Restaurants

Sister restaurant to the rated Anchor & Hope in Waterloo, 32 Great Queen Street shares that gastropubs unpretentious, buzzy air. The pub-style room, done up in classic gastropub burgundy, positively thrums with conversation and bonhomie though the small, tightly spaced tables can make this an irritant. Ranging from snacks and starters to main courses to share, the menu is approachably modern British; its food to tempt and satisfy rather than educate or impress. Brawn was subtle but enjoyable; arbroath smokie deliciously savoury; rabbit saddle appropriately rustic; artichokes enormous. Pies are encased in shortcrust pastry that released a rush of aroma when breached. Bottled octopus (a kind of salad) could have been more interesting, and the gooseberries in an otherwise lovely fool tasted woody, but in general the food was excellent and well-priced. It was let down, however, by service that was disorganised and a little full of itself. And its a real shame there were no British beers available on this occasion, although were told that sometimes a barrel is bought in. Not that its any excuse, but this isnt really a drinking establishment, with only the bar and outside tables currently available to non-eaters.

Time Out Eating & Drinking Guide 2008