Both historic and hidden, Ye Grapes in Mayfair has lost some of its luster, yet drinkers still flock to this traditional English pub.

The Venue
Getting to this pub involves a short detour from Green Park station. Leave the main strip and you will find a dimly lit, narrow street that winds its way up to Shepherd Market and into this quaint village setting. Ye Grapes stands proudly in the corner. As the name suggests this is an old pub. It was built in 1882 by the Victorians and the original external features such as leaded windows and glazed tiling still remain.

Inside, velvet curtains and period bric-a-brac like stuffed birds and hunting trophies hang from the walls, and make great talking points, although the once quirky interior now looks a little neglected and threadbare. The bar takes up most of the ground floor, and in front of it lies a seating area with cosy snugs, which are usually snapped up quickly. The back room is adequate for a small group of friends, and upstairs has a dining area with its own corner bar.

The Atmosphere
The popularity of this pub owes much to the army of well healed office workers in Mayfair who make a beeline for Ye Grapes, especially when the weather is fine. As the bar is so small, crowds spill out onto the street and the atmosphere, though fun, is sometimes boistrous. Thursday and Friday evenings are very busy here and service can be slow, despite the best efforts of the bar staff.

The Drink
Ye Grapes prides itself on its choice of real ales and wines. The well stocked bar also has various lagers and spirits. Overall, the offering is fairly good, though a touch pricey, but that's to be expected in swish Mayfair.

The Food
The dining room serves up reasonably priced Thai cusine, but the decor upstairs is noticeably scruffy and off-putting.

The Last Word
Depite its unkempt state, Ye Grapes is a curious pub with a rich history, which in itself warrants at least one visit.

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