Nestled in a predominantly residential area, easily reached from Shoreditch, Dalston and Islington, the Rosemary Branch is an independently run theatre pub that hosts an eclectic selection of events; from movies and theatre to the occasional oyster festival.

The Venue
With its proximity to the Regents Canal and Shoreditch Park, coupled with leafy streets and rows of pretty white terraces, The Rosemary Branch is framed by a truly quixotic setting. The stylish black, white and gold exterior make this Victorian building stand out and on approach it is pleasantly imposing without dominating the background.

The inside is scattered with quirky objects such as an antique bust over the bar, a tree covered in fairylights and an ear sculpted into the wall. The presence of a curious, over-the-top dressing table and heavy, black velvet curtains hanging by the windows reflect the fact that this is a theatre as well as pub.

The Atmosphere
Day or night, this place is always amenable, welcoming and relaxed. In many ways, The Rosemary Branch is a blank canvas; it unwittingly caters for all ages and tastes with its classic, timeless decor and various events such as quiz nights, film screenings and, of course, by doubling as a theatre. In that vein, no particular type of person inhabits this space over another. What’s also great about it is it unwittingly manages to be both a perfect summer and winter venue. In good weather, sunshine pours across the outside seating area all day long and the colourful window boxes and plants make it more reminiscent of a country pub than an inner city retreat. In winter, the real coal fire and nod to the traditional epitomise cosiness and comfort.

The Food
The Rosemary Branch is popular for food in the evenings - particularly with families on a Sunday afternoon. The menu offers standard pub fare such as nachos, burgers, fish and chips and steak with mains averaging £8.50. There is also an a la carte menu, which looks fantastic but is not always on offer. This contains such dishes as Bloody Mary mussels (£5.50), rib eye steak (£11.75), roast chicken (£9.50), crispy pork belly (£9.75) and rainbow trout (£10.75).

The Drink
Most of the beers on tap are Czech or Belgian and there are a few Fullers ales available on draught. The wine list isn’t exceptional but it’s all decent enough. The prices on the other hand are exceptional with everything coming in considerably under the average for the area.

The Last Word
It’s hard to find fault with The Rosemary Branch. Appealing decor, friendly staff and great value drinks make it an idyllic venue whatever the occasion.

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