The Island Queen, Islington

Having lived in Islington for 5 years and now living in Stoke Newington I cant help but feel disappointed with myself for not venturing around the corner to one of the most stunning pubs I have been to in London in the 10 years I have been living here. Coming from Nottingham, a place well known for its historic pubs I'm used to fantastic pubs filled with history , charm and atmosphere. That was until recently when I finally went to visit The Island Queen, Noel Rd Islington. You cant help but be impressed by the magnificent Victorian windows that go as high as the enormous ceilings. The horseshoe bar seems dwarfed by the grand mirrored walls which you cant help but sit and stare at. It was a Sunday and indeed a sunny day and at first we were reluctant to sit inside a bar even though we were really relishing a Sunday lunch to nurse our hangover from the previous night. But once we entered the pub we were smitten. Serving a varied selection of Sunday Roasts, Bar snacks, a great selection of wine and not to mention the fantastic beers on offer (im hoping to try the raspberry leemans on our next visit) The bar staff were friendly and all smiles and who wouldn�t be working in such a beautifully decadent environment. Instead of s Sunday roast I opted for the fish fingers on ciabatta with lime mayo and a round glass of rioja and sat back reading the Sunday papers. The furniture all very inviting and comfortable with the added bonus of the music being subtle and understated. I could have spent the whole afternoon there if the sun wasn�t calling me. If ever you are in Islington please divert yourself from the trappings of upper street and head south to the tiny back streets. Noel rd is where you 'll find this Victorian treasure, im seriously considering moving back to Islington so that I can be closer to this bar. If not within it! Enjoy

18 Apr 2005 14:37