Great boozer shows improvement

The Prince Arthur is a very rare thing. It's a really great boozer, which has improved continually since its metamorphosis from one of London's least likeable pubs into a place you just don't want to leave.

Beers are well kept and in plentiful supply, and there's a good, reasonably priced wine list on offer too. Unlike the growing number of gastropubs where you won't see change from a tenner for a fishfinger sandwich, the Prince Arthur offers an excellently priced basic menu, (ace Thai and sturdy pub staples) and concentrates on what it does best: looking after its customers.

The staff are cheery and are clearly chosen for their ability to keep things running very smoothly. With table service being the order of the day, it's easy to while away many a night in there. The music remains unobtrusive, and uniformly ear-pleasing. It's not a place where you normally get shouty punters: it just has a lovely, cosy vibe. There's nothing studied, or obviously worked on in here. It's just a lovely, traditional boozer that has had its rough edges ironed out, and been cleaned up, but not cleared out. Undoubtedly the best pub in the area by a country mile, if you're around, give it a go. You won't be disappointed.

CLIENTELE: locals, local workers
FOOD REVIEW: The Prince Arthur serves pretty decent Thai food.
FOOD RATING: 2
FOOD VALUE: 1
NEAREST STATION: Euston station
FEATURES: open after 11:00pm, outdoor seating

The Prince Arthur
80-82 Eversholt Street, NW1 1BX