The ViewLondon Review
Slightly off the beaten track, The Well markets itself as a gastro pub for grown ups by providing a more formal approach to service, and skirting around the edges of hiking up the prices to match.The VenueThe residents of Clerkenwell are not short of a gastro pub or two, and with so much choice in the area even this old stalwart has a competition on its hands. With bright, full-length windows on both sides of the corner it sits on, The Well is the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by. It’s bright and airy, and in the summer the windows open to allow the mostly-suited crowd to spill out onto the streets. There is also a basement area, which creates an intimate space for private parties with leather banquettes, mirror-topped tables and two tanks of slightly bemused looking fish.
The AtmosphereThe Well is obviously a locals favourite. Lunches are often really busy and it can be almost impossible to get a table during after-work drinking hours, especially towards the weekend. There is no concession made for diners either, despite the formal style of service, and even booking is no guarantee of having a table away from sprawling groups of post work imbibers. The basement area provides a lively party atmosphere but there is no way of buffering the noise, which inevitably spills upstairs.
The FoodCatch it at the right time and the food is what gives The Well its deserved reputation. The cuisine is English with French influences, and it’s good, wholesome stuff. There is a varied choice on the main menu, complemented by interesting daily specials, and the fish is fresh from Billingsgate Market. However, as is often the case, the vegetarian choices are limited. It teeters on the brink of being in the pricey bracket but generally the food is well prepared, nicely presented, tasty and exactly what one expects for formal gastro pub dining.
The DrinkThey carry a reasonable wine menu that favours Spanish style wines, but the range is fairly traditional. There are a handful of interesting choices but they do languish at the pricier end. Cocktails are available, with freshly squeezed juices and smoothies also on offer, along with a selection of lagers on draught and in bottles. However, there is a notable lack of ales, real or otherwise, which is obviously a concession to the tastes of the locals over the traditionalists.
The Last WordThe Well is an excellent place to eat and the staff are generally friendly and well informed. The only area it falls down in is the feeling of confusion over whether it’s a restaurant or a pub.