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The North StarA-Worth Trying

Name: The North Star
Address: 24 Browning Rd, Bushwood, London E11 3AR, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.6

24 Browning Rd, Bushwood, London E11 3AR · Pub · 4.6/5 Google (754 reviews)

Reservations · Outdoor seating

Charming backstreet pub with standout Thai food, solid pizzas, and well-kept ales; friendly vibe overall but firm kid curfew and occasional brusque service moments to note.

Why it gets an A- for overall quality

The North Star delivers exceptional Thai curries and stone-baked pizzas with strong kitchen standards, anchored by superb cask ale selection and a charming village-like setting that regulars love. However, inconsistent service tone—ranging from warm to brusque, particularly around the 7pm kid curfew—and modest occasional quality variation prevent grade A territory. A reliable neighborhood favorite with genuine character, though not without operational friction.

Restaurant Summary

Slip down this quiet Bushwood lane and you step into a pub that feels like a little village in the city: warm and buzzing, with two gardens, polished cask ale, and a friendly local crowd. One regular summed it up: "the pub you wish was your local," while others praise the well-kept beer and the comfy, nostalgic room. Service is generally upbeat, though reminders about house rules can be firm, especially around the kid curfew. The cooking leans classic rather than showy: a proper Thai kitchen turning out fragrant green curry, massaman, and crisp fish cakes, plus a garden shack serving stone-baked pizzas. The culinary approach reads elevated traditional: familiar Thai staples done with care, not theatrics. It suits diners who value flavor and reliability over surprise, alongside a serious beer lineup. Families will find clear boundaries: children are welcome until 7pm and staff enforce it. Menu-wise, kids might enjoy spring rolls, satay, milder yellow curry with rice, or a simple pizza. Several reviews note the tone can feel strict near curfew, so plan earlier visits if bringing little ones; after 7pm the pub skews to adult-friendly social time.

At a Glance

Excellent Thai curries and reliable pizzas with gluten-free option
Superb cask and craft beer quality with a cozy village pub vibe
Strict 7pm kid curfew with tone that some find brusque
Occasional reports of rude service contrasted with many friendly interactions
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

thai_kitchen_inside_pub
garden_pizza_shack
award_winning_cask_ale_reputation

What People Love

That hidden-village setting off the main road
Thai dishes that taste fresh and vibrant
A pizza shack that holds its own
Cask ales poured with care
A regulars-friendly community vibe

Points of Concern

Kid curfew at 7pm is strictly enforced; families may feel rushed near cutoff
A minority report brusque or rude encounters with specific staff members
Garden space can feel snug at busy times
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£28-£40 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Pair a green curry (£11.50-£13) with steamed jasmine rice (£3) for a balanced meal
Share Thai fish cakes (£7.50) and squid (£8.50) to start before a Massaman (£14)
Gluten-free diners: opt for the GF pizza base from the garden shack

Perfect For

Low-key evening with great beer and a curry
Neighborhood meet-ups in a cozy, authentic pub
Casual date night in the garden
Solo pint and a quick Thai meal at the bar

Location Insights

Area: Leafy residential pocket off Leytonstone High Road with a village-like feel; relaxed local crowd and community pub culture.

Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked by locals; standard East London urban environment with good footfall.

Nearby: Near Green Man roundabout; mix of homes, small shops, and other pubs; draws beer enthusiasts and neighborhood regulars.

LeytonstoneA residential area with a growing reputation for diverse dining options and community-oriented atmosphere, blending traditional East London character with modern urban development

BushwoodA quiet, primarily residential sub-area known for its tree-lined streets and community-focused environment

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday14:00–23:00 Wednesday14:00–23:00 Thursday14:00–23:00 Friday14:00–23:00 Saturday13:00–23:00 Sunday13:00–22:30

Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating

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