37 Great Windmill Street,
Soho,
London,
W1D 7LU
(020) 7437 3983
The ViewLondon Review
The Lyric may be just another traditional pub in Central London, but it gives off a feeling of cosiness and charm on a small side road off Great Windmill Street.
The Venue
The Lyric has found a fairly uninterrupted spot that, despite being in the close vicinity to some of Soho’s raunchier clubs, feels calm and serene. The pub’s facade is a blast from the publican past with a heavy load of hanging baskets above the door, spilling out flowers along the length of the premises, complementing the emerald green sparkle of vintage-looking tiles.
Once you’re through the wooden door, the same sense of comfort is prevalent within. The sturdy bar stands to the left and just bends away from the window to leave a fine little spot at the end for gazing out at the street. Large wooden barrels act as tables that stand high, surrounded by stools, and closer to the dusty wooden floor there are more intimate tables. The mint green paintwork on the walls adds good colour to the natural brown colour scheme and tips the aesthetic of the pubs towards considered old-fashioned design.
The Atmosphere
The Lyric provides a good alternative to the more commercial bars in the area. As well as an interesting menu, it has the attraction of local groups that don’t overrun the place. You’ll find a slightly different crowd at the weekend when football is shown and the atmosphere cranks up a gear. It remains fairly quiet during the day, but there isn’t a sense of loneliness as the staff bustle around. Private parties are catered for upstairs in a dining area.
The Food
The Lyric serves a range of food at the more expensive end of the pub spectrum. Rib eye steak and chips (£10), grilled lamb cutlets with Mediterranean couscous (£9) and roast pork belly with mash and red cabbage (£8) all look good. There are also sandwiches and burgers.
The Drink
A machine streams out fresh coffee, which makes it a hit during the day, and other hot drinks are available. The fridges are stocked with bottled beers and there are occasional deals like five bottles of Stella or Becks for £10. There is Carling, Becks and Stella on draught and Wychert, London Pride and Landlord ales.
The Last Word
The Lyric is a sweet little pub with a relaxed atmosphere and a pleasing decor. It’s the perfect place to get away from the bigger brand pubs that litter Central London.
The Lyric has been reviewed by 2 users