The Argyll Arms - Soho - Pub Reviews

Name: The Argyll Arms

Location: 18 Argyll Street, London W1F 7TP

Phone: 020 7734 6117

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM

• Sunday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0/5.0)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: No

Food on Offer: The Argyll Arms presents a quintessential British pub menu, featuring classics such as fish and chips, lamb shank shepherd's pie, and beef and ale pie. Dessert options include traditional favourites like blackberry & apple crumble with custard. The pub also caters to vegetarian and gluten-free preferences, ensuring a diverse selection for all patrons.

Beers on Tap: As a Nicholson's establishment, The Argyll Arms offers a curated selection of cask ales, including both popular and local brews. While the specific lineup may vary, patrons can expect a range of well-maintained ales that reflect the pub's commitment to quality.

Price Range: ££ (Moderate)

• Main courses: £10 – £15

• Desserts: £5 – £7

• Pints: £5 – £6

Customer Service: Feedback on customer service at The Argyll Arms is generally positive, with patrons appreciating the friendly and attentive staff. Specific compliments highlight the efficiency of service during busy periods and the staff's knowledge of the menu and beer selections. However, occasional reviews mention delays during peak times, suggesting room for improvement in managing high customer volumes.

Events & Special Nights: The Argyll Arms does not prominently feature regular events or themed nights. Its appeal lies in its historic ambiance and traditional pub experience, attracting patrons seeking a classic British pub atmosphere.

In-Depth Review:

Stepping into The Argyll Arms is akin to a journey back in time, offering a serene retreat from the bustling energy of Oxford Street. Established in 1868 and later refurbished around 1895 by architect Robert Sawyer, this Grade II* listed pub is celebrated for its exceptional late Victorian interior. The establishment boasts original mahogany panelling, intricately etched glass partitions, and mirrored walls, all of which contribute to its inclusion in CAMRA's National Inventory of Historic Pub Interiors.

Operated by Nicholson's, The Argyll Arms upholds a tradition of serving quality cask ales and classic British fare. The menu features enduring favourites such as fish and chips, lamb shank shepherd's pie, and beef and ale pie, complemented by desserts like blackberry & apple crumble with custard. The pub accommodates diverse dietary preferences, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options to ensure an inclusive dining experience.

The pub's interior is a testament to Victorian design, featuring three snugs separated by wood and etched glass partitions, a magnificent saloon at the rear, and a restaurant upstairs. Notably, there is a remarkable decorated Bass mirror and an impressive bar back, adjacent to which is a rare survivor—a manager's office with etched glazing.

The Argyll Arms attracts a diverse clientele, including tourists drawn to its historical significance, local workers seeking a traditional pub experience, and theatre-goers attending performances at the nearby London Palladium. The atmosphere is typically lively, especially during evenings and weekends, yet the layout allows for intimate conversations within its cozy snugs.

While the pub does not offer parking facilities, its prime location near Oxford Circus tube station ensures easy accessibility via public transport. The absence of live sports broadcasts and gaming facilities like darts or pool tables underscores its focus on providing a traditional pub environment. The establishment does not feature regular events or themed nights, instead relying on its historic charm and quality offerings to attract patrons.

In terms of pricing, The Argyll Arms positions itself within a moderate range, with main courses priced between £10 and £15, desserts between £5 and £7, and pints averaging £5 to £6. This pricing reflects the central London location and the quality of both food and drink.

Customer service is generally praised, with staff described as friendly and attentive. However, during peak times, there have been occasional mentions of slower service, indicating an area for potential improvement.

In summary, The Argyll Arms offers a quintessential British pub experience, steeped in history and architectural splendour. Its commitment to preserving Victorian-era design, combined with a solid menu of traditional dishes and cask ales, makes it a noteworthy destination for those seeking an authentic pub atmosphere in the heart of London. While it could benefit from enhancements in service efficiency during busy periods, its historic charm and quality offerings continue to delight both locals and visitors alike.