A well-kept, popular and traditional local with a few contemporary touches, Elephant Inn also boasts a superb Thai restaurant.

The Venue
Standing on the stretch of Ballards Lane, leading to the centre of North Finchley, Elephant Inn has gone from strength to strength over the years. The venue is set back from the main road and preceded by a fully covered, heated seating area. You walk through the main doors of the double-fronted building and can head straight up to the bar, which stands in the middle and wraps around into both rooms: the comfy and airy lounge and the former public bar – now home to the big screen and fruit machines.

This pub has undergone regular refurbs but still maintains its oak-panelled walls and classic old pub props like local photos on the wall, mirrored signage and frosted lampshades. Low, comfy leather sofas add a contemporary edge to the lounge area. Through the doors at the end of the lounge bar and up the stairs is the Thai restaurant.

The Atmosphere
There's always an interesting mix of locals at the Elephant Inn, including a large contingent of workmen having a beer after a hard day’s graft, so expect some long stares if you walk in through the side door into the former public bar, which remains a mostly male domain. Very friendly, with excellent service from the bar and restaurant staff more than make up for any momentary feelings of discomfort.

The Food
The Thai restaurant upstairs at the Elephant Inn serves an extensive, mouth-wateringly detailed menu, which is also available all day in the pub. It is virtually impossible to resist ordering a little something as you sit and enjoy a drink, even if it is just some delicious dim sum or a warming bowl of coconut soup.

The Drink
A solid selection of wine is well displayed on the back bar, and includes roses and Champagne. There is an equally broad range of draught beers and ales to choose from too, and regular beer festival guest ales offer a new beer to try each month. And, of course, there are also Thai beers: Singha, Chang and Harbins.

The Last Word
The Elephant Inn is a smart, mostly hospitable, comfortable local with an irresistible Thai menu.

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