Duke of Argyll, Soho, W1

The interior is very well done though obviously far from original. No cask but all the usual Sams keg beers. It is what it is and I felt quite comfortable sat here for half an hour.

A late 19th century rebuild, this has clearly been subject to a modern/Victorian makeover by Sam Smith’s and probably post-2013, judging by an earlier review and on CAMRA’s list of pubs of Outstanding Conversions and Restorations (me neither). The wood is all modern, but the details are terrifically ornate, with etched and cut-glass infill panels, to match the etched and cut-glass windows. The wallpaper is rather Puginesque, burgundy with gold details and period-style Victorian glass and brass lighting. Customers would be hard to categorise, as the place was virtually empty, when other pubs were doing a strong trade. Sadly, no alternatives to OBB and not even on cask either, tasting like very cold tea and at £2.35 a half too. I’m not a massive fan of brand-new pubs, Sam Smith’s beer (especially keg only), so I don’t envisage a return visit.

Refurbished in 2017 to return it a bit closer to the original plans of 1886, this is a multi-faceted Sam Smith pub with a number of drinking areas, separated off by some wood and glass panel entrances. Off right as you enter are some booths and off left is a drinking section and a separate room behind. Went for a Pure Brewed Lager, which was decent. No cask OBB. Ate in the relaxed lounge upstairs and the burger, whilst hardly an award winner in the offing, was welcome sustenance. A pretty good Sams but a cask OBB would gain it more favour.