The Big Chill House

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 29 reviews

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257-259 Pentonville Road,
Kings Cross,
London,
N1 9NL

0871 971 4515
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Reviewer chunkyc
02/04/2012
I was there at the last Saturday party. Ive been there because bartender said at every last weekend BCH has a special bigger venues.Firstly, when I and my friends arrived we were pulled into dance by amazing sound system and unstoppable party until 4am. Sounds fine to me especially when you dont have to pay for entry (according to the flayer its a free entry for all venues).Prices. For me they are similar in every places where I used to be, around 4 pounds for a pint, same with mixed drinks. AMAZING COCKTAILS! Deals for them are good too. Mixed ages and varied crowd. I still feel good, maybe becauce everyone there was for having a good time and that is are to find these days.
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Reviewer Tim S
09/02/2011
This place has really gone down the pan in the last couple of years. It used to be a nice place to hang out and had a certain buzz. However, I went there recently and it was awful. The crowd was dull, old, nerdy corporate types eating food. This used to be a kool bar, what happened? And WHAT is with the red and white table cloths? Looks like Dairy Queen! Please bring the young trendies back here. It's Kings Cross not the square mile.
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Reviewer maureenheath
05/01/2011
Superb NYE at the Big Chill House! Place was rammed. Bar staff were fantastic, super fast and friendly. Excellent cocktails and top (massive!) burgers...love the onion rings..

One of the bar staff (tall and handsome?? call me!) was saying they are apparently relaunching or something in March...not sure what that is about but I'm sure it'll be good whatever it is.

...Big thanks to all at Reggae Roast for the sounds. The girls and me will definitely be back, probably for the next Big Chill Presents or more likely on Friday for one of those Kahuna Burgers! xxxx
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Reviewer BarneyB
04/01/2011
I went to the Big Chill House for the first time in December, and was pleasantly surprised at what I found.

It was much bigger than I expected for a start, friendly bar staff, great drinks and I also had one of the tastiest burgers I'd ever had, which I wasn't expecting.

The music was awesome as well too, really wicked mix of Hip Hop, Reggae & Funk from the DJs when I was there.

I loved the upstairs terrace as well - felt weird being so warm & cosy whilst still being outside.

Wicked vibe throughout - me & my mates had a fantastic time and will definitely be going back! Highly recommended!
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Reviewer Janesue
04/01/2011
I am not a Mc Donald's fan at all but the burgers at The Big Chill House are delicious! From the outside it does not look like a restaurant but The Big Chill House has loads to offer. Great spot for a relaxing lunch and a beer. They also have a list of yummy desserts but I was so full I could not order any. Wondering how they are. Next time for sure. And this is gonna be soon!
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Reviewer desion
15/07/2010
The biggest let downs during the times I've been to The Big Chill House are the bouncers that patrol and linger around inside The Big Chill House. It's their attitude that makes an impact. I've seen many instances where they've been unreasonably aggressive to others and generally inhospitable and intimidating. But aside from this fundamental problem, the roof terrace is unbearably crowded from Friday and into the weekends from as early as 6. You feel like a tin of sardines as you bend and duck around people and they do the same with you. Generally, you always feel that you're in someone's way and the bouncers stop anyone from entering when capacity is full up there. All in all, it's an uncomfortable experience and there really isn't anything chilled out about it. Like Camden Town, there's always a tension around Kings Cross and The Big Chill House fails to keep that vibe outside, much exacerbated by the bouncers. I urge others to consider other places. The Big Chill brand name promises plenty, but in actuality this is a big bar that offers nothing unique. The inside, whilst spacious, has quite a shabby feel to it. There are far better places out there where the bouncers are nicer, atmosphere is more comfortable for friends, parties or even dates, and where the venue looks sophisticated yet still trendy and stylish.
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Reviewer Stuartino
07/05/2010
Being a Big Chill festival goer I wanted to see what the bar was like. I wasn't disappointed. It was busy, but I didn't have to wait long for my food, which is important to me. If I worked abit closer I'd make this a regular hangout.
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Reviewer house
30/03/2010


Was at the House on Friday with some friends and hade an awesome time. Ground floor was jumping and the guy’s behind the bar is making some really nice drinks.

I will defiantly go back there this summer just for the outside Terrace.

Thanks agene

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Reviewer michellexxx
17/06/2009
I had my birthday day at the House at the weekend, on the 1st floor and 1/4 terrace, perfect for my 100 strong group.

Had such a wicked time with my best friend DJ'ing, can't wait to chill on the terrace again on a nice summery day.Big up the House.M
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Reviewer chrissygee
14/06/2009
dj tom middleton absolutely rocked it last night...love this place, great sound system and cool terrace...cant wait for the festival
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Reviewer Charlie888
26/05/2009
The worst customer service ever! I tried to book a place 15 days in advance, never received a confirmation despite my numerous calls and emails.

They then claimed that the booking was 90% confirmed and I just needed to receive the email confirmation as a proof of booking.

Then, 3 days away from the requested date and still no confirmation, I called in and they actually told me, very abruptly, that the requested area was not available unless I booked the full 1st floor (min 120 pp).

Don't go there, it smells of dust, sweat and pee anyway!
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Reviewer Anonymous
22/01/2009
Went to Big Chill house last night for the first time on a date, so wanted to impress the lady.

Absolutley lovely decor, great chandeleer in the front, nice comfortable seating (on the mezzanine was lovely) and generally looked less bland than most bars

However the staff were worse than useless. Cocktails should not be on the menu if staff don't know how to make them, and take 5 mins to serve you on an relatively quiet night.

The food, well, suffice to say we'd never eat there again. A tiny bowl of cold chips was £3.50, the beefburger was raw in the middle and we sent it back, only for it to return hotter but still raw (microwaved?). Pizza was okay, but it's not hard to get right!

The music was great (a Flowmotion night) but the promoter said they won't be doing any more music at the venue?

We had a good night, but i wouldn't go again. A shame as the bar of the same chain in Brick Lane is really lovely to eat there.
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Reviewer Anonymous
07/11/2008
I can't believe this place has been open for 2 years and I hadn't known this for that long!!!!!Lovely establishmentGreat staffGreat securityBig up the House and see you again very soon! L
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Reviewer Anonymous
07/11/2008
I've never had problems with getting served well and early. Sure, when it's packed it can take time, but that's the same in every venue.

I'd highly recommend this place. the music is always fresh and funky, and the staff very helpful.

Oh, and loads of pretty ladies in frocks :)
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Reviewer Anonymous
16/10/2008
Went to Big Chill House on a Tuesday night to catch up with a friend.

Basically, the interior is nice, quite a few sofas packed in, an upstairs bit with more sofas, a large terrace and a downstairs bit i didn't see.

It was OK, but the staff were amatures. They took about 15 minutes to make a Big Chill cocktail for us, blatantly didn't know what went in it, as they weren't even hiding the fact they were just addign random things. They also then stirred it and managed to splash the guy next to us with red drink all over his white shirt - eh wasn't pleased, and all they could say was 'sorry'.

We ordered some food - a bowl of chips (£3.50!!) which were cold and dry, and tasted exactly like cheap oven chips. We also tried a pizza, which was pretty good and hot.
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Reviewer JonnySpeed
06/01/2008
i've been to Big Chill House a few times over the last couple of years and my experience has been mixed. You tend to get out what you put in - be polite to the staff and have a laugh with your mates then everything will be OK... most of the time. I have seen the door staff get unnecessarily arsey with normal people asking normal questions. One time I went in the summer with a male friend who had Carhartt shorts on and they refused him entry under a "strictly no shorts" rule (apparently) but were happy for women to wear anything they wanted including shorts... when we pointed out a group of girls walking in pissed and wearing shorts we were pushed out onto the street and aggressively told to leave under pain for a permanent ban???

Generally the crowd in The Big Chill House is mainstream and middle class. The music is generally alright for a drink and a little boogie.

Overall I'd rate this is a themed chain that never had any spark to loose and definitely lacks the cutting edge music acts that would make this place a "must visit". Sadly great venues in Kings Cross are few and far between and sadly this isn't one of them.
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Reviewer michellexxx
01/12/2007
Ai caramba that is a whole lot of baloney lol

I went to The Big Chill House last night for Keeping it House, it was the first time I had been there and it was heaving. Great atmosphere, lovely staff!
It was amazing that the House was so busy with such a big place and I managed to get served so fast every time, well impressed.

I lost my small precious bracelet very important to me at some point and asked security for some help and one of the security (didn't quite catch his name) got his little torch out and stayed looking until i found it. Thanks if you read this.

One of the best nights I have had in a long time and I def don't say that often.

Oh well you can't take your drinks out on the terrace after 11pm because thats the law but amazing there is a huge terrace you can socialize and smoke on till 3am if you choose.

Will definately be coming back with more people, This is the kind of place London needs more of.

Keep it up

M x
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Reviewer chevvy
12/11/2007
What a load of Anonymous baloney in a previous review. As a regular at Big Chill House I can tell you, The Big Chill specialises in friendliness, as anyone who has been to one of their events/bars will tell you. The door people are lovely (though I don't think I'd like to mess with them!").
Secondly, what's this bull about no drinks on the balcony...Doh! Course there are drinks allowed on the terrace. And what a beautiful south facing terrace it is! x
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Reviewer Anonymous
20/10/2007
Absolutely the rudest bouncers I have ever come acrosss - accused my friend and I of wasting their time when we had trouble remembering what guest list we were on. Not that we needed to be on one as the place was empty at 11pm on a Friday night!

Yes, the terrace is lovely, but what's the point if they don't have a drinks license so you have to leave your drinks inside?!
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Reviewer John Levis
05/11/2007
I have to disagree. My girlfriend and I went to The Big Chill House on Saturday (03/11/07) for a friends 30th birthday and had a great time.

The bouncers were friendly (we had to leave the birthday present of wine at the door which is understandable), the place was busy with a vibrant and fun atmosphere and we were allowed to drink on the fantastic terrace.

My only qualm is we couldn't get a bottle of wine in the basement bar (hired for the party) and had to make do with 4 miniatures instead.
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Reviewer chevvy
12/11/2007
Anoymous baloney-Drinks have always been alowed on the terrace, I've been a regular since the Big Chill House opened and regularly drink out there.
Comment about the door people is rubbish too. If you want to see rude BOUNCERS get yourself to Turnmills!
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Reviewer Anonymous
29/05/2007
Had a wicked night (place was rammed on a Wednesday!), the bar staff were super friendly. Fantastic cocktails especially the Mojitos and Big Chill Punch. Best terrace in London by far. Well done Big Chill, see you at the festival!
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Reviewer chrissygee
29/05/2007
I went there for Old Rope recently, upstairs on a Monday. It's a kind of try-out for comedians where they road test new material, so can be a bit hit or miss, and some of the jokes a bit close to the bone! However, if like me you're not one for the full on 3hr comedy experience (and expense) of the Comedy Store, this is perfect. The room is small, so heckle at your peril!
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Reviewer Clazbar
17/05/2007
I like the Big Chill Bar and the Big Chill Festival so thought I'd give Big Chill House a try. I decided to have my birthday party there and stupidly was not put off by the ineptitude of the staff when trying to make the booking. The bar staff were rude and uncooperative throughout the evening - it's not often that my friends make a point of telling me how rude they've been! To top it off we had a long row with the staff at the end of the night. I won't be going back here again and I advise you not to if you want a chilled night.
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Reviewer Jenny680
22/02/2007
Early in the evening The Big Chill House is a great place to meet, drink and chat. On trying to re-enter the bar after attending a gig in Scala we were confronted with a Gestapo like doorman. Rude and unpleasant doesn't begin to describe him.


We asked for the manager of but the request was ignored. Door staff like that have a really negative impact on a night out (and a business). I won't go back to The Big Chill House!
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Reviewer Michelle87
22/02/2007
I think The Big Chill House is probably the worst place I have ever been in all my years in London. The security were so arrogant and on a power trip. As we went to enter the doorman stopped us and told us we were too drunk, which was ridiculous as we had just been to a gig down the road.


We asked to see the manager and he said it was nothing to do with the manager who comes into the venue, it was down to him, which is an interesting theory. I shall never frequent The Big Chill House again and may think twice about going to the one in Brick Lane.
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Reviewer Anonymous
22/02/2007
We went to The Big Chill House twice last night, before and after a gig. The first time the place was great, with a really good atmosphere and friendly staff. We went back after the gig, and this was a mistake. We were greeted by one of those bouncers who takes it upon himself to ruin the nights of people with friends.


We were told we were too drunk (I think this was based on the fact that one of us had the cheek to laugh as we walked down the street) and that we couldn't come in. Even funnier was when another bouncer came up with a face that said, Not again. This place definitely needs to sort its staff out. So go to The Big Chill House in the day, before the bouncers arrive!
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13/01/2007
The Big Chill House doorman removed the barrier so I made the mistake of stepping through to discover that he had to grant permission and look me in the eye first. He made a song and dance about it for ten minutes, so I apologised as my friends birthday bash was going on inside, and then shouted that I didn't need to apologise. I then had the pleasure of being frisked for ten minutes by a larger lady. She asked if I had any weapons or drugs! Would anyone admit this?


The music at The Big Chill House is some rave concoction from Eastern Europe and the bar service needs sorting out. If you can bare this long enough to find your way upstairs then stay there and don't come down til you are too drunk to remember what rubbish lurks beneath. Upstairs is chilled with live cello, beanbags and a DJ, and nice barstaff. It is not worth it though, I suggest you go somewhere else.
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Reviewer Anonymous
25/08/2006
From what I've heard about Big Chill House it sounds like there will finally be a bar in Kings Cross where you can dress up and have a late night out if you fancy it or just pull on your trainers and tuck into some good grub if you want to relax. About time. Big Chill House bods, I salute you!
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Reviewer Anonymous
17/08/2006
I haven't eaten at The Big Chill House yet as it's not open, but I have been to the Big Chill Bar. If it's anything like as good then it will become a regular haunt of mine. Plus the Big Chill festivals are so good, it can't help but be a fantastic venue.
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Reviewer Anonymous
17/08/2006
The Big Chill House looks like a great place. It's a shame that the opening was moved becuase of the flood, but I'll be there with bells on when it does open next week.


Bring it on Big Chill!
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