The Island Queen, Islington

I recently went to this pub on a Sunday afternoon, in the hope of having a nice lunch with my parents.
i phoned in advance to ask what time they would be serving food until. I was told sunday roasts until 6pm and a main menu after 6. I came along at 4.30pm to see the sign outside advertising the Sunday roast and a big chalk board inside detailing what was available. My father went up to order a pint, and was told they were out. So he requested an alternative, only for the barman to say - 'Yea that is gone too'. So I stepped in and said 'how about you just tell us what you do have' and he replied 'well you have come at the end of the week!'. There was no apologiy, instead a suggestion that it was our fault that the drinks were not available. I then asked whether the Sunday roast could be ordered, only to be told the kitchen was closed. I asked why when I had called especially, and he simply said 'we ran out'. Again, no apology - just an incredibly rude attitude. We immediately left, and needless to say, I was embarrassed that my father should be spoken to so rudely. This appears to be a nice pub, but I have never come across such rude staff. This is not the first time I have experienced very poor service at the Island Queen and I would avoid it at all costs. If they not serving food, they should take the board outside down, and wipe out the chalk board. It does not take long. And a bar that is not stocked properly, is not the fault of the customer!!

13 Aug 2010 16:59