If random decor doesn’t offend your sensibilities, this warm and cosy pub offers a welcoming sanctuary with plenty of space, an exceptional wine list, and good food in a friendly atmosphere.

The Venue
The Builders Arms is a short walk from Sloane Square Tube station, but if you’ve not been there before then make sure you know where you’re going – it’s not on the main drag. Once you’re on the right road, however, you can’t miss it, as it’s the only pub on a residential street.

As befits Chelsea the whole place is better appointed than your standard pub. The outside frontage features large awnings over tables with cushioned seats, whilst inside the place is split broadly into a bar and dining section. The bar is to the right as you enter and is really quite small, but manages to fit in a few couches for those just drinking. Off to the left is a larger dining section, with a long passage at the back where a few more tables squeezed in.

Aside from the bar area – which gets a bit cosy when there’s more than a few punters – there’s a distinct feeling of space, with high ceilings and vaulted skylights opening the place out. The decor, however, ensures that it never feels stark but warm and welcoming, with grey wallpaper with white motifs, soft cushioned chairs in a variety of colours, wooden tables throughout and, most noticeably, an eclectic mix of items – bookshelves here, and painting of the Mona Lisa with fish swimming through her head there. The effect is welcoming and relaxing – but if you’re looking for a highly stylised establishment, this isn’t it.

The Atmosphere
Given the area it’s a relatively well-heeled crowd, but as the more fashion-conscious aren’t attracted by the decor it’s an unpretentious vibe. The dining side is a little quieter, as expected, but the larger tables can attract celebratory parties who can get a little more raucous.

Overall, though, it’s a laid back and friendly place, with everyone looking to have a relaxed good time. The waiting staff are friendly and attentive too, and more than happy to assist with recommendations. You’ll hear soft jazz coming through the speakers, but it’s kept low enough that most of the noise you hear will be everyone else’s conversation.

The Food
Food is served from seven every night, though the kitchen closes at varying times throughout the week. If you’re looking for standard pub grub be aware that the menu reflects the more upmarket tastes of its Chelsea surrounds, but you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. It’s not an extensive menu, and vegetarians, in particular, will not find themselves spoilt for choice.

Four starters, as well as one or two daily specials, are available from £5.50 to £7.00. The warm Somerset Camembert and walnuts with rocket and pear (£5.50) is really a fully-fledged Camembert salad, with the crunchy walnuts and tangy pear making for an interesting and tasty combination. Devilled kidneys on toast (£6.00) may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the kidneys are tender, hearty and are served with a delicious balsamic and raspberry reduction on a hefty piece of toast.

The selection of mains is broader though still relatively small. The beer battered fish and chips (£12.00) is presented amidst scraps of newspaper, which is a nice touch – but more importantly the fish is light and flaky and the hand cut chips are exceptional. You will also find the requisite mushy peas. The char-grilled West Country rib-eye steak is excellent, though be aware that you can definitely taste the effects of the char-grilling, which will not be to everyone’s taste. The same hand cut chips are present too, along with a trio of sauces and a tomato. It’s a great steak but could perhaps do without being served in a bowl.

A selection of sides are available, such as a rocket and parmesan salad (£3), which offers plenty of both components. Desserts are also worth checking out. The selection of British cheeses (£7.00) – cheddar, Camembert, blue cheese - is served with plenty of slices of bread, and it all goes well with the accompanying quince jelly. Much more disappointing is the chocolate brownie with ice cream (£6.00), which is not a brownie at all but a big piece of cake, and a very dry one at that.

The Drink
Wine is the definite focus at the Builders Arms, with an extensive wine list offering a broad choice no matter what variety you desire. There’s also a welcome breadth of pricing, with many bottles available for under £20 as well as a wide selection in the mid-range between £20 and £40, all the way up to £135 for a bottle of Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill 1998.

In terms of making your choice the wine list is helpful on its own – dividing whites up into ‘crisp and cool’, ‘aromatic’ and ‘Chardonnay lovers and friends’ – but the waiting staff are happy to make a recommendation if you need more assistance. If you enjoy a Chardonnay, the Louis Latour 2008 is crisp and fruity and the price is right (£17.20).

The Last Word
You’re not likely to end up in the Builders Arms without making the effort to find it, but if you do you’ll find a relaxed and welcoming pub with good food and a friendly vibe.

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