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Built in 1875 on the site of a medieval Dominican friary, the Blackfriar had its interior completely remodelled in the Arts and Crafts style. Now a Nicholson’s, its bright panes, intricate friezes and carved slogans (‘Industry is Ale’, ‘Haste is Slow’) still make a work of art out of the main saloon, adjoined by a prosaic one linked by a marble-topped bar.
Outside, a large terrace faces traffic approaching Blackfriars Bridge, and a tick-box blackboard by the doorway gives notice of the considerable choice of guest ales – Sharp’s Doom Bar, Kelham Best, St Austell, Bateman Victory – that complements the tap Erdinger and Peroni. Wines are reasonably priced and interesting, while food runs from bar bites to Sunday roasts of beef topside.