Bars & Pubs

By Guy Dimond

The Drapers Arms, one of the most handsome gastropubs in Islington, has been reborn under new owners Nick Gibson and Ben Maschler (the latter is the son of restaurant critic Fay). This airy, high-ceilinged Georgian building in a quiet, leafy street has been simply renovated with a bare-boards, clean, austere look. The ground-floor bar is J-shaped and backs onto a rear garden, while the first floor dining room has a marginally more decorative look, though is only as flamboyant as a Lutheran church meeting room – and is all the better for it.

Although food’s a key part of the mix, it’s still a proper pub. Cask-conditioned ales include Harvey’s, Black Sheep or Spitfire bitters, all nicely kept on our visit. There’s a decent selection of wines by the glass, and the spirits shelves are well-stocked.

Looking to eat? Check our latest restaurant review of Drapers Arms

Time Out May 2009