Seemor

Troy BarB-Worth Trying

Name: Troy Bar
Address: 10 Hoxton St, London N1 6NG, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.4

10 Hoxton St, London N1 6NG · Caribbean restaurant, Live music bar, Takeout Restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (969 reviews)

Takeout

A beloved Hoxton live-music den serving budget-friendly Caribbean plates and hosting high-talent jam nights, but expect cash cover charges, late starts, and inconsistent door policies.

Why it gets a B- for overall quality

Troy Bar delivers authentic Caribbean comfort food at exceptional value with a genuinely beloved live-music scene that draws loyal regulars and travelers alike. Strong food quality in jerk chicken and curries is undermined by inconsistent execution—particularly late-night delays and weekend availability gaps—while service variance between warm bar staff and inconsistent door management prevents higher marks. The intimate neighborhood venue appeal and strong destination factor for music nights are genuine strengths, but dated facilities and operational friction keep this from grade A territory.

Restaurant Summary

Nights at Troy Bar feel intimate and electric when the band hits and the room leans in. Diners describe a neighborhood staple where the vibe swings from laid-back to full-on jam, with lines at the door and cash collected for cover. One guest summed it up: "Tiny room, big heart, and a crowd that came for the music." Expect old-school charm alongside dated facilities and a door policy that can feel hit or miss. The cooking is classic Caribbean comfort: jerk chicken, curries, and rice and peas at true budget prices. The culinary approach leans traditional rather than flashy (innovation level 3.8): simple, hearty plates that taste right for a pre-show bite or a quick takeaway lunch. Portions win fans, especially at £7.50 a plate, though late-night service can run behind and weekend food availability varies. Families should weigh timing and setting. Early takeaway or a quiet weeknight might suit adventurous kids who enjoy rice, chicken, and plantain, but late jam sessions bring a more adult, bar-forward scene. There is no noted kids menu, and with cash cover charges and loud shows, this is better for music-loving teens than small children.

At a Glance

Exceptional live-music talent with beloved jam nights
Genuine budget pricing on classic Caribbean mains (£7.50)
Cash-only cover and inconsistent communication at the door
Late starts and variable food availability on weekends
Facilities and toilets feel dated

What Sets It Apart

live_open_mic_culture
budget_caribbean_plates
intimate_music_room

What People Love

The buzz when the band locks in
Hearty jerk and curry plates for very little money
The community feel on open mic nights
That hidden-gem, old-school venue character

Points of Concern

Door and security interactions can be brusque or inconsistent; multiple reports mention uncomfortable exchanges
Music start times may slide; some nights go on late or swap band for DJ without clear notice
Weekend food service may be limited or unavailable despite expectations
Review patterns show variable experiences with facilities and cleanliness
Review patterns show signs of potential hidden costs (cash cover charge, limited card use at door) which may surprise first-time visitors

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleHybrid Average Cost£7.50-£12 per person ReservationsNot required

What to Order

Start with Jerk Chicken or Curry Chicken plus rice and peas for a satisfying meal under £10
Vegetarian Dish with curry or okra sauce offers a solid non-meat option

Perfect For

Catching top-tier local musicians in a tiny room
A cheap, flavorful Caribbean lunch near Old Street
A casual night with friends who love open mics
Solo music fans grabbing a bar seat and a plate

Location Insights

Area: Creative, nightlife-heavy zone with bars and venues; strong music scene and late-night energy.

Safety: Generally busy and well-trafficked at night though some venues can feel rowdy; mixed late-night behavior typical for the area.

Nearby: Near Old Street and Shoreditch High Street hubs; surrounded by bars, small venues, and casual eateries.

ShoreditchA dynamic and eclectic neighborhood known for its street art, innovative dining scene, trendy bars, and cutting-edge design studios. The area blends industrial heritage with contemporary urban lifestyle.

HoxtonA compact, edgy sub-district within Shoreditch characterized by converted warehouses, contemporary art galleries, and experimental restaurants.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–19:30 Tuesday12:00–00:30 Wednesday12:00–00:30 Thursday12:00–01:00 Friday12:00–03:00 Saturday20:00–03:00 Sunday

Available: Takeout

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