Sat in the middle of Stoke Newington Church Street, Daniel Defoe is an authentic example of a traditional British pub that effuses old-fashioned comfort and serves incongrously great food.

The Venue
There is nothing conspicuous about this pub. On the contrary, it fades into the background against its more polished neighbouring counterparts. Unlike the majority of places on Church Street, Daniel Defoe is not an immediate attention-grabber and resembles the kind of quintessentially British pub that is so often absent from the capital.

From the aging wallpaper to the discoloured paint and tired carpet, everything is a different shade of brown. This no frills, gloomy interior is reassuringly honest and asserts the fact that Daniel Defoe isn't trying to be anything other than a decent pub. One of the great things about this place is the outside space located to the rear of the building. Unlike the dreary, drab interior, the large decked area is a breath of fresh air and the oversized umbrellas make it tolerable even when the weather is less than favourable.

The Atmosphere
On any day of the week Daniel Defoe is busy with diners and drinkers. Young professionals, boho types and locals coexist happily and non-intrusively. Although it's far from void of atmosphere, it's contained and fit for a Sunday afternoon of quiet drinks with friends after a raucous night out.

The Food
The dining element of the pub operates under the name Alistair at the Daniel Defoe. Alistair is a highly acclaimed chef who has worked at various Michelin star restaurants in London and the North, apparent in the quality of the food.

The tantalising menu has all bases covered with its traditional and hearty, yet contemporary dishes. For instance, the chicken and leek pie is served in a dated beige hotpot sat next to ample servings of market green vegetables on pristine white plates. Both portions and prices are more than reasonable. This pub is especially renowned for its Sunday Roasts. Again, striking a perfect balance between customary and contemporary, it’d be almost impossible to find anything of this standard for this price in London. Unlike most places that are lazy with their vegetarian roasts, you get a homemade nutroast as opposed to just stuffing.

The Drink
Drinks here are pretty standard with draught beers including Red Stripe, Fosters, Erdinger and Kirin. There's also a decent choice of real ale including Bombardier, Proper Job, St Austell Tribute and Youngs Bitter. Interestingly, there's an impressive whisky list, the length and quality of which isn’t expected in an establishment of this ilk.

The Last Word
All in all the Daniel Defoe is an anomaly. It’s a real pub through and through, but not the sort you come across regularly in London. What’s more, it serves food that surpasses expectation for the sort of establishment it is and typifies what a gastropub should be without even being aware of it.

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