48-50 Camden High Street,
Camden Town,
London,
NW1 0LT
0872 148 1553
The ViewLondon Review
Belushis was once a place where students and the like would have a cheap, highly amusing night out. These days, however, it’s a wholly different and disappointing story.The VenueNear Mornington Crescent tube lies a venue that used to be good - it catered for its clientele and knew how to please. These days, however, the customers are thin on the ground at Belushis and the sticky floors that used to provide a sense of low key charm when it was full to the brim, just make it cheap and unattractive.
As far as decor goes, you can expect dimmed lights and international flags plastered all over the walls. A creaky old pool table in the back and a darts board provides much needed amusement when liquored up, as does the quiz machine. Just try to avoid the toilets if possible as they stink to high heaven and are in desperate need of a revamp.
The AtmosphereBack when there were no restrictions on who could come into the bar, the vibe was good fun and jovial. Now, it’s practically deserted and the bubble has been burst. The policy is technically no white trainers and no hoodies, but it is inconsistently applied. The bar staff are still as helpful and friendly as ever but they have lost the party vibe and the enthusiasm and, to be honest, who can blame them?
The FoodThe food at Belushis claims to be American and good value. Good value it may be but it’s simply not up to scratch. It lacks flavour and effort and is plonked on a plate with no care or thought. For instance, the bangers and mash meal (£6.50) sounds appealing on the page, but when it is presented to you on a plate it looks unappetising. The gravy is watery and tasteless, the mash is instant and the sausages look anemic. The only recommended option is to go for the Ttortilla chips and salsa (£3.95) as it’s hard to get that wrong.
The Drink
A 175ml glass of wine is £2.95, 250ml is £3.75 and a bottle is £10.50. All bottles - red or white - are the same price, which is a great deal. Also, prosecco is £12.95 if you fancy some sparkles to try and make your Belushi’s experience a little more interesting.
The Last Word
It’s not difficult to run a cheap and cheerful bar in Camden, especially one that seems only to attract students and young tourists. A couple of years ago Belushis was loud and raucous - great fun. Now it has emptied out – along with all the fun. A real shame.Belushis has been reviewed by 7 users