Teriyaki, ale and rock and roll – that’s the enjoyably contrasting attractions of Canonbury’s Snooty Fox.

The Venue
The Snooty Fox is directly opposite London Overground’s Canonbury station. This prime location is one of the reasons it has grown in popularity in the last few years. Equally it has hit upon a unique formula that gives youngish customers what they can’t get elsewhere.

Physically the Snooty Fox is a pleasant 1920s building with a single lounge interior and one bar. An outside patio area gives extra space. Fittings are comfortable if decidedly faded but some may feel this adds to the vintage feel.

Rock and Roll is what the pub is all about. The hallowed vinyl juke box plays 45s from the golden age of rock and roll – the 50s and 60s. Select from Elvis, Dusty, Otis, Stones, The Beatles and many more. Saturday gives off even greater vibes with DJs spinning tracks from the same era to an enthusiastic crowd. Yet these aren’t those recalling JFK and the miniskirt but today’s twenty and thirtysomethings, who are relatively new fans of the music.

Thursday nights are quieter with a jazz duo tinkling tastefully. This is except for the last Thursday in the month when the pub hosts Ukey Love. This is an open mic session for ukulele players - original and lots of fun.

The Atmosphere
The Snooty Fox is unpretentious. Young professionals mix companionably with Islington workers. Much of this engaging atmosphere reflects the winning personality of manager, Nicole Gale. Her parents are long-time publicans and she knows how to put people at ease.

The Food
Teriyaki comes from the Snooty Fox’s Japanese chef – and the manger is half-Japanese. So dishes such as edamame (steamed Japanese green soya beans) feature in the menu. Fusion is the dominant feature of the offerings, however. A favourite is spit-roasted free-range chicken, and steaks and fish dishes also feature. To emphasise Britishness, the Sunday roast attracts many locally.

The Drink
The quality of its real ale is a decided plus. St Austell Tribute is the house bitter. Enterprisingly, moreover, the pub offers beers from new and acclaimed London breweries as Redemption of Tottenham and Sambrook’s of Battersea. Four lagers are available including Pilsner Urquell and Addlestone’s cider is on draught. The wine list is comprehensive and the wines by the glass are better than those at most pubs, exemplified by the inclusion of a Chilean Carmenere.

The Last Word
The Snooty Fox is cheerful and musical. It’s not for those who want a quiet contemplative pint. But choose it for great real ale, good humour, energy and buzz.

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