Phoenix, NW1

Situated at the Mornington Crescent end of Camden High Street, this place is away from more touristy Market and Lock area and is frequented more by shoppers, office workers and early arrivals for Koko a few doors down although in my experience, the place is generally quite empty regardless of who is around. Since my previous visit the pub has been shorn of its “Arms” and is now simply called the Cobden although it still remains a bit of a contrived plastic place that can be pretty soulless although, to be fair, there isn’t anything that is particularly unappealing or offputting about the place. The interior consists of the main bar with typical furnishings made slightly wine bar’ish with potted plants and nightlights on the tables. A couple of flat screens in the main bar offer the suual run of sporting events although any commentary required will compete with the background piped music. To the rear are a couple of raised sections with a more intimate but equally bland feel. Whilst it doesn’t really portray itself as an Irish bar, various Guinness themed pictures and illuminated signs seem to be prominent. A large mirrored pillar in the centre of the main bar seems to be used more for noticeboard purposes with posters detailing the upcoming sporting events and listing the latest seasonal pool from which the guest beers are drawn. I find the latter slightly pretentious since this is hardly a pub with a serious ale agenda with just 2 pumps containing Doom Bar and Ruddles County on my most recent visit. It is at least an improvement on my only previous trip when the choice and quality was far inferior to what it is now. Prices are a bit steep with the Doom Bar clocking up £3.30 although the Thai food seemed to be pretty reasonable with a good selection of dishes at around £5-7. Overall it’s a bit dim and lacking any character but is a relatively safe and harmless choice away from the general Camden vibe and there are certainly far worse places around the neighbourhood. A couple of extra hand pumps and an increased choice of ales would certainly raise it a notch.

This is a great little pub with friendly staff and simple pub food. It is easy to get comfortable and the 2 plasma screens are a real bonus. Pride was the only real ale on along with Guinness, Guinness Extra Cold and the usual suspect lagers. The music is not to imposing and the locals seemed friendly enough. There are 3 very small tables outside on the high street for the smokers, but they are not very comfortable with people constantly walking past. The next time I'm in Camden I will make an effort to visit here again.