Despite the obvious links to the black stuff, The Toucan manages not to come across as a tacky Guinness theme pub. Instead, you’ll be seduced by the neighbourhood charm of this very fine pub.

The Venue
With its black façade nestled behind a small railing in a quiet Soho street, The Toucan has an enviable location. The area throngs with custom and you’ll never find it empty during lunch or after-work.

The pub’s soulful darkness lures you into this tiny space, which is decorated with classic Guinness adverts and slogans advocating at least a pint per day (for medicinal purposes, naturally). Seating is scarce and it’s usually packed, so you're best heading into the basement bar if you want food. Beneath street level the bar continues with the Guinness feel and, although small, there’s a jolly atmosphere in effect.

The Atmosphere
The Toucan is a bit of an institution in the area and it’s always buzzing whatever hour you turn up. A friendly, neighbourly atmosphere keeps people coming back. Although the Guinness theme is clearly prevalent there is less to mock here than in one of the many chain pubs in the area, which knock up posters and branding without having half the character the Toucan possesses.

The Food
Jacket potatoes, sandwiches and pies are all present and correct on The Toucan’s menu. It’s all home-cooked and authentic, like the champ that comes with most of the pies. It's cheap too: order classic Irish stew for a cracking £5, or enjoy an entrée of Irish rock oysters (£5) before you settle down to your Guinness.

The Drink
Grolsch, Carling and Magners cider line-up alongside the multiple Guinness pumps that serve one of the best pints you will find in London. Most people won’t even want anything else, it being a Guinness bar and all, but on top of the beers there is also a vast array of rare Irish whiskies. If you can’t afford the ludicrously expensive though, just settle for a Jameson’s.

The Last Word
The Toucan is a proper pub. It appeals to everyday Soho residents and workers, as well as the great swells of tourists it attracts. Always entertaining and always full, it must be because it’s good for you.

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