If you love dishes with fancy names but hate the pretentious attitude that goes with them then you'll love this gastro pub.

The Venue
Sat on a quiet leafy street, the Drapers Arms is a stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Upper Street in Islington, yet tucked away enough to maintain its local boozer appeal. Although there’s nothing distinctive about its clean-looking appearance from the outside, the interior is pleasant and the massive Georgian building perfectly combines modernity with tradition across its two floors.

Upon entering the pub, you'll be taken aback by the length of the curve-shaped bar and the general size of the place. Downstairs, there's a decent amount of seating with tables and chairs generously dotted across the wooden floor. At the back, there's a quirky fireplace area with a couple of sofas, a rug and a selection of books and board games on the back shelf. Pass the well-signposted loos you'll hit a reasonably-sized beer garden with benches and tables. Upstairs, there's a rather grand formal dining area, which is ideal if you're looking for somewhere to enjoy a meal with a group of people.

The Atmosphere.
Although this upmarket North London local epitomises everything typical about gastro pubs, the staff provide the edge. They're friendly, accommodating and somehow, no matter how busy and stressful their shift might be, they always seem to be there to help. Impressive.

Understandably, given its high profile opening and links with Ben Maschler, the Drapers Arms is full of well-bred locals who aren't short of cash. However, although you won't find anyone dressed in sports gear, it's not at all snooty and if you're visiting the area and want to pop in for a quick pint or glass of wine you won't be made to feel uncomfortable. The Drapers Arms is also child friendly, so you won't be frowned upon if you bring your little ones into the pub.

The Food
The menus vary seasonally and offer a good selection of classic dishes. As expected, food is cheaper in the bar. Small dishes on the bar menu cost between £4.50-£6 and include a good range of options: celery soup; radish, fennel and parsley salad; and brawn, toast and pickles. There's also crusty bread (which you can see being sliced at the bar) and non-pitted, fresh and not too bitter olives, which are £1.50 and £2.50 respectively – although these are free if you’re sitting down in the pub or restaurant for a meal. Main dishes on the same menu cost around £8-£12.50 and include quail lentils and wild garlic, kipper and warm potato salad, and ox tongue, fried potatoes and piccalilli.

The Drink
The bar at the Drapers Arms is impressively stocked. Beers on tap include Harveys, Black Sheep and Spitfire (costing around £3.20 a pint) and there's a huge and detailed wine list with white, red, rose, sparkling and sweet wines, which are served by the glass and carafe. The house costs a reasonable £3.60 for a 175ml glass. There's a huge selection of sprits on offer (priced around £3-£4 for a single shot with a mixer). Soft drinks and coffees come in at £2-£4.

The Last Word
The Drapers Arms is undoubtedly upmarket; however, it’s conversely unpretentious. With amazingly friendly staff and a relaxed atmosphere, it's worth checking out if you're in the area, providing a welcomed respite from the madcap antics of nearby Upper Street.

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