A borderline tacky sports bar in Bayswater, the Phoenix is fine for a low-key night on the tiles, but that’s about it.

The Venue
The exterior of the Phoenix is similar to any one of hundreds of pubs across the capital. The corner-positioned building offers large period windows and a black and gold colourscheme. Outside, a couple of blackboards try to entice people inside and there are a couple of tables and chairs for alfresco drinking. Inside, it’s an altogether tackier affair. The burnt orange walls clash horribly with the cream curtains - it seems a bizarre decorative touch. The tables and chairs are worn and tired and the TVs only serve to make the whole thing even less appealing. It’s certainly not the kind of place that instantly puts you at ease.

The Atmosphere
The Phoenix attracts a mix of tourists and local commuters, and does better business when there’s a big game on or an event like, heaven help us, karaoke. The atmosphere is certainly upbeat at times but – and perhaps this is mainly down to the awful decor – it is all a bit ‘blah’. It never really seems to get off the ground, which would be fine if it were a relaxing spot. Unfortunately it’s not even that. If the Phoenix could work out exactly what it waanted to be then it could certainly successfully be resurrected as it’s far from being a lost cause.

The Drink
Guinness, Fosters, Bulmers, Budweiser - there’s nothing of much interest as far as the drinks go. As with everything else about this place, it’s all fine and you won’t be stuck for something to order but it won’t inspire you to come back and there are so many other pubs in the area offering a greater selection – including some interesting ales – that it’s hard to see why they haven’t been a little more inventive with their selection.

The Last Word
The Phoenix is a decent enough spot if you’re desperate to catch a game on TV but otherwise there’s little to set it apart from the competition.

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