A characterful, tucked-away City pub with notably good Guinness, friendly atmosphere and food, though busy periods can bring slow service and the drink range is not especially broad.
The Rising Sun delivers solid food quality and strong historic charm near St Paul's, with friendly service and reliable execution across visits. Inconsistent food reporting and occasional service slowdowns during busy periods prevent a higher grade, though the pub's character and value proposition keep it a dependable neighborhood choice.
The Rising Sun is a compact, character-rich City pub tucked into Carter Lane, a short walk from St Paul's. Reviews repeatedly evoke a proper old London boozer: painted windows, historic artwork, a horseshoe-style bar and a lively after-work crowd without the full tourist crush. One recurring impression is of “a hidden traditional pub with a properly poured Guinness,” though the main bar is small and the pavement-side space can feel exposed. The food is supporting cast rather than the headline act, but the evidence is encouraging: diners praise generous portions, a well-cooked flat iron steak, toasties and an older burger-and-fries deal. Drinks are the real draw, especially Guinness and Wainwrights Gold. Service is warmly praised by many, yet several reviewers report serious slowness or one-off rudeness when the pub is busy, so patience is part of the package. Families should check the age policy before arriving. One reviewer says they were asked to leave after eating with a 16-year-old, while the pub’s atmosphere and food references otherwise suit casual adult dining more naturally than a family meal. For children, the burger, fries and toasties sound approachable, but a current kids’ menu and reliable under-18 access are not established.
Area vibe: Dense financial district known for historic landmarks and corporate offices.
Safety: Generally safe during business hours; quieter in evenings with fewer pedestrians after work.
What's nearby: Near St. Paul's Cathedral, City offices, museums, and short walk to Blackfriars and Fleet Street dining corridors.
The flat iron steak, burger and fries, and toasties are the clearest food picks, while Guinness is the drink to prioritize.
Expect a small, lively pub with potentially slow service and an age policy worth checking before you bring under-18s.
Historic details and a lively after-work crowd give this small pub genuine character, though the compact bar can feel crowded.