Seemor
The Starting GateBWorth Trying
alexandra palace, Station Rd, London N22 7SS
· Pub
· 4.4/5 Google (1657 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Characterful Ally Pally pub with good roasts and crowd-pleasing mains, lively pre- and post-event energy, fair value for food but drinks can feel pricey; service ranges from warmly attentive to inconsistent on peak days.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
The Starting Gate delivers reliable gastro-pub dining with solid food quality anchored by praised roasts, burgers, and creative small plates. Exceptional Victorian character and attractive location near the station create genuine appeal, while staff show genuine warmth and attentiveness. However, quality dips noticeably during peak Sundays and event surges—cold roasts, temperature issues, and service delays—preventing grade A-grade territory. Best visited on quieter midweek evenings when the kitchen and team perform at their strongest.
Restaurant Summary
Set opposite the station for Alexandra Palace, this Victorian pub feels warm and bustling with stained glass, wood paneling, and a bright, airy bar that fills quickly before gigs. Guests talk about servers who remember names and pitch in when it is busy, like a visitor who said the team was a warm ray of sunshine on a rough day. On event nights the vibe can surge and the music ramps up, so expect a lively crowd rather than hushed calm. The kitchen takes a modern gastro-pub path—elevated British staples accented with global touches like miso chicken skewers and harissa, plus roasts that regulars return for. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with creative accents: familiar comfort prepared with better ingredients and a few spice-driven twists rather than theatrics. On quieter days plates arrive promptly and look sharp; during Sunday or concert rushes, timing and temperature can wobble, so plan accordingly. Families do well here thanks to kid-friendly classics like burgers, fish and chips, and chicken Milanese, plus easy-going desserts. There is no dedicated kids menu on the provided list, but options are flexible and staff have arranged alternatives when needed. If you have selective eaters, steer toward the burger, fish and chips, or a simple pasta, and save the bolder items for adventurous diners.
At a Glance
- Charming Grade II Victorian interior with lively pre/post-event energy
- Roasts, burgers, and fish and chips earn frequent praise
- Service and food temperature can slip on peak Sundays and event surges
- Drinks pricing often feels high to guests
- Peak event times bring crowding, loud music, and occasional plastic cups
What Sets It Apart
- grade_ii_victorian_building
- directly_opposite_ally_pally_station
- strong_group_event_handling
What People Love
- Heritage pub atmosphere that feels authentic
- Attentive staff who go out of their way to help
- Comforting roasts and hearty pub mains
- Convenient location directly by the station
Points of Concern
- Food and drinks can be slow or mistaken during event surges and peak Sundays (medium frequency)
- Some guests find music volume and crowd levels too high on busy nights (medium frequency)
- Drinks, especially wine and cocktails, often feel overpriced relative to expectations (high frequency)
- Occasional defensive tone in management replies online (low to medium frequency)
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£37-52 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For value: Burger (£20) or Chicken Milanese (£19) plus a shared side
- For pescatarians: Pan-Roasted Cod (£25) or Calamari starter (£8.5)
- For vegans: Butternut Squash & Beetroot Salad (£15.5) and Mushrooms on Toast (£8.5)
Perfect For
- Pre-concert meal before an Alexandra Palace show
- Relaxed Sunday roast with the family
- Casual date night in a historic pub
- Group celebrations with reserved space
Location Insights
Area: Leafy, historic enclave anchored by Alexandra Palace and station; mix of event-goers, locals, and weekend walkers.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked on event days and weekends; typical urban vigilance otherwise.
Nearby: Directly opposite Alexandra Palace station; near Alexandra Palace park and event halls, with steady footfall before and after shows.
Wood GreenWood Green is a bustling residential and commercial neighborhood with a lively high street featuring a variety of shops, eateries, and entertainment venues. The dining scene is eclectic, reflecting the area's diverse population, with options ranging from casual cafes to international cuisine. It is a well-connected area popular with locals and visitors alike, offering a friendly and accessible atmosphere.
Alexandra Palace AreaThe Alexandra Palace area is centered around the historic Alexandra Palace park and event venue, attracting visitors for concerts, exhibitions, and outdoor activities. Dining options here tend to cater to event-goers and park visitors, with casual eateries and pubs providing a relaxed environment. The area combines cultural vibrancy with green space, making it a unique micro-neighborhood within Wood Green.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday11:00–00:00
Sunday11:00–22:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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