The Griffin, Shoreditch, EC2

A good sized pub located just off Shoreditch High Street, it was pretty much full to capacity on our recent Friday evening visit and really very noisy, not helped by the harsh acoustics. We just managed to grab a small table by the door as someone was leaving, but if it weren’t for that it would have been quite an uncomfortable drinking experience. It’s all one large, open plan room, with cream painted wood panelling on the ceiling, old wooden boards on the floor and very dark paintwork on the walls. Large windows all up one side but make for a light and airy feel in daylight hours. To the right behind the large bar counter was some green paintwork along with some attractive gold relief in the cornicework at the top, marble style pillars and a number of etched brewery mirrors together with a large selection of beer mats. I did spot a projector on the ceiling, although no sign of a screen, so presumably major sporting events are shown. The solitary beer on tap was Rebellion IPA whilst a second pump appears unused. Other reviewers have mentioned a large craft selection, although I did not spot this. The solitary cider meanwhile was Orchard Thieves.

A very attractive external appearance,with Charrington's brown glazed tiles and Meaux branded etched glass windows,the many doors to this street corner pub hint at an original multi room interior which must have been opened out at some stage.There are cast iron pillars,fine cornising above the long bar with an interesting mirrored back,and more etched glass. The floor is wooden throughout and away from the bar much wood panelling remains while all external doors are traditional.Pew seating ,brittania tables,small and bar stools make up the furniture,the overall effect is pleasing. The handpumps are unused ,this is a keg only establishment but certainly in the craft style.17 options on my trip,some national brands,sparkling cider,German lagers but also output from respected brewers such as Wylam,Thornbridge,Magic Rock and Brew York.My Burning Sky Saison Ete was very good,but keg pricing is high here with pint pricing between £5.60 to £7.80.Cocktails and wines were also on the drinks menu and there was no sign of food.Cool muzak. I enjoyed my visit ,the very decent range of craft keg marks this pub out in the area,so it's worth a visit.

Official site of The Griffin - the-griffin.com

Official site of The Griffin - the-griffin.com