John Baird, Muswell Hill  

Now removed from the grip of the John Barras chain, the John Baird has been relaunched after a comprehensive refit (most notable absence: the pool tables). There's now a Thai menu and comfortable furnishings, alongside five exceptionally well-kept ales and a powerful looking scrumpy. As a pub named after the inventor of television, no surprises to see a large flatscreen rather dominating proceedings at the back of the pub. When we popped by there was, however, a rather restful air to proceedings: the sport on the screen was on mute and soundtracked by a Rat Pack CD (we're sure things will be more animated at the weekly Thursday night quiz though). We've not checked the Thai food yet - the deep fried ice cream suggests some Caledonian-Thai fusion - but unfortunately our recent Sunday Roast wasn't great. However, in a part of town not exactly overstuffed with decent pubs, the new look John Baird is not only a very welcome addition but also offers some (much needed) competition to the Famous Royal Oak as Muswell Hill's best pub.

reviewed:
15/03/2008

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

real ales

Sky sports

beer garden with covered area for smokers

quiz night Thursday

thai restaurant

disabled facilities

jukebox

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