The Crown, Chelsea  

Gastropubs? So last century, dear. This one styles itself as 'London's first boutique pub', and while we await the capital's first bazaar one we thought we'd pay them a visit. Perhaps its title has a certain logic: the dictionary definition of 'boutique' suggests somewhere both small and unique, characteristics this one certainly has. Although efforts are made to make the space as bright and large as possible, there's not too much room in this one, only a small space around the bar and a dining space at the back. Indeed the size, the light decor and the fact that most of the fellow punters on our visit we're eating put us in mind more of a café than a pub or a bar. Gastro food, choice wines - you'd expect that but maybe not intriguing choices on the beer front. A nice surprise then, to see a choice from Devon's Otter Brewery guesting here. Very much in keeping with the local lifestyling outlets in this part of town, it's a space where the positioning of every ornament and mirror seems carefully thought out. As such, even though we didn't exactly feel like a bull in a china shop, neither did we feel we could truly relax here.

reviewed:
24/02/2005

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

real ale - regular guest beers

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