On the former site of the Page in Pimlico (RIP), the first gastropub at the ‘wrong’ (Eastern) end of the area; its cuisine is not ambitious, but this is a notably friendly place which has found an instant following in a part of town that’s remarkably under-served.
What the area has most particularly lacked in recent times is a gastopub. Well, no longer. The former Page in Pimlico has now been elegantly (but not extravagantly) revamped, and relaunched as such. This is not a ‘foodie’ pub offering lovingly-crafted English dishes where all the ingredients are painstakingly sourced, but the menu changes weekly, and offers something for most tastes. It’s also realised to a solid standard. On our visit, a well-textured risotto and a satisfying plate of steak ’n’ chips were among the highlights – on the downside, a chocolate fondant tasted bought-in.
Ultimately, though, this is a place where the food is merely good enough, but where everything else really clicks. Drinks, including a decent choice of wines, come reasonably priced, and the setting is charming. It’s the service, though, which really stands out. Our (American) waitress could not have tried harder, and bar service was very amiable too. But the ultimate test is popularity with the smarter local thirtysomethings – on that basis, this place is already a palpable hit.
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