Rob Roy, Paddington

When, at the wedding at Cana of Galilee, the historical Jesus performed his generally-agreed first miracle, turning water into wine*, it was as if the good Lord himself writ the imprimatur and nihil obstat upon the encyclical regarding pleasant drinking and conversation. With such celestial approval, it is no surprise that, upon the corner of the equally celestial Star Street and Sale Place, I have found a pub of heavenly conversation and well-served liquor: the Rob Roy. Just as great respect was shown to the wedding-guests two thousand years ago by leaving the best wine until last, one may travel as a stranger around many anonymous pubs, where the staff might as well wear grey identical masks, before finding, at last, the character of the client�le and honesty of conversation which reward one's staying until the end, whether it be bitter or mild. In the same way as the translator of the Nuptial Elements was given both to gentleness and robust conversation, the same may be found in the Rob Roy (especially when a Scottish or Northern side are succeeding less effusively than a London side in the same match): but my every departure has been with memories of good nature, and excellent service, and the hope to return. The coffee, by the way, can be of legendary strength, suitable for all cold mornings and nights.

Play your part, and the Rob Roy brings ample reward.

28 Nov 2010 21:11