Randomness Guide to London Menu

Rather nice traditional locals' pub on the Isle of Dogs.

Separate saloon bar and public bar; something of a rarity these days. The saloon bar is small and cosy (didn't go in the public bar so don't know what it's like). They have a few tables and chairs out on the pavement that are well-patronised by smokers in good weather. There's also a sunny conservatory off the saloon bar, with dragon trees and white-painted patio-style decorative metal chairs and tables.

Kake visited on a Friday afternoon and sat in the saloon bar; there were several locals already in there, having nice civilised conversations over a pint. One of them even had a little chat with me while his friend was in the gents'. Service was friendly too. I had a half of Ruddles Best, which cost £1.34 (I think) and came in a rather nice little stemmed glass. Horseracing was being shown on a flatscreen at one end, but the sound was off. Music was unobtrusive and not uninteresting: K T Tunstall, Oasis, etc.

Food is served at lunchtimes; a main course costs between £5.25 (tagliatelli with roasted Mediterranean vegetables in a creamy tomato sauce) and £9 (Thai prawns with saffron rice and salad). They also do filled jacket potatoes (£4.25-£5) and hot sandwiches. When I phoned up in July 2007 they told me weekday lunchtimes only, 11am-3pm, but I was there around 4pm on a Friday and the menus were still out on the tables, so there may be some flexibility.

Accessibility: the whole pub is on one level, but I forgot to check whether there are steps up to get in.

See also:

• Full Pint review