The Lyceum, Strand

Having been regularly drinking in Samuel Smith pubs for the last 20 year I stumbled across the Lyceum Tavern quite by accident. Tucked away on the very busy strand in central the outside impression of the pub is a very positive one. With large windows and hanging latern style lights it immediately gives of the impression of a welcoming pub. I can honestly say upon entering the cosy pub the good impressions continued. I was met by two young men behind the bar who made me feel as if I had been drinking here for years. I ordered a pint of my favourite drink ''Samuel smiths old brewery bitter'. Which I was very glad to see was on hand pull. While one of the young men pour my pint, the other chipped in with the general chit chat you have come to miss from London pubs asking how my day had been etc. He then charged me £2.90 for my pint. Something I was very happy about Sam smith pubs have always been know for being cheap but this pint in central London is very pleasing. The first young man who poured my pint then asked if I was happy with my measurement of head to beer ratio. Something that seems to go a miss these days. I was happy as in my opinion the pint was perfectly poured. I then retreated into one of the snug little Booths to enjoy my pint. I watched the boys and was very surprised to see there service to me was not a one off. Every customer I saw enter the pub got treated exactly the same and they even made extra effort with those who were not familiar with the products. I stayed for around 30 minutes and was impressed with the clean surroundings made very enjoyable by the laughing coming from around the dart board area. I left and was greeted with a heartfelt 'goodbye and take care' from both young men. In summery excellent service, great prices, very clean and a great example of what pubs should be. I will defiantly return when in London.

2 Aug 2013 00:23