Having lived quite literally a stone’s throw away from The Prince Arthur for the past 6 months I am ashamed to say that I was completely unaware of the existence of this lovely little pub. But after getting wind of it, I had to go.
The Venue
Found on the corner of a residential street, halfway between London Fields and Dalston, it is completely forgivable to have overseen The Prince Arthur (or so I keep telling myself). It is very much a neighbourhood pub, perfect for those living in the trendy surrounds of London Fields. Although there are benches situated outside for those that wish to perch on the pavement, The Prince Arthur has the cosy feel of a winter pub. The stained glassed windows, wall mounted stuffed animal heads and mix ‘n’ match furniture give it a more traditional feel than those you might find on nearby Broadway Market or Kingsland Road.
From the outside The Prince Arthur looks like your everyday London pub.
The Atmosphere and Clientele
It is no surprise that you’ll find your typically young and trendy Dalstonites at The Prince Arthur; but they will likely be interspersed with some of the rather affluent locals, who discovered the area quite some time it got its cool tag. This mixture makes for a pleasantly laid back atmosphere, a nice change from the louder and more upbeat pubs nearby.
This makes the Prince Arthur the perfect spot for a quieter drink and a spot of food, a midweek catch-up or a chilled Sunday roast. The lovely and attentive staff also add to the enduringly pleasant atmosphere.
Taxidermy, comfy seating and a long bar all make for a wonderful drinking experience.
The Food and Drinks
I know that the "gastro pub" is ubiquitous in London now, it seems a pre-requisite for any pub to serve some sort of spruced-up grub, but this is not to say that they all excel at it. The Prince Arthur certainly does, and I must say it served up the best food that I've had from any pub in the area. Dishes might not be particularly cheap (although you can get 50% off food from Tuesday to Thursday) but they are extremely well made with high quality ingredients and are presented impeccably.
Our choices of the confit Gressingham duck leg, alongside the slow cooked shoulder of Herdwick mutton were right on the money. Rich, flavoursome and pleasantly filling, they were the types of main courses that you just don’t want to end. As for the rest of the menu, there is something for everyone, from the more typical pub grub of burgers and fish & chips to wood pigeon and venison terrine. The deserts are rather tasty too!
Drinks-wise there is an extensive wine selection to suit all budgets, with a couple of mid-priced reds being particularly tasty. A selection of both name brand and craft beers is also inevitably available at the bar – an East London staple.
With amazing food and drinks, The Prince Arthur is a proper London gastro pub.
Summary
An instant favourite after my first visit. Charming, friendly and with a lovely selection of food. The Prince Arthur is a London gastro pub as it should be in my eyes.
