When it comes to the Imperial Arms with its prime position, gorgeous interior and flashy clientele, it’s true to say that beauty really isn’t everything.

The Venue
From its prestigious position amongst the antique dealers of the Kings Road to its elegant light fixtures, chic curtained entrance, and French country house style interior, there is no doubt The Imperial Arms is a beautiful venue. It’s obvious that a lot of effort has been put into making this pub an attractive and pleasant place to visit.

Alongside the dainty rustic French touches like the cream paintwork and farmhouse furniture, some quirky features add a little personality – a row of weathered cinema seats, table football, and a Roman-numeral clock large enough for a train station. The collection of gilded mirrors (presumably for the young beautiful crowd to gaze at themselves in) and the large VIP lettering on the wall are a little ostentatious though. The Imperial Arms is not a large venue, but there is a sizeable outdoor area with a BBQ, which is perfect for summery days and warmer nights.

The Atmosphere
Far from the refined atmosphere you’d expect, the Imperial Arms turns hectic on Saturday night as the local college crowd and Sloanes take hold. On this night it’s all about being seen or getting lucky, with lots of carefully thought out outfits and laborious hairstyles jammed around the bar. The attempt at being retro (a television screen playing an Arnie movie and old-school Michael Jackson on the speakers) clashes awkwardly with the classy surroundings.

Whilst some people might like the Imperial Arms iPod shuffle approach to DJing on Saturday nights, the mixture of The Foundations hit Build me up Buttercup followed by Daft Punk and then modern pop rock is just a bit weird. The atmosphere is buzzing though, so at least you’re guaranteed a fun night if you’re up for it. The Imperial attracts older, more relaxed patrons during the week and the pub’s proximity to Stamford Bridge means that game days also get quite packed.

The Food
The BBQ that gets cranking in the summer and the Sunday Roasts are the best foodie features of the Imperial Arms. The basic menu has standard pies, burgers and salads at around £9.50 for a main. For a cheaper lunchtime option there’s a small choice of sandwiches on offer for £5.50 (including a packet of crisps).

The Drink
Prices are less than you’d expect for this end of Chelsea. A glass of wine, standard spirits and a pint of San Miguel all come in at around £3.50. On tap there’s the more unusual Russian beer Baltika, plus in bitters there is London Pride, IPA and Spitfire. The wine list is quite small with only one choice per country, and bottles from £13-£35 (or £40 for sparkling).

The Last Word
The Imperial Arms is a trendy bar with reasonable prices. It may well be imperial in its fine appearance but the locals it attracts may turn you off.

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