A fine gastropub serving delicious meals and a wide range of drinks, quietly tucked away next to Regents Park.

The Venue
Reminiscent of an old-fashioned Victorian pub, this sophisticated venue draws an equally classy crowd and is always satisfyingly busy with happy customers. The property itself is fairly small, which creates a nice cosy atmosphere with classic dark wooden chairs and tables, comfy sofas and several outdoor seating areas with warm heaters. It’s almost rustic in its demeanour and certainly couldn’t be accused of being cold or sterile. The bar itself is a real centrepiece; lovingly looked after, the dark wood gleams with attractive design touches, including a large clock hanging above. The Queens Head and Artichoke has managed to walk that fine line between appealing to diners and local drinkers with aplomb.

The Atmosphere
Always bustling with post-work conversation and heady laughter, one of the best features of The Queens Head and Artichoke is its friendly atmosphere. Arrive early to guarantee a prime spot – as this pub is almost always packed out at peak times. The staff are pretty friendly on the whole, although the service can become a little harried at peak times.

The Food
Situated at the head of the bar is a glass-covered display case containing a range of delicious freshly-prepared pinchos, which are like little open sandwiches with toppings such as feta and salad, smoked salmon and lemon creme fraiche or palma ham and salad. The best thing about these bar snacks is the price; at around £1.50 each, they make a great healthy alternative to chips.

There is an extensive tapas menu available, with dishes such as hummus and flatbread, tiger prawns marinated in chilli and coriander, potatas bravas and chorizio and puy lentils – all worthy sharing plates. Those who are crave a traditional meal will also be spoilt for choice, as the pub boasts a large range of well-executed dishes, such as pan fried sea bream with rosemary mash, spiced aubergine cannelloni with telegio cream sauce and truffle oil and grilled organic and black mountain rib eye steak with potato crisps, watercress and anchovy butter. Make sure you try one of the desserts, too – the fruit plate with Greek honey and bee pollen and banana ameretti and chocolate fool make delicious choices for those who like their food on the sweeter side.

The Drink
As you might expect from a pub, there’s an excellent selection of beer, including some great draught options. Carlberg, Lowenbrau, San Miguel, Grolsch and Guinness make a well rounded choice with an average price of £3 a pint. However, there’s also a great selection of bottled beers, including Hoegaarden Blanc, Leffe Blond, Marstons Pedigree Premium Cask Conditioned Ale, Adnams, Budvar, Sol Mexico, Grolsch, Kaliber, Newcastle brown and Westons organic cider.

If you’re not a beer lover or are looking for a bottle of wine to accompany your meal then there’s a healthy selection of reds, whites, roses and Champagnes. They cover all budgets, with wine ranging from £12.50-£60 a bottle and Champagne rising to £100 for a bottle of Dom Perignon. Interestingly, they even have a cocktail menu here, covering all the classics for just £6.50 a drink.

The Last Word
Not just you average pub, The Queens Head and Artichoke stands out from the crowd with its extensive selection of drinks and delectable menu of Modern European dishes. Whether it’s a post-work wind down or a catch up with friends, be sure to make this pub the next on your list.

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