The Wheatsheaf is a traditional pub providing straightforward service, drink and food. Do not expect any extravagances: if anything, its bare simplicity could be interpreted as lack of character.

The Venue
The first thing you will encounter approaching The Wheatsheaf is the outdoor seating area. Do not stop there: this old-looking, typically British pub is welcoming at first glance but the real atmosphere can be breathed only inside.

Past the bar, located right at the entry, the back room is very cozy thanks to the low couches and the countryside feel its decor inspires. But if you are looking for a more peaceful environment, the room on the first floor, painted in red and boasting stained glass windows overlooking the rather quiet street, is perfect.

The Atmosphere
Very sociable (partly due to the little space), enjoyable, unassuming, and down to earth, The Wheatsheaf is the quintessence of a pub. In the alcohol infused air, a friendly crowd of twenty-to-thirtysomethings mix freely with the occasional odd personality donning a full purple hairdo or avant-garde clothes. This is definitely a good place to socialise, despite the not entirely friendly bar staff and the real lack of space near the bar, which is very annoying at times. The loud party music helps to ignite the atmosphere and the TV screens are another reason for excitement but the crowd of regulars could as well do without.

The Drink
The beer range includes a fair share of continental bottles like Peroni, Becks, San Miguel, Corona and others, all fairly priced at around £3. Spirits and some wines are also available but if your thirst stretches anywhere further than beer, you are not in the right place: The Wheatsheaf is truly a straightforward, no-frills pub and you are better off sticking to what they do best.

The Food
British pub grub all the way. The menu is simple and meant to satisfy an unfussy pallete. Expect to find snacks (£2-£3), oven baked potatoes (£4-£4.50) and baguettes (£4-£4.60) including a tempting chicken, bacon and guacamole variety. The mains (£5.25-£7) are pretty much what you want at a traditional pub: steak and stilton pie, home made steak and ale casserole, chicken, leek and ham pie, breaded wholetail scampi and vegetable curry for the vegetarians. Food is not very popular with the locals, most paying a visit for the drinks only, and you shouldn’t expect restaurant quality, but it will still fill your stomach on a decently low budget.

The Last Word
The Tottenham Court Road area is full of traditional pubs like this and it cannot be argued that The Wheatsheaf distinguishes itself for a particular reason. However, if you stumble upon it while thirsty for a simple pint, order with confidence.

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