1 Poultry,
The City,
London,
EC2R 8EJ
0872 148 0538
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
Broke bankers. Destitute brokers. As the recession hits you’ll find them at this cheap City pub, drinking their sorrows away over one too many pints.
The Venue
Large and modern with a traditional edge, the Green Man is spread across two levels, each with its own bar. The ground floor is average in size, whilst the basement is much larger than other pubs in the area. The furniture comprises booths, high tables and semicircular alcoves where small groups can enjoy some privacy. The soft carpet and shades of wood are a tribute to old boozers but otherwise The Green Man is a modern space, typical of Wetherspoons pubs.
The Atmosphere
The Green Man attracts a regular crowd thanks to its very cheap prices. Some are City workers looking to escape the competitive City atmosphere, but many others are random groups of ladies in their fifties having fun over a meal and a drink, and casual young men in jeans. The place has a buzzing ambience but is a bit impersonal.
The Food
The comprehensive menu includes classic pub grub at extraordinarily low prices. Starters (from £2.60) include breaded mushrooms, chicken wings and spicy king prawns, whilst mains (£6.20-£10) include sweet potato and spinach curry, chicken tikka masala, sausage and mash and an 8oz sirloin steak. If you’re really strapped for cash, you can order a value main for £4-£5 and pick from lasagna, five bean chilli, and fish and chips. Countless sandwiches, burgers, jacket potatoes and desserts are also available.
The Drink
Beer here is cheap and the selection is rather good. A pint of Becks or Green King is a mere £1.79. Eastern European beers are particularly well represented with Zywiec, Tyskie, Kozel, Lech and Lucan (£3.30). There’s also a good choice of cider (£3.20-£4), including Kopparberg Summer Fruits, Weston Perry, Mangers, Bulmers and Jacques.
Wine is priced at £10.65-15.20 per bottle, although the house bottles do have a vinegary kick. They also serve basic cocktails (£8.10 for a pitcher) and a decent number of standard spirits, priced from only £1.90 for a shot of Cognac.
The Last Word
Rather devoid of atmosphere, the Green Man is a good option for a cheap evening out. City workers hit by the recession can swap their £30 lunches for a £5.60 deal including burger, chips and a pint. Bargain.
The Green Man has been reviewed by 1 users