Queens No. 1, Primrose Hill  

Apparently, way back when, this used to be a cosy, traditional local. We never saw it then, because at some point it was deemed better to gut the place and start again. Outside is a studiously cool and minimalist black, which made us wonder what the tiles underneath look like, while inside finds warm but contemporary feel. Leather, wood and candles - the staples of many a modern pub - feature heavily, but it's been done with a degree of individuality, as illustrated by the unusual and ornate fireplace. The lager choice is fine and they pride themselves on their jugs of Pimms and Sangria, but they need to improve the below average ale selection. Food wise, lunchtime offers reasonably priced British pub fare, while evening sees the reigns handed over to a Thai chef. There's a few seats out front, which is perfectly agreeable in this genteel part of London and the front windows open out for the warm weather. All in all, Queens No1 (not to be confused with The Queens two minutes away) might not stun you into amazement, but it's considerably nicer than some of the area's more pretentious gastropubs.

reviewed:
01/06/2008

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