Jolly Butchers

Hey T.O., who said that N16 people were happy with "weary boozers, formulaic gastropubs and corny bars" - did you ask any of us? What a silly comment. The JBs is packed out every night and its carefully chosen array of craft beers brings people from far and wide - it's the equal of the Southampton Arms. The staff are friendly, knowledgeable and helpful (there's nothing "beerier than thou" about the place) and it's a great pub to start exploring the world of beer. Its only drawbacks are that it gets overcrowded, there are a few too many hipsters, and the open-plan space tends to full up with frying smells from the open kitchen. Otherwise it's the best alehouse in Stoke Newington and deserving of a far higher score than TO's parsimonious 3/5.

I think this review underrates this pub. The decor is good and certainly not "shabby chic" and the beer and food excellent.

Great variety of beer on offer, as long as you do not want regular mainstream beer that is. Its great to have a regular and different variety of beer on offer. Beer is sourced from local brewers, or niche brewers. an excellent choice . Staff know their beer and can guide you in your choice. Food is good, with large portions. Not a wide choice but sufficient variety. The sausage platter is great and the pork spare ribs portion is a huge finger licking good size. Staff friendly. No TV to spoil the atmosphere...a great place to meet mates for a good beer and chat. On Wednesday evening there is a knitting club that meets and knits...great fun. Excellent Sunday roasts that are popular....get in early for a place.