The Victoria - Bow - Pub Reviews

We ducked off Grove Road into The Victoria - Mile End’s rooftop‑herb haven where kilo‑mussel feasts, bespoke no‑menu cocktails and eight ever‑changing cask ales weave seaside freshness through a characterful Victorian shell.

Name: The Victoria

Location: 110 Grove Road, Mile End, London, E3 5TH

Phone: 020 8712 5125

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:30 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No dedicated parking, but street parking is available nearby.

• Darts & Pool Table: No.

• Live Sports: No.

Food on Offer:

The Victoria prides itself on a fresh, fish-led kitchen that offers seasonal, sustainable dishes from across the British Isles. The menu regularly features British tapas, hearty meat dishes, vegetarian options, and daily specials. Their renowned mussel club offers a kilo of mussels with various sauces, making it a highlight for seafood lovers.

Beers on Tap:

A rotating selection of eight cask ales is available, including local favourites like Bombardier and Young’s Special, alongside guest ales that change weekly. There is also a bespoke cocktail bar offering custom drinks crafted by a personal mixologist.

Price Range: ££ (Moderate)

Customer Service:

Feedback on service at The Victoria is consistently positive. Patrons appreciate the friendly and welcoming staff, who go out of their way to make guests feel at home. There is a noticeable focus on creating a relaxed, enjoyable experience, with several mentions of attentive service during events and meals​.

Events & Special Nights:

The Victoria hosts various themed events, including a Mussel Club on Wednesdays and festive gatherings like Christmas carol sing-alongs. The pub also offers a unique dining experience through its “Ssshh... Supper Club,” which includes private dining rooms and a hidden cocktail bar​

In-Depth Review:

Stepping into The Victoria feels like entering a well-kept secret in the heart of Mile End. With its eclectic mix of vintage décor, rustic charm, and modern touches, this pub strikes a perfect balance between the old and the new. The building itself is steeped in history, but its recent transformation under the Yummy Pub Co. has breathed fresh life into it, turning it into a community hub where locals and visitors alike can gather.

One of the standout features is the rooftop garden, where herbs and vegetables are grown for use in the kitchen. This commitment to fresh, local produce is evident in every dish, from the tapas-style small plates to the impressive selection of fresh seafood. The mussel club is a must-try if you’re visiting on a Wednesday – it’s a fun, social way to enjoy high-quality food at a reasonable price.

The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, attracting a diverse crowd. You’ll find young professionals enjoying after-work drinks, families gathered for a Sunday roast, and groups of friends catching up over cocktails. Speaking of drinks, the hidden cocktail bar is a real treat – it feels exclusive and intimate, with no menu to speak of, just a talented mixologist ready to craft something unique based on your preferences.

The pub is dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for pet owners. Accessibility is also thoughtfully considered, with disabled facilities and plenty of outdoor seating.

Overall, The Victoria stands out for its commitment to quality, community, and creativity. Whether you’re there for a quick pint, a leisurely meal, or a special event, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. While parking can be a challenge, the experience inside more than makes up for it. If there’s one thing they could improve, it might be the addition of more entertainment options like darts or live sports to cater to a broader audience.

Still, if you’re looking for a pub with character, great food, and a unique vibe, The Victoria is well worth a visit.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team