100 Upper Street,
Islington,
London,
N1 0NP
0872 148 1209
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Relaxed and easygoing, The Bull is great for catching up, having a chat, and drinking fine beer over interesting snacks.
The Venue
Ideally located at the centre of Upper Street, The Bull is spatially impressive inside and out. The decor consists of wood, reds and creams, accessorised with a good mixture of modern and traditional elements such as artistically-inspired black and white photos and pleasantly simple touches like lilies on the bar.
Downstairs consists of various comfy sofa and coffee table arrangements with a cosy secluded corner to the rear, offering a great space for romantic candlelit meals or relaxed group reunions. Up the spiralling staircase to the top floor, you’ll find more basic yet accommodating arrangements for large groups consisting of benches, stools and an allotment of differently-sized large wooden tables, all with a good view of the open kitchen.
The Atmosphere
Slow paced and relaxing, the vibe at The Bull is definitely chilled. Comfy sofas welcome the weary and mellow music plays softly in the background. As is expected with an Upper Street venue, there seems to be no set clientele, but it is popular with a laid back yet jumbled mixture of couples, after work groups, and hip twenty-to-thirtysomethings.
The Food
Offering an interesting twist on the typical tapas menu, The Bull provides the usual sharing snacks such as olives, hummus and wedges with the added highlight of sausage rolls complemented with ketchup.
There is a brunch selection of sandwiches served the contemporary way on rustic breads with all time classics like steak and onion, and more up to date ingredients such as roasted vegetables and hummus. There is also the popular choice of fish fingers dressed in an interesting lime mayo. The mains board continues to use contemporary ingredients such as butternut squash and lentils alongside the traditional favourites like steak, pies and burgers.
The Drink
Offering up your usual pub fare but also dabbling in the unique, the wide selection of drinks will ensure that the ale, lager and wine crowds are all satisfied here.
There is a vast selection of real ales and a interesting mixture of beers on tap such as Erdinger and Franziskaner Wheat beer. There’s also a vast selection of fruit beers imported from all over the world, resulting in a nice, sweet-tasting selection that is well worth a try.
The Last Word
In line with Islington’s contemporary laid back vibe, The Bull is not pushy or overpowering, and its unobtrusive approach allows you to sit back, relax and enjoy fine wines, tasty ales and good beer.
The Bull has been reviewed by 3 users