Unpretentious? Definitely. Boring? Unfortunately so. The Hoop and Toy provides good prices for the area, but for a more interesting evening you’re better off going elsewhere.

The Venue
The upholstering and furniture cannot fool anyone. Hoop and Toy is desperately trying to look old and charming in an attempt to stand out from the crowd in ritzy South Kensington. The low-ceilinged rectangular room has been decorated in an attempt to resemble a traditional pub, but the general effect is somewhat counterfeit.

Fake or not, this pub offers traditional touches such as games machines, wall benches and bar stools. There's also a large standing area to accomodate punters on the busiest nights. A second room upstairs is usually closed, but is available for private functions. A nice touch, however, are the outdoor heaters designed to keep smokers happy.

The Atmosphere
Despite only admitting over-21s, the Hoop and Toy is often busy with Imperial College students and young French locals. However, this is not primarily a student pub and you can expect to find pretty much anybody here. The exception are the rich and glamorous inhabitants of South Kensington who steer away from the pub in favour of more exclusive venues like nearby Boujis. Consequently, thanks to the friendly staff, the atmosphere is pleasantly laid back. Unfortunately, this isn't quite enough to sustain a pub with little soul.

The Food
The menu is populated with pub grub with the occasional foreign dish thrown in for variety. The good news is prices are low, even when less obvious ingredients are employed.

Steaks are definitely the focus of Hoop and Toy, appearing everywhere from the starters to the sandwiches and burgers. Traditional pub offerings like fish and chips, scampi, shepherds pie and sausages are there, too, mixed with nachos and an eastern platter of Indian finger food. Vegetarians, whilst not given too many options, can still choose a tasty breaded falafel burger.

The Drink
Nothing is too out of the ordinary here: there is no rare beer or wine, but the selection isn’t too limited and the prices are far from prohibitive.

Beer starts from £2.90 a pint or £3 a bottle covering all the usual suspects plus Cobra, Staropramen and a good selection of traditional ales. On the wine list there are twenty reds and whites, with a couple of German labels worthy of attention. The menu is well described by degree of dryness and fruitiness, making your choice easier. Prices are good news for your wallet: glasses cost £3.20-£6.55 and bottles are priced between £12-£22. A few rose and sparkling wines are also available and for a bottle of Tosti Sparkling Pinot Grigio you will have to spend only £14.50.

The Last Word
The Hoop and Toy has no obvious negative qualities; it just isn’t pretty and is lacking in atmosphere, with only reasonable prices bringing in the punters.

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