Seemor
The CrownAMust Try
86 Highgate High St, London N6 5HX
· Pub
· 4.7/5 Google (122 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
A revived Highgate pub with an upstairs dining room serving creative, chef-led British plates and standout Sunday roasts; excellent food and warm service with prices that reflect ambition more than pub basics.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
The Crown exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality anchored by chef-led roasts and seasonal small plates that elevate beyond typical pub fare. Strong service attentiveness and a thoughtfully designed upstairs dining room with open kitchen visibility create a compelling neighborhood destination. Minor Sunday service variability and gastropub-level pricing prevent a higher grade, but consistent execution and loyal following position this among the region's finest casual dining establishments.
Restaurant Summary
Upstairs at The Crown feels like a village secret that everyone is whispering about, with an open kitchen, cosy wood tones, and staff who keep things warm and welcoming. Diners rave about roasts that arrive perfectly pink with proper gravy, and one guest summed it up simply: best roast in ages. The downstairs bar remains lively and local, while the dining room upstairs sets a more relaxed pace with thoughtful service. The culinary approach leans contemporary and seasonal: creative plates that riff on British comfort—think prawns with fennel butter, yakitori touches, and flatbreads with smoked mozzarella—without tipping into theatrics. It is a chef-led gastropub where ingredients and balance shine, so expect flavors to be dialed in and roasts to be treated with care. This is ideal for those who enjoy elevated pub classics and a menu that changes with the calendar. Families are well served when the kids want something familiar: the cheeseburger and chips, flatbreads, and simple soups keep younger eaters happy, and high chairs appeared in use during Sunday service. Adventurous options like artichoke with ricotta or seafood starters suit curious teens, but true picky eaters may prefer the burger or bread-and-butter route. Overall it is kid-accommodating without being a kid-focused venue.
At a Glance
- Chef-led roasts and seasonal small plates exceed typical pub standards
- Cozy upstairs dining room with open kitchen and friendly, attentive service
- Sunday rush can stretch service speed and portion consistency for some roasts
- Pricing is gastropub level, not bargain pub fare
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- upstairs_open_kitchen_dining_room
- chef_led_gastropub_menu
- standout_sunday_roast_program
What People Love
- Roast beef cooked perfectly pink with proper gravy
- Inventive starters like prawns with fennel butter
- Welcoming staff and open-kitchen energy
- A neighborhood spot that feels like an upgrade
Points of Concern
- A few Sunday visits reported small chicken portions and tough potatoes during peak service
- Bar and festival pricing felt steep for some guests, including soft drinks and cider event timing
- Occasional slow drinks or coffee service on busy days, though issues were often resolved
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£42-£55 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Start with flatbread or prawns (£10-£16), choose a main like cheeseburger (£17) or lamb shoulder (£26), and finish with baked apple (£9-£12) for a balanced spend around £45 per person before drinks.
Perfect For
- A Sunday roast that feels special but still relaxed
- Date night in a cosy upstairs dining room
- Post-Heath walk comfort meal by the fire
- Small celebrations with quality-focused cooking
Location Insights
Area: Leafy village vibe on a historic high street catering to locals, families, and weekend walkers from Hampstead Heath.
Safety: Perceived as safe and well-kept with steady foot traffic; typical for Highgate Village.
Nearby: Near other classic pubs, cafes, and boutique shops; walkers often arrive from the Heath making it a post-walk destination.
HighgateHighgate is characterized by its historic charm, leafy streets, and a strong community feel. The dining scene includes a mix of upscale restaurants, traditional pubs, and cozy cafes, catering to residents who appreciate quality and a relaxed environment. It is known for being safe, accessible, and somewhat exclusive compared to other parts of North London.
Highgate VillageHighgate Village is the heart of the neighborhood, featuring quaint streets, boutique shops, and a concentration of restaurants and pubs that foster a friendly, community-oriented dining experience. It is a popular spot for leisurely meals and social gatherings in a picturesque setting.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–23:00
Tuesday12:00–23:00
Wednesday12:00–23:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–23:00
Saturday12:00–23:00
Sunday12:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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