Oh dear. 20 years ago, this pub was notorious for being littered with prostitutes and for being very lively. To be honest, I wish it still was, as it would be a dramatic improvement on how it is now!
When I moved to Shepherd's Market 2 years ago, I hurried excitedly to Ye Grapes, having read about it in good pub guides, heard of its history and finally seen it looking beautiful and proud in the corner of the square. I was not amused when I found pints of lager almost double that of the pub round the corner and that I would ideally have infra-red goggles to see the bar man! Dark, dank and gloomy screamed at me from every angle in this place and the people didn't aspire to much more it seemed.
Disappointed, I decided to return at a busier time of day only to find that the place had attracted the after work pub-going suits. This isn't usually the end of the world but this place seems to be an American Psychoesque magnet for pompous, arrogant arses that frankly think they have a lot more than they actually do.
I scowl now every time I'm on my way back from Tescos!
Have a look through the door (maybe have a guided tour), but don't buy a pint.