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The BlackfriarAMust Try

Name: The Blackfriar
Address: 174 Queen Victoria St, Greater, London EC4V 4EG, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.5

174 Queen Victoria St, Greater, London EC4V 4EG · Pub · 4.5/5 Google (6805 reviews)

Reservations

Historic London pub with standout pies and fish and chips in a spectacular Art Nouveau setting; great atmosphere and food, but service can be inconsistent and it gets very busy.

Why it gets an A for overall quality

The Blackfriar stands among London's finest pub dining destinations, anchored by exceptional food quality—particularly its celebrated pies and reliably crisp fish and chips—and a spectacular Art Nouveau interior that justifies a pilgrimage. Service inconsistency during peak hours and occasional operational friction prevent grade A+ territory, but the restaurant's historic significance, loyal following, and consistent comfort-food execution deliver grade A-level performance that rewards both casual visits and deliberate trips.

Restaurant Summary

Step inside a City landmark where carved friars, mosaics, and copperwork make the room feel warm and bustling. Reviews rave about the setting—"like a cathedral for drinking"—and many praise friendly, prompt service even when it is packed. Expect a lively, after-work crowd and tourists soaking in the historic interior. The cooking leans classic British pub fare done well: flaky-topped pies, crisp-battered fish and chips, buttery mash, and a few veggie and vegan options. It is comfort-first cooking rather than cheffy theatrics, with portions that satisfy and prices that fit central London. If you come for the pies or fish, you are in the sweet spot; for cocktails and ales, the bar keeps things straightforward and familiar. Families will find plenty kids actually eat—fish and chips, sausage and mash, pies, even gooey Camembert to share. That said, the bar can be very crowded and noisy at peak times, so book the dining room for a calmer meal. There is no kids-specific menu listed, but the comfort-food lineup suits most ages.

At a Glance

Spectacular Art Nouveau interior worth the trip
Excellent pies and reliably crisp fish and chips
Service can be brusque or disorganized during rushes
Bar gets crowded and loud; seating tight without booking
Central London drinks pricing can feel steep to some

What Sets It Apart

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What People Love

The jaw-dropping historic decor
Flaky, rich pies that hit the spot
Crisp, fresh fish and chips
A lively, buzzing pub atmosphere

Points of Concern

Service variability: several reports of brusque or rude bar staff at peak times
Crowding and noise in bar area; reservations advised for dining room
Some find drink prices high even by central London standards
Review patterns show a polarized split on service experience which may not reflect every visit

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£36-£52 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For vegans: Mushroom, red wine & tarragon suet pie (VE) or Nourish Bowl (VE)
For shareable starters: Oven-baked Camembert for two
For a splurge: 8oz sirloin steak (£27)

Perfect For

Classic British pub meal before a Thames stroll
Showing visitors a historic London interior
After-work drinks with hearty comfort food
Tourists staying near Blackfriars station

Location Insights

Area: Central London riverside-adjacent business district with heavy commuter and tourist flow; after-work crowd and visitors mix.

Safety: Generally safe, busy streets and good lighting; occasional crowding near station and bridge.

Nearby: Near Blackfriars station, Thames path, City offices, and hotels like Hyatt Regency Blackfriars.

Queen Victoria Street areaThis area features a mix of modern office buildings and historic architecture, with a dining scene catering mostly to business lunches, after-work drinks, and upscale casual dining. The atmosphere is professional and fast-paced during weekdays, quieter in the evenings and weekends.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–23:00 Tuesday11:00–23:00 Wednesday11:00–23:30 Thursday11:00–23:30 Friday11:00–23:30 Saturday11:00–23:00 Sunday12:00–22:30

Available: Reservations

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