Victoria Stakes, N10

Quite an attractive food-led pub, although the basic wooden benches out front detract from the external appearance a bit. Very busy when I called by, with a clientele to match the gastro-pub furniture and decor. Separate dining room for those seeking a Sunday roast. Garden advertised (but not visited). Three of four handpumps in service, offering Tribute, Purity Mad Goose and Sambrooks Wandle (£3.90).

Randomness Guide to London - Victoria Stakes entry

Randomness Guide to London - Victoria Stakes entry

Official site of the Victoria Stakes, contains menu and beer list - www.victoriastakes.co.uk

Official site of the Victoria Stakes, contains menu and beer list - www.victoriastakes.co.uk

I was in here last Friday afternoon and although it was dead I could imagine it being very good with the right crowd and less of the depressing blues music. The beer garden was shut, but hopefully it is now open with all this bright sunshine we've been having this week. I saw signs for a restaurant upstairs and I thought that the downstairs seating was plentiful and well laid out with a sunken part by the windows. You can spot the gates to Alexandra Palace through a sea of cars and traffic lights. Normal lagers plus some premium on offer alongside Addlestones, Wessex Red and Whippet of Oz. This is not a bad pub and the walk down the hill from Muswell Hill is nice, but I'm not sure it is worth the walk home again.