2 Haverstock Hill,
Camden,
London,
NW3 2BL
0872 148 2128
The ViewLondon Review
In these days of gastro-pubs and cocktail bars, it is nice to see the old-fashioned boozer can still survive.The VenueDon’t be a loser, drink in our boozer, reads a chalkboard sign outside The Enterprise in Chalk Farm. This typically upfront sentiment is echoed in the Enterprise’s imposing jet-black facade. Located opposite the Roundhouse Theatre and Chalk Farm tube station, there is a steady footfall past its doorways and it is regularly filled with a good mix of local workers on their way home, and visitors to this suburb of Camden Town.
The AtmosphereWhilst the exterior might be more Klingon Battleship than Starfleet Enterprise, the interior has a much friendlier atmosphere. A literary theme is apparent with many portraits pictures of literary greats like W.B. Yeats adorning the walls, and a large antiquated bookcase to the rear of the pub. This is particularly obvious in summer, when the darkness is accentuated by the bright outdoors, leading to many customers bringing stools from the bar to the street outside. Sporting events draw in the masses and on the weekend nights, the crowds pour for the regular live music and DJs and the Enterprise, with its high ceiling and spacious bar, becomes an excellent venue for live music.
The FoodThe food in the Enterprise is a solid array of pub grub and priced very reasonably with fish and chips and their own excellent Enterprise burger both for about £6.00. The food is pretty rough-and-ready, but this has not affected its popularity and the portions are pretty generous for the prices. Particularly recommended is their selection of burgers, with each moist and perfectly-cooked burger coming accompanied by a generous portion of proper, thick-cut chips and garnish.
The DrinkAnother straightforward aspect of the pub - impartial bar staff serving all of the standard mainline beers, lagers, spirits and a good selection of wines that one might expect in a pub. It also offers a selection of cocktails and shooters to please the weekend crowds.
The Last WordWhile it is doubtful that Yeats himself would have drunk in this bar, The Enterprise is a fine and down-to-earth boozer – nothing more – but certainly nothing less.