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.
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.
One caveat: Service variability: several reports of brusque or rude bar staff at peak times