The Wells, Hampstead  

The charming Georgian building at 30 Wells Street might retain the old 'Tavern' name on the outside, but this upmarket gastropub is a far cry from the olde worlde impression conjured up by such a word. Since local residents battled hard to prevent it being turned into luxury flats, we should perhaps be grateful for small mercies. Even so, drinking here is vaguely uncomfortable - despite calling themselves a "pub and restaurant", its clear where their allegiances lie; a good portion of the ground floor is dedicated to eating, whilst three restaurants grace the upper floors. Still, amongst the cocktails and menus you can get a pint - Black Sheep to be precise, along with a couple of lagers - so it's worthy of a review. The interior is certainly chic, with those clean lines beloved by hyperbolic critics, but isn't sympathetic enough to give justice to the building. However, it's clearly something people want and consequently very popular here - especially on Sundays. If you time your visit well, though, you can find an outside table, or grab a couch to enjoy a game of chess. If this isn't your idea of a classic Hampstead pub however, don't worry; there are some excellent alternatives nearby.

reviewed:
21/03/2008

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

real ale

function room

outdoor seating

separate dining area

board games

dogs welcome

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