Lively Old Street gastropub with standout pizzas, friendly staff, and a lovely garden; service is generally quick though occasional waits and small inconsistencies pop up.
Royal Star delivers solid food quality anchored by crisp pizzas and reliable pub classics, paired with genuinely friendly and attentive service that keeps regulars returning. The attractive back garden and fair pricing elevate the neighborhood experience, though occasional consistency dips and modest destination appeal prevent grade A territory. A dependable gastropub that executes its concept well without pretension.
A neighborhood pub that feels both warm and bustling, Royal Star draws after-work crowds for cold pints and pizzas that come out fast. Staff get frequent shout-outs for being friendly and on the ball, and the back garden is a bit of a hidden gem when the weather plays nice. "We came for a quick bite and ended up lingering," sums up the vibe from many diners. The cooking leans classic gastropub with pizza, burgers, pies, and fish and chips—solid, satisfying, and not trying to reinvent the wheel. The culinary approach is elevated traditional rather than experimental: reliable pizzas with generous toppings, pub mains that mostly deliver, and good value for the area. Families do fine here thanks to pizza, tenders, and burgers that kids will actually eat, plus the outdoor garden for a little extra wiggle room. There is a gluten free pizza option called out in reviews, but vegan choices are less clear, so check with staff if that matters.
Area vibe: Bustling tech-and-media corridor near Old Street, popular with office crowds and after-work meetups.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked urban environment with strong evening footfall.
What's nearby: Close to Old Street Station, offices, hotels, and nightlife; outdoor garden provides a quieter respite from City Road.
Come casual, use public transport, and expect drink delays during busy periods
Warm and bustling after work, with a friendly team and a notable back garden