64 Queen Victoria Street,
Bank,
London,
EC4N 4PZ
0872 148 0541
Note: Calls cost 10p per min plus network extras.
The ViewLondon Review
There is something exotic about this City bar; in particular, the tempting Asian menu.
The Venue
Despite the poor location - Queen Victoria Street is a rather busy road with a poor flow of people traffic - the Sea Horse remains visible thanks to a pretty curved facade with plenty of windows.
When you step inside the Sea Horse for the first time, you don’t know what to expect. Judging by its exterior, the place could be very big, but in reality there is only one room behind its bold facade. The limited space creates an intimate atmosphere and the simple, modern, dark wooden furniture is almost minimalist and works well with the light that streams in through the large windows. There are a couple of armchairs around a small table, ideal if you pop in during the afternoon.
The Atmosphere
At the Sea Horse the limited space is an advantage. With a quick glance you can see everybody in the pub and the chances of interaction are abundant. Most customers come in for a pint after work so expect lots of suits; however, they seem to bring their friends and there is a high percentage of casually dressed punters, too.
The Food
The Sea Horse menu, which is short and to the point, is where things really become interesting. Asian dishes make a welcome change from the typical British classics that are still represented here. You can order a veggie burger (£5.90) and fish and chips, but these options sit alongside the far more tempting Malay chicken curry and rice (£5.90), Thai chicken curry (£5.90) and other dishes promising the tempting flavours of coconut, lemongrass and spicy peanuts. Cheap, tasty and more than enough to fill you up for lunch, you can complement these mains with starters (£3-£4) also ailing from the Far East.
The Drink
The choice is a bit limited, both regarding the beer and wine selection. However, the regulars don’t seem to mind. Wine, as customary in The City, is a favourite and is particularly cheap. Both whites and reds cost £10.50-£15.50 with three bottles also available by the glass, and they’re accompanied by well written, descriptive tasting notes. You can order from five whites and as many reds, as well as two roses and four sparkling options.
The Last Word
The low prices and tempting food make the Sea Horse a good spot for when you want to give yourself and your wallet a rest.
The Sea Horse has been reviewed by 6 users