Drapers Arms

Gastropubs

Restaurants

Islington

Mid-range

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Time Out says

Tue Aug 2 2011

Renovated and reopened in 2009 by Nick Gibson and Ben Maschler (son of restaurant critic Fay), this is Islingtonian gastropub culture at its most gorgeous, offering top-notch, seasonal fare in spotless eggshell-blue surroundings.

Those just here for the beer may choose from a long line of taps dispensing ales (Truman’s Runner, Dark Star Hophead, Thornbridge Jaipur) and continental beers (Bitburger, Staropramen); six wines of each colour come by the glass, half-litre or bottle, with 60 others by the bottle in the full list.

The drinks accompany a daily-changing menu, featuring the likes of grilled razor clams, braised short ribs and slow-cooked lamb shoulder.

The pub’s name is reflected in a scissors mural, complementing three fireplaces, shelves of paperbacks and a pile of board games; a verdant beer garden exudes an equal amount of class.

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Address:
Drapers Arms 44 Barnsbury Street
Central London
London
N1 1ER

Phone:
020 7619 0348
Website:
www.thedrapersarms.com
Opening hours:
Open 11am-midnight Mon-Fri; 10am-midnight Sat; 10am-11pm Sun. Food served noon-3pm, 6-10.30pm Mon-Sat; noon-4pm, 6.30-9.30pm Sun
Transport:
Tube: Highbury & Islington tube/rail
Map
1. Drapers Arms
  - 44 Barnsbury Street
    Central London
    London
    N1 1ER
  - 020 7619 0348
  - www.thedrapersarms.com
  - 51.540511,-0.108249

Facilities:
Internet access. Wireless (free). Eating and drinking facilities. On-site dining. Licensed. Restaurant and bar facilities. Reservations required. Function rooms. General facilities. Private rooms. Outdoor facilities. Tables outdoors
Occasions:
Drinks. Speciality beers. Wine buffs. Mood
Type of event:
Parties

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Comments & ratings

(6 ratings)

I live locally, and this is unquestionably my favourite pub in the area - great beers and great food without bankrupting you. I find Geoff's description of it as "rowdy" a bit odd, but not as odd as the idea that the service at the nearby Albion is "less snooty" - the Albion has great food but is so full of itself it's untrue. As the last commenter alluded, it loses a point for the sometime slowness of the food service. Perfect for a lazy afternoon or evening, but not the best choice if you're ina rush...

Ed D Thu Sep 20 2012
Rated as: 4/5
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The idea that this pub has unfailingly friendly staff is tripe. I have seen people stare at each each other in amazement at the apathetic, slow service. Style over substance. Great looking bar, but exceptionally arrogant.

Glen Fri Aug 31 2012
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This is a really fine gastropub where they take a lot of trouble over an original and generally inventive menu. The staff are unfailingly friendly and helpful. The Achilles heel is the delivery of the food. It can take an age, even when the place is practically empty. Still - worth waiting for.

Nicholas Henry Mon Aug 20 2012
Rated as: 4/5
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Terrible rowdy pub. Snooty service. Fancy food which is passé. We left with a hole in our pocket feeling ripped off. Nice area for which it gets a star. Try the Albion for nicer staff and better value.

Geoff Fri Jul 13 2012
Rated as: 1/5
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We go to The Drapers regularly - lunch & dinner never disappoint. Wine, ale & bar snacks are all good and there's a nice little courtyard, although it's quite shady. When the pub is very busy service can be a bit slow. Definitely worth 4 stars not 3 as per Timeout review.

musmusculus Sun Jul 1 2012
Rated as: 4/5
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I love this place - excellent food with a sense of adventure and deep, gutsy flavours. Whole fish on the bone is always excellent, the potted shrimps are a joy.

Stefan Mon Jan 23 2012
Rated as: 5/5
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Food was relatively good but service was poor. Friendly when (if) they appeared at the table, but very very far from attentive. My friend lost his patience so we took the dining party back home for desserts / wine to avoid prolonging lunch for another 90 minutes. Good to try but won't be going back.

totis viribus Mon May 30 2011
Rated as: 2/5
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