The Corner Store, Covent Garden, WC2

This place is directed at a younger crowd so unfortunately the powers that be have stocked up on standard and premium lagers and decided that there is no need for any real ale. I opted for a pint of Guinness which was decidedly iffy, which may be down to the barman changing the barrel half way through my pint or maybe just bad cellarmanship. The pub wasn't that busy, but it was still difficult to get comfortable and we ended up plotting on the edge of one of the two large reserved tables by the door. The party that had booked them was very friendly and thankfully had no problems with us being perched there for half an hour. There are a couple of old TVs up on the walls, but I'm not sure what they are for as I didn't spot any signs advertising any upcoming sporting events. The background music wasn't too loud and obtrusive, although I would have opted for a different selection of songs. The toilets are downstairs where a function room is also located, which was hosting a stand-up comedy night later in the evening, but we left before it had begun. I found the staff here to be very friendly and I would give this place enough chance, if only to see if the Guinness had improved.