The Duke of Cambridge, Islington

This is by far my favourite pub in London and one that I have regularly visited over five years. I have to say some of these negative comments must be blown completely out of proportion for affect by bitter individuals.
However no pub is perfect. The menu evolves with the seasons which is great when it has a diverse selection of produce but every once in a while beetroot appears in every dish. That aside the food is always generously portioned and vegetarian friends are always impressed. Don't expect steak to be on the menu (it very really is) but do expect venison, pigs cheeks and wild boar. Price wise (considering the area and the produce quality and quantity) I would say it is usually well priced.
It's a great place for a celebration as the bar area has many large tables and the staff will always help you push some together. They now allow you to bring in your own birthday cake (why they didn't in the past is beyond me).
The only thing that ever stopped me going to the Duke more often was the same tiered old staff that were more interested in suduko and word searches than serving customers or chatting to regulars. Thankfully this has dramatically changed of late, the new staff have really added something positive to an already fabulous pub.
It really is no wonder this place wins so many awards and is always so busy.
Keep up the good work!!

20 Mar 2010 18:08