Bars & Pubs

Crescent House is on the site of the former Mother Black Cap pub, built in the 18th century. The blackboard outside advertises Spitfire (though it
was off on our visit), but what staff do best here are cocktails. Our bloody mary was bloody good, with cream of horseradish and port added to the rich tomato mix. And quince sour was an elegant, well-judged blend of lemon juice, vodka and quince jelly with fine strips of apple floating on top; it disappeared very quickly. Non-alcoholic options include a delicious fizz made by mingling house-made gooseberry coulis with fresh mint leaves and organic Cox’s apple juice, then topping with soda. As for the bar menu, chips (wonderful) are cooked in duck fat and served with marinated onglet, a beef cut that’s best hung long and cooked swiftly to guarantee tenderness. The poultry is a great success too. Own-made potted shrimps and duck rillettes are similarly impressive. Most customers head straight to the decked ‘herb garden’ at the rear, but with Tavistock Crescent lying just next to the Hammersmith & City line, conversation is punctuated by trains rattling by. Upstairs is a fancy restaurant overseen by Daniel Ostler, who also designed the winning bar menu.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9