A rare pub in the land of private clubs and discreet hotels, The Blue Posts brings rustic charm to St James.

The Venue
The Blue Posts is a handsome old gent; more loyal butler than landed-gentry in a solid and dependable vein. Dark woods, patterned curtains and deep burgundy walls make it feel cosy and traditional. It's not a large venue, but there is adequate seating, and when the sun shines, the patrons spill out onto the pavement. A large plasma television is kept on mute as are the couple of VLTs. Upstairs there is a separate small dining area. The only real downpoint are the toilets, which could do with some attention.

The Atmosphere
From middle-aged office manager types sipping on alcopops through a straw, to pinstriped hedge fund gents with a pint of real ale, The Blue Posts hosts a polite white collar crowd. There is not much jostling here. What adds to the staid but comfortable air is the blissful quiet. There is no piped-in music and all of the electronic gadgets are muffled so there is only a pleasant buzz of conversation, the tinking of glasses and clanking of plates. It feels like you can think clearly in here - a blessing for Central London.

The Food
Blue Posts has a changing seasonal menu where nothing tops £9. The regular menu has standard pub fare, such as gammon and chips and pie of the day. They also offer sharing platters for snacking on with a drink - good for sustaining a lengthy natter. It’s nothing that you won’t have seen a thousand times before across London pubs, but it’s decent grub that will fill a hole.

The Drink
A changing guest ale such as Abbott Ale is rich, full-bodied and well kept. Stonehenge Ale is lighter and sharper in taste, in a refreshing kind of way. A seasonal cocktail list offers such intriguing options as a Jerry and Ginger or Frosty Jack, all for under £5. A very interesting wine list offers an excellent choice of drinkable, and affordable, options. Almost all of them come in at well under 20 quid a bottle, which is welcome in tight financial times.

The Last Word
Sometimes the neighbourhood of St James can be a bit uppity, but not The Blue Posts. It covers all the basics simply and economically.

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