The Pembroke (Bar)

Idyllically set behind the wild banks of Camden Lock, the Pembroke Castle is a good place to catch your breath after a day of dodging the dodgy in the market, or scaling the great hill of Primrose. With large picture windows looking out onto Gloucester Avenue, the Pembroke sparkles at night and glows in the summer with a massive and well situated patio.

Inside, this spacious Victorian building has been done up with aubergine walls, large white columns and a worn but tended-to hard wood floor. When we arrive, the crowd is mellow on a Friday evening – quite distinct from the madness of the city or west end – with 30-40 year old punters enjoying bites and pints as Oasis quietly croons in the background. We order our food at the bar, and the staff keenly clear our table of any empties or ashtrays while we wait.

The menu features a choice of small plates and mains typical to today’s gastro pub. However, upon the arrival of our order, we are pleasantly surprised with the elegantly presented and fresh fare. I have the Teriyaki Tuna Steak, which is robust in flavour and placed delicately on a bed of rocket and red onions. A side dish of Sweet Potato Wedges is a great accompaniment - particularly when smothered with the tasty aioli. My friend’s Salmon Fillet Burger is lovely and flaky and the Pot Roasted Chicken is also quite delectable with a creamy white wine and tarragon sauce, white vegetables and crusty bread to boot.

The bar offers a good selection of wines and beers and prices are average. The second floor houses an elegant function room, with flat screen tellys and a private bar - the space is ideal for corporate gatherings and nicer events, it’s also non smoking. Available everyday but Sunday (as it’s filled to the brim with happy customers scarfing down the Pembroke’s popular roasts), discounts are available to larger groups and prices vary depending on the day of the week....read more