Lively Hoxton pub with trad Irish sessions and a rotating Thai pop-up kitchen; great pints and buzz, but security policies and cashless-only payments frustrate some guests.
Howl At The Moon delivers reliable neighborhood pub appeal with exceptional value (£5-5. 50 pints) and strong live Irish sessions that draw beyond the immediate area. Food quality shines with the Thai pop-up menu, though consistency suffers when roasts are offered, and recent security enforcement concerns create friction.
A neighborhood pub that feels warm and bustling, Howl At The Moon draws a lively crowd for pints, trad Irish sessions, and weekend energy. Guests praise the bar team as friendly and the music as a mood-maker, with one diner noting, "The session on Sunday made the whole afternoon." However, be aware of security rule enforcement around outside drinks that some found heavy-handed. The cooking sits between pub comfort and a Thai street-food pop-up, with crisp fried chicken, jackfruit curry, and savory chive bites that hit above typical bar fare. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with global touches: focused plates, bold flavors, and good value for money rather than high-wire gastronomy. Roasts, when offered, are less consistent, so come for pints and pop-up dishes rather than a destination carvery. Families may find early evenings workable, but this is primarily an adult-forward pub. Kids who like mild fried chicken or plain fries will be fine, yet spice levels and volume can be a stretch. No kids menu is evident, and the room can get loud on match days and during music sessions, so plan timing accordingly.
Area vibe: Creative East London district with a mix of long-time locals and newer residents; lively evenings and weekend markets.
Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked; some late-night incidents reported in reviews tied to crowd management.
What's nearby: Near Hoxton Street Market, galleries, and neighborhood bars; match-day and live-music crowds noted.