Seemor
Mc & Sons BoroughB+Worth Trying
160 Union St, London SE1 0LH
· Irish pub, Thai restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (1311 reviews)
Takeout · Outdoor seating
Lively Irish pub with standout Thai dishes and strong Guinness game; great vibes, occasional service noise and consistency hiccups.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Mc & Sons Borough delivers a lively and welcoming experience that competes well with the area's better neighborhood restaurants. Solid food quality in classic Thai staples paired with friendly, responsive service and fair pricing make it a reliable choice for casual dining. However, occasional consistency variations and crowding at peak times prevent it from reaching higher distinction—it's best enjoyed during quieter hours or for its genuine pub atmosphere rather than culinary ambition.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with Irish memorabilia, pints flowing, and fiddles on certain nights. Guests describe staff as friendly and quick, noting that even when dishes arrived a bit staggered, it came with an apology. One diner summed it up: "Fun pub energy, bold Thai flavors, and a pint that hits the spot." The cooking leans classic Thai with pub comfort rather than high-concept fusion. The culinary approach is elevated-traditional: khao soi with crispy noodles, punchy kra pow, and reliably tasty Pad Thai. It suits diners who want real flavor and good value over theatrics—think after-work bowls and weekend noodle cravings alongside a proper Guinness. Families can make this work with kid-friendly picks like mild Pad Thai, spring rolls, and Massumun. That said, it is a lively pub; noise and the outdoor smoking area can be challenging at peak times. There is no dedicated kids menu, so choose milder dishes and aim for quieter hours.
At a Glance
- Lively Irish pub vibe with genuine hospitality and live music
- Strong Thai staples (Pad Thai, khao soi, Chiang Mai chicken) at fair prices
- Noise and crowding at peak times can hinder conversation
- Occasional service lapses and rare kitchen inconsistency
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- irish_pub_with_thai_kitchen
- live_irish_music
- victorian_facade_and_snug
What People Love
- That the Thai food and Guinness are both strong
- The charming Irish decor and snug
- Quick, friendly service on most visits
- Live Irish music that lifts the mood
- Reasonable pricing for central London
Points of Concern
- Noise can be intense on busy nights, making conversation difficult
- A few reports of curt or inattentive service during rushes
- Occasional dish inconsistency (e.g., clumped noodles, bland broth)
- Review patterns show signs of normal variability; no manipulation signals detected
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£33-41 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Start with Chiang Mai Chicken or sweetcorn fritters; follow with Pad Thai or Green Curry if you like moderate spice; choose khao soi for something richer; finish with banana fritters if you crave a warm dessert.
Perfect For
- After-work pints with a satisfying Thai main
- Casual date night with live music energy
- Group catch-ups where vibe matters
- Travelers seeking a cozy Irish pub near South Bank
Location Insights
Area: Central London Southwark mix of offices, creative studios, and historic streets; popular after-work destination.
Safety: Generally safe with steady foot traffic; busy on weekdays and event nights.
Nearby: Close to Southwark and Borough stations; near The Cut, Waterloo, and cultural venues along the South Bank.
BanksideA vibrant riverside neighborhood known for its artistic scene, proximity to cultural landmarks like Tate Modern, and a mix of historic and contemporary architectural spaces that attract a dynamic dining and social crowd.
Union Street QuarterA transitional urban area featuring adaptive reuse spaces, innovative workspaces, and emerging culinary and design establishments that reflect London's contemporary urban regeneration.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–00:00
Saturday12:00–00:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Takeout, Outdoor seating
View full analysis on Seemor →