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The CandlemakerBWorth Trying

Name: The Candlemaker
Address: 136 Battersea High St, London SW11 3JR, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

136 Battersea High St, London SW11 3JR · Restaurant, Bar, Bar & grill · 4.6/5 Google (817 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Lively neighborhood pub for smoked meats, hearty roasts, and cocktails with occasional slow service and uneven kitchen consistency.

Why it gets a B for overall quality

The Candlemaker delivers solid neighborhood dining with standout roasts and beef ribs and genuinely warm, accommodating staff that anchor its appeal. However, inconsistent execution on wings and brisket during busy periods and slower bar service on peak nights prevent it from reaching higher territory. Strong value at lunch and a buzzing, comedy-friendly atmosphere make it worth a visit for barbecue and pub comfort, though not a citywide destination.

Restaurant Summary

A neighborhood spot with warm, buzzing energy, The Candlemaker blends pub comfort with smokehouse swagger. Reviews describe staff who are genuinely welcoming and a back dining room that feels like a living room. One diner summed it up: "The team kept the night flowing, and the beef rib stole the show." Expect lively evenings, especially when comedy nights are on. The culinary approach leans classic barbecue meets Sunday roast: familiar pub favorites dialed up with smoke and big portions rather than culinary theatrics. Beef ribs and roasts draw the biggest praise, while wings and brisket can run dry on hectic nights. Vegan options are better than average for a barbecue pub, with the vegan burger and even a vegan roast earning nods. Value is strongest at lunch and on First Table, though service can slow during deals. For families, this is a kid-comfortable menu: burgers, ribs, fries, and simple sides. The lunch burger at £10 is straightforward, and there are plant-based choices if that suits the table. Do note the room can get lively in the evenings and during shows, so earlier hours are calmer. No explicit kid menu is shown, but the food is approachable and portions are shareable.

At a Glance

Beef rib and Sunday roasts consistently impress
Friendly team with helpful whiskey guidance
Strong value at lunch and with First Table deals
Service and bar speed slow on busy nights
Inconsistent execution on wings/brisket temperature and moisture

What Sets It Apart

smoky_twist_on_sunday_roast
lively_comedy_nights
broad_whiskey_selection

What People Love

That comforting smoky roast with big Yorkshire and gravy
The welcoming staff who check in and offer suggestions
The generous sharing platters for groups
A whiskey list that rewards curiosity
Comedy nights that turn dinner into a fun evening

Points of Concern

Service can slow significantly during promo periods and busy Fridays; plan extra time
Occasional dryness or lukewarm plates on wings and brisket
Room can be loud near the bar or during events; choose seating accordingly
Review patterns show mild booster tendencies (short 5-star clusters, frequent staff name shout-outs) though overall authenticity remains solid

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£30-38 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Use the £10 lunch mains for a budget-friendly meal; add one side to keep total near £20-26
For a full experience, plan £30-38 for three courses, or £42-55 with drinks
Vegan diners have at least two clear lunch options (vegan burger, buffalo cauliflower)

Perfect For

A relaxed Sunday roast with friends
Casual date night with cocktails and comedy
Group sharing platters and beers
Locals looking for a friendly neighborhood pub

Location Insights

Area: Residential Battersea side street with a local pub scene; a mix of longtime residents and young professionals.

Safety: Generally safe and well-trafficked; standard London urban awareness applies.

Nearby: Close to Battersea High Street shops and other pubs; entertainment nights (comedy) draw visitors from nearby areas.

Battersea High StreetA dynamic urban neighborhood featuring a blend of traditional London architecture and contemporary dining and retail spaces. The area offers a diverse mix of independent restaurants, cafes, and local businesses with a community-focused atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday17:00–23:00 Tuesday17:00–23:00 Wednesday17:00–23:00 Thursday17:00–23:00 Friday17:00–00:00 Saturday12:00–00:00 Sunday12:00–23:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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