Filthy McNastys (just plain Filthy’s to the regulars) is a whisky bar and rock ‘n’ roll pub with heart.

The Venue
Easy strolling distance from Angel tube, Filthy McNastys is located on a typical Islington residential street lined with townhouses. Surrounded by a few shops at a crossroads, Filthy’s is unimposing aside from a few people holding quiet conversations outside whilst they smoke.

Inside, the pub is all stripped wooden furniture with mismatched pieces from old church chairs to high stools and low armchairs. The tables are covered in punters’ scrawl - most of it pretty hard to decipher but that’s half the fun. The walls are a deep red colour, covered in album artwork including work by Blur, Oasis and even a few original Banksy’s, most of which are up for sale. At a glance, this bar has a serious passion for music running through its veins.

The venue is small and fairly dimly lit, but it doesn’t feel cramped or overcrowded. By way of entertainment, they provide a few games to play with your pint including Connect Four and Jenga. If these aren’t your style then there’s also a vintage pinball machine in the corner.

The Atmosphere
The atmosphere is pretty chilled at Filthy McNastys during the week. The bar staff are efficient, although not overly chatty, and seem to be part of the rock scene that surrounds them. The clientele are a mixed bag of regulars who come here to escape the bustle of Upper Street and locals who know they can find a quiet spot to relax. Despite its alternative status, Filthy’s also manages to feel pretty cosy on a dark winter’s night and offers a safe refuge from the busy city.

The Food
Pie fans are in for a treat here – they serve Pieminster’s pies with mash and veggie gravy for £6.50. Pieminster’s pies are something of an institution and definitely worth a punt even if you’re not normally the pie-loving type. They come with a range of fillings including sweet potato and feta or chicken with tarragon. They are delicious and offer a golden flaky pastry that just cries out comfort food as you break open the crust with your fork. Pie not your thing? There is also a Thai menu for those after a red, green, yellow or matsuman curry. These are also priced around £6.50 and the pub does a takeaway service on these.

The Drink
There’s a small wine menu here, with three or four bottles to choose from of each colour. The prices are between £10-£16 for a bottle and for a small glass the house wine is around £3.50. There’s also a good range of draught beers including Red Stripe, Staropramen, Guinness, Strongbow and an ale. However, where Filthy McNastys really goes to town is on the whisky - the extensive list is on a chalkboard and prices are as low as £3.50, which is really reasonable for the area.

The Last Word
You can’t help but grow fond of Filthy McNastys, it’s easygoing and the prices aren’t too hefty on the wallet. It’s a little rough around the edges but that only adds to its charm.

venue information venue map view london review user reviews (3) what's on