The Kings Arms, Soho

Recently we were invited to meet some friends in London and go for a drink at the King's Arms. I had heard of this pub before the visit but then found these reviews on-line. They are not the most flattering of reviews and I have to say I was not looking forward to going, based on the several negative comments. However, I was so pleasantly surprised that I felt compelled to register with BITE to leave a review a little more positive than some of the other visitors had left. Of course, we were only there on one occasion and it was reasonably quiet, but most of the downstairs area was filled with quietly chatting drinkers of mixed ages. The place certainly had a lived-in feel but was not, to my mind, as dilapidated as I had been led to believe. We ventured to the upstairs seating area as there weren't many places to sit downstairs. Yes, the carpet was worn on the riser of the topmost stair as these were very narrow stairs and it is almost impossible not to let the toe of your boot clout the riser as you climb. This was the only sign I found of the carpet being worn. From the previous reviews I expected to see it held together with gaffer tape in several places. The downstairs was air conditioned but upstairs was not (or wasn't switched on). They serve limited real ales, but these were perfect temperature and reasonably-priced (for the area - we paid higher at another nearby pub). The bar staff were polite and left an impression that we were actually welcome there - almost like you were invited to share a beer in their living room - one of them politely acknowledged us as he passed to a room at the back too. I honestly can't fault the pub - it's not glamorous, it was not pristine, but to my mind, somewhere which felt almost familiar, and above all, welcoming is far more important. The only minor criticism I have was a few more stools in the bar area would have been better. As for the toilets they were clean albeit incredibly close together (a little dated but perfectly usable). There was hot water, soap and hand dryer. I really don't know what people expect. They were fine and I really can't complain about them. The King's Arms is certainly worth a visit in my view and I would happily return there on another occasion.

4 Oct 2011 19:19