Bunch of Grapes, Leadenhall, EC3

Long narrow bar with plenty of wood paneling. Not a very inspiring real ale selection with the Summer Lightning being undrinkable although it was changed for Doom Bar which was OK if you like that sort of beer.

Confusingly "The Grapes" from one side, but "The Bunch of Grapes" on the other (and also on the pub sign). Once inside, you find a very bare wood-panelled bar, clearly designed for lunch-time and after work 'vertical drinking' and thus very few bar stools (and no seats). Upstairs dining room. Six handpumps, but two lots were doubled-up so the choice was GK IPA, Adnams, Youngs Ordinary and Pride (well kept, and reasonable value for the area at £3.00). OK for a quick pint, but not a place to linger.

I liked it in here as it was nice to step away from the hordes of people in the pubs in Leadenhall Market and have some space to enjoy a nice pint. There were two Pride pumps, Youngs Ordinary, Adnams and an unused pump along with some standard lagers. Like most London boozers it's not the biggest pub, but it does have a stand up and drink local feel which was nice to find in the centre of the financial district. The food seemed to be typical pub fare and I was reliably informed that there is an elegant function room located up the stairs with its own bar. They have a small TV that was showing Eggheads which was muted with subtitles and they also have a small plasma screen that was showing Sky Sports feed that was also muted. This is a no nonsense pub with polite staff and I would return if in the area.