48 Chapel Street,
London,
NW1 5DP
0871 971 6365
The ViewLondon Review
It's hard finding spiritual replenishment in the capital these days. Controversy riddles the Church of England, Buddhist temples aren't easy to stumble upon and yoga isn't cool any more. But be honest: you may think you want to cleanse your soul, but wouldn't you be just as happy with a strong gin and tonic?
If so, then O come all ye faithless to the Chapel. Situated in the marginally less-than-holy vicinity of Edgware Road, it's about as close to a tube station as a pub can get without being in one. One of a handful of surprisingly good drinkeries in the quiet streets between Edgware Road and Marylebone, it's by far the most accessible and popular.
The Chapel profits from numerous offices nearby and on weeknights is fairly heaving from six to eight. In summer it's especially busy, being favoured by a modest – but, for the area, unusual – beer garden as well as a decent-sized indoor bar.
The décor of this interior is well-judged. It's not particularly surprising or exciting, but it's simple, it's friendly and it's a change from the choice of fusty pubs and musty 'clubs' that smatter this location.
You're spoiled for choice round here as far as Mezze go – and very nice too – but the Chapel is alone in offering fresh yet sophisticated, high-brow gastro-pub fayre. It seems to be doing well out of its fish-out-of-water status, and the well-appointed, comforting and interestingly shaped restaurant room is choc-a-bloc – especially at lunchtimes and weekends.
Not only that, but dishes such as Gnocchi shells with fresh garden peas and Ragout of sea bass, red snapper and oysters are so delicious that they're winning awards. The food comes at a price, but it really is worth splashing out on.
Unusually for an office-drinks-dominated pub, I'd heartily recommend The Chapel to locals too – and I should know, because I used to be one. It's bright, it's buzzing, it's cool, it's downright tasty – get down on your knees and worship, people!
The Chapel has been reviewed by 4 users