The Kings Arms, Liverpool Street

This is a great old-fashined, non-pretentious pub, a stone's throw from Liverpool St station. As you'd expect from a proper pub, there's a good range of beer, and the bar service is generally excellent - you'll be served quickly and in turn!
Definitely a place for football watching - there are loads of big screens, and even a recent 3-D addition for when the occasion warrants.
The beer garden out back is great in the summer - nice and large, with plenty of places to rest you beer.
Downstairs is much quieter with a couple of pool tables, and a more relaxed lounge area. Unfortunately, so are the toilets, which are in need of a proper overhaul, and the only blot on this place.

21 Mar 2011 09:48

The Alwyne Castle, Islington

The service in this bar is beyond bad!
I've been drinking regularly here for several years because it's handy and comfortable - great in the summer because of the large outdoor area.
However, I find it difficult to believe that any of the staff have prior bar experience. They have no idea of the order of service, can only concentrate on pouring one drink at a time (slowly), and will leave the bar when it's at its busiest to collect glasses or delever food.
My advice - hire a glass collector and a waitress, then get hold of some decent bar staff who know the definition of multi-tasking.

2 Aug 2007 14:17