The Elk in the Woods, Islington

S'posed to be a bar/restaurant.

Its not.

Its a restaurant with a waiting room attached.

The bar 'area' is a rediculous space as its simply tiny and you are only 'graced' with seating if people choose not to eat in this space i.e when the restaurant is full.

So, unless youre willing to fork out well over the odds for the average food, u'll be left propping up the awkward looking piece of concrete they call the bar.

on this bar is 3 taps - all without signage ( a pet hate). The choice you have is either san miguel or two spanish speciality lagers. The other choice is spanish lager in bottles.

I drank wine.

The staff are hit and miss so im not going to comment, it gets so confusing as to where you are/are not allowed to sit, I cant blame them for being scatty on occassion.

Shame because its one of my favourite interiors and would have great potential to be either a restaurant or a bar....but not both.

24 Mar 2007 18:58

The Eagle, Clerkenwell

First place I ate in when I moved to clerkenwell 2 years ago and its still a treat every time I go back.

Front of house kitchen makes for a great atmosphere. The menu is id say mostly spanish (seems to change daily) and is all basic fare cooked superbly. Hearty portions and non pretentious. Rustic would be a good all round description of the place.

not sure at all about the comments; 'smug people', 'overated' and 'rude staff'. I think the staff are all completely on the ball and never stand still. A friendly mixed bunch! The croud is always varied and im not sure at all why 'overated'. Its good for a quiet pint (good range of drinks) and if its vibrant spanish hustle n bustle ur after then its perfect.

24 Mar 2007 18:47

The Slaughtered Lamb, Clerkenwell

Go here regularly for gigs in the basement venue (fantastic acoustic acts generally, although have to go upstairs for drinks), and although I've thought the staff can be a little pre-occupied on occassion and leave u standing, Ive generally never had a poor encounter with any of them. Usually always cheery and polite and remember ur previous order.

Beer range is pretty standard really and prices normal for central london.

What Id highlight mostly about the place is the relaxed vibe. Subtle 'victoriana' decor and nice eclectic but comfortable seating. Music is always a really cool collection of 60's and offbeat rarities.

Food always excellent and good value.

Avoid friday after work though. U will hate it!

24 Mar 2007 18:30