London has a lot of pubs - it’s probably the pub capital of the world. And whilst we love a secret speakeasy, a TV chefs’ experimental restaurant, and floating bars or whatever the next “viral” dining location is, sometimes you really can’t beat a classic British pub.
Moving to London from the quintessential British countryside, that cosy country pub feeling was one of the only things I missed. The pubs which aren’t owned by big chains, that have a darts board in the corner (which doesn’t have enough darts to play an actual game), and at least one local in the corner who looks like a permanent exhibition. You get the picture.
So, when we went down to The Mall Tavern we had fairly high expectations, and boy, did it deliver. If you’re looking for a classic pub but without any sticky seats and with a bit more personality, then you have to head down to The Mall Tavern.
Where is it?
Nestled in the picturesque Notting Hill, you’ll find The Mall Tavern at 71 Palace Gardens Terrace, London W8 4DY.
What’s special?
The Mall Tavern is a family-run Victorian gastropub which delivers all the English nostalgia Americans travel to the city for, without any of the crowds that flood central London. Everything on their menu has a suggested beer pair alongside it, showing that alcohol dinner pairings don’t just have to be wine.
Plus, our personal favourite part was their (free!) ‘Basement Blues’ session. Every Thursday, The Mall Tavern hosts a different blues and jazz band under the main restaurant. It feels like you’ve stumbled on a real in-the-know only spot, filled with locals and has a very relaxed atmosphere for such a cool evening.
What’s new?
Well, The Mall Tavern itself is a Victorian pub so it’s not new itself. However, their focus on seasonality means you’ll get to try new dishes regularly. Also, they have a fantastic selection of beers, ales, and IPAs - with 20 taps of consistently good beers from the UK and beyond as well as three well kept cask ales, you’ll be able to try out a load of different pints.
Who should you bring?
It might be controversial but we think this is a great date spot - especially a first or second date spot, when you don't want too much pressure or anything too fancy. It’s got the relaxed vibe of a pub whilst being a bit more special & elevated than just your regular 'spoons. Also it’s a great spot for going to with a group of mates (or even a double date), as you can try out some new draughts, get involved with a quiz or watch some basement blues, all whilst feeling like you could be on the set of a Richard Curtis romcom that was the reason half of Gen Z moved to London in the first place.
What should you wear?
As it’s a casual vibe, you’ll be absolutely fine in your chilled weekend garms - jeans and teeshirt or even a good old hoodie. However, as it’s Notting Hill, there are always going to be some people dressed a little but fancy, so really whatever you’re in or feel good in will be fine.
What are prices like?
It’s classic London pub prices for the most part, but The Mall Tavern also has good offers that you should keep an eye out for. The mains are between £17-24 but are proper good quality so you feel like it's worth it. They run deals like two courses for £20 Monday - Thursday. Plus, if you’re a local, you can join their Locals Club which will make you eligible for exclusive offers like 50% off your bill every Thursday. Score.
The must-tries
We tried a couple of their daily specials which were absolutely banging. We're not usually an asparagus kind of people but their Prosciutto, Butter & Asparagus starter special was sublime. It was salty and (unsurprisingly) buttery - so silky and utterly delicious. Also, we would not miss out on their prawns - they came as they should, with proper crusty bread and a sauce that you would happily disown your family for.
The ultimate must-try though is their Sticky Toffee Pudding. Any Brit who grew up with a roast on a Sunday and a local pub within walking distance with some kind of animal or royal body part in its name will be no stranger to a Sticky Toffee Pudding. In fact, it’s probably one thing that most Brits will consider themselves an expert in. But oh my days The Mall Tavern takes it to a new level - the sauce alone (something they clearly have a pattern of doing well) was so good, we broke all etiquette rules and spooned the sauce jar clean.
What to skip
The only thing we’d recommend skipping is their cocktails - whilst they are definitely well made and worth your payday splurge, it’s their beers and ales you don’t want to miss out on. There are literally too many beers to try even between four of you in one sitting, so we’d recommend skipping the cocktails and going straight for a pint you’ve never heard of.
The verdict
Whether you’re into chasing down the hottest viral spots, or whether viral spots are your idea of hell, the thing you will agree on is The Mall Tavern. It’s classic, beautiful, and is the kind of spot that everyone dreams of having on their doorstep. We’re just jealous that we live too far away for it to be our local.
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