Stylish West End cocktail-forward gastropub with standout Sunday roasts and creative small plates; lively vibe, good service, and prices that fit quality though portions and heat can vary.
Old Pal Bar and Kitchen delivers strong food quality anchored by celebrated Sunday roasts and well-executed cocktails, with genuinely attentive service that guides diners through both menu and bar program. However, inconsistent execution during peak times—particularly heat and beef preparation issues—prevents a higher grade, and the cozy but occasionally cramped dining space limits its standing among the area's premier gastropubs. It's a reliable neighborhood favorite with serious cocktail credentials, competitive with respected local establishments.
Old Pal feels like a West End spot where drinks lead the way and the kitchen keeps pace. Reviews paint a lively upstairs bar with music, a cozier dining room downstairs, and staff who are genuinely friendly. As one diner put it, the roast "smelled amazing and tasted even better," while others rave about the well-made cocktails that bookend the night. The culinary approach leans modern gastropub with global flourishes: think flat iron steak with fries next to lobster croquettes, ox cheek with bone marrow jus, and accents like gochujang hot honey, ponzu, and harissa. It suits diners who enjoy classic comforts with a twist and a serious bar program; a few reports mention heat inconsistency or fatty beef slices at peak times, but the general arc is flavor-forward and satisfying. Families can do well here earlier in the evening, thanks to mac and cheese, fries, and sliders alongside roasts; later hours skew bar-forward and louder. The menu shows some vegetarian and occasional vegan options, though adventurous sauces and spice notes mean picky eaters should scan for simple staples like steak and chips.
Area: Vibrant West End near Haymarket with a mix of commuters, office workers, and visitors; cocktail-forward venues and modern bistros common.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked corridor near tram and rail; typical urban vigilance advised at late hours.
Nearby: Close to Haymarket Station and tram stops, walkable to Dean Village and city centre; pre- and post-theatre or travel-friendly.