Part of the realpubs chain which includes the Mason and the North London Tavern, The Bald Faced Stag has reopened its doors to supply locals with all the traditional values of a good pub in a contemporary setting.

The Venue
The Bald Faced Stag is located almost on top of the East Finchley tube station and it’s quite literally a real pub with character. Having undergone a drastic makeover, the pub used to be, amongst other things, a hotel and a Masonic lodge.

Gone are the days of torn felt pool tables, chunky oversized TVs and blinking fruit machines. In their places stand grand leather-bound booths, decorative chandeliers, sophisticated embossed wallpaper and ornate lampshades. There’s an open-plan kitchen on arrival which complements the rustic oak floors and tables. A lovely al fresco eating area encapsulates the modern feel with tasteful decking and planting, although it can be noisy due to the main road. The only stain on the surface of this revitalized enterprise is its less than appealing location and an even less desirable rear view of a car park.

The Atmosphere
A mainly young crowd flock here and you can be sure of being in the company of young gastro-hungry East Finchley residents.

The Food
Starters include an uncomplicated smoked salmon and egg mayonnaise parcel and a soy and orange duck breast in iceberg lettuce nest, which unfortunately didn’t live up to expectations. There are some traditional mains including battered cod and chips, pork and leek sausages with mash and rich onion gravy and shepherds pie which unfortunately suffered from a heavy-handed use of pepper that spoiled the taste.

Desserts include a creamy selection of Cornish ice cream, Eton mess and chocolate, caramel and pecan tart with coffee bean syrup which is slightly overpowering. Prices here are not astronomical, and each course ranges from about £5.00 - £9.00.

The Drink
There are about a dozen reds and whites to choose from including a French house white, and the wine list features all the usual suspects including Chardonnay, Merlot and Rioja. Another option would be to sample a glass of Pinot Grigio Rose.

The Last Word
The Bald Faced Stag offers a reasonable menu at affordable prices and is a solid competitor to other local gastropubs.

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