The Steam Passage, Islington

Looks inviting from the outside but that appearance does not extend to the inside. Very ordinary London pub. It improves towards the rear which is the only escape from the conversation-killing pounding 'music'. (does anyone actually ever ask for it to be switched on rather than off?) Furniture looks tired and ready for replacement. It is not old in the rustic sense but in the 'chipped veneer, been there since 1973' sense. So it came as a surprise that the beer was certainly OK and my fish and chips was excellent. And at least the TV screens were silent.

11 May 2009 23:13