 |
I hear ya there digger.What a load of rubbish
Nev - 30 May 2002 11:50 |
Nah, Canadian and strong brew in the same sentance, I think not.
Digger - 29 May 2002 20:25 |
It's a Canadian Pub with Canadian beer. Careful, some of the strong brews may be stronger than you think!
Peter - 29 May 2002 13:58 |
Brilliant food!
Phil |
