The Island Queen

A regal old gin palace afloat in a sea of Georgian terraces, The Island Queen welcomes those who venture off Angel’s well-worn shipping lanes in search of originality. They’ll get it in spades here. A mixed bunch of locals & arty types appreciates this slice of island life, with palm trees in pots out front, soaring ceilings & mirrors etched with tropical foliage surrounding the central bar. Equable staff man the pumps, which are many & varied (Sierra Nevada, Doom Bar, Aspall cider Paulaner, Leffe & Meantime), taking precedence, as in any proper pub, over a workmanlike wine list that covers the basics. There’s a short menu of sandwiches & a good value prix fixe from Monday to Friday (three courses for £9.95). At weekends the roasts rule the roost.