Snooty Fox, Highbury  

Loungey pubs are so common these days that they have to try really hard to stand out. DJ nights? Been there. Open mic sessions? Old hat. Quiz? yawn. All these are in place at the Snooty Fox yet there's still a freshness and originality to the place. Perhaps it stems from the pub's old fashioned vinyl jukebox: there're not many of them left in London, probably as relying on A and B sides of singles can result in a rather odd selection of tracks (if you have a burning desire to hear the Instrumental Dub Mix B-side of Bowie's 'Absolute Beginners' be sure to stop by). Despite - or possibly, because - of such a soundtrack, when we first visited here the staff were playing their own tunes. Given the quality of their selections perhaps the jukebox should be switched off more often: from classical to jazz to 'Wichita Lineman' the choices were faultless for a lazy Saturday afternoon, as were the well kept beers. Even though pine nuts feature on the menu we're not in the realms of gastro pretence, rather well-done pub grub. There're also some stylish touches on the décor front - the wooden cabinet for the spirit bottles was a particular favourite, and it's hard to be critical of a bar where posters of Debbie Harry and Marianne Faithfull adorn the walls. The early part for the week can find it too quiet here, so for the moment we're recommending the Snooty Fox as ideal for a lazy weekend afternoon.

reviewed:
02/04/2006

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