The Cheshire Cheese, Temple, WC2

Decent looking pub, but no ale of any note. Half of cider, I'm afraid.

Very small single-roomed pub, although I note att'd suggestions of a downstairs room (I didn't investigate, sorry). Very old appearance with leadlight windows and low-lit bar area (I walked into a stray barstool before I'd even had a drink!) contribute to an intimate feel even if the handful of punters ystdy were local office or legal staff. Decent soundtrack - Lola/Mack-theKnife stylee - although muted sky sports news was probably unnecessary. Despite the size of the bar, the 5 tables (max 16 covers) were all set for dining and notices displayed the daily 'cooked special' - a choice of 3 curries - Lal Mans, Coconut Dhania Murg, Aloo Gobi - with rice & nan plus salad or raita, £6.95. On leaving I noticed that the regular menu also comprised indian dishes. Pleased to find St Austell Tribute as an alternative to the usual suspects (Bombardier, Courage, IPA), and it was good. I imagine bar area could become quickly uncomfortable if busy, but not a bad place for a stop-off if on yr way to Edgar Wallace round the corner. Only open weekends for private functions.

A bit of a gem, really. Small, welcoming and old school, the bar boasts a fine collection of jugs and pots hanging from the beams; feels much older than it actually is. The beers were good (I had Bombardier, but they also had Tribute and Doombar on) and the lunch was good pub grub, freshly cooked and great value. I was told the upstairs room was available for functions.

Old leaded windows, some Victorian features and a nice internal ambience lift this little boozer above the average mark. A couple of ales on, OSH and Bombardier. My Bombardier was a little musty-tasting, unfortunately. There was also a muted TV on showing the cricket, which did seem a little out of place but I guess it draws the punters in, so why not? [edit - apparently there also is a bar billiards table!] As a pub, I actually prefer this to the Edgar Wallace over the way but the EW does far better beer. If you could mix the two you'd have the best pub in the area by a mile. So worth a quick stop as tick before heading to EW. I'll try this place again as I'd be quite a fan if the beer quality was good...