The Rose & Crown, Kentish Town, NW5

Official site of The Rose & Crown - www.roseandcrownkentishtown.com

Official site of The Rose & Crown - www.roseandcrownkentishtown.com

This was originally a Watney, Combe Reid pub of the same name. It was rebuilt before the war; spent a while as The Torriano (perhaps in remembrance of the original Torriano around the corner that is now flats), but has now creditably reverted to its original name. There were two handpumps on the counter, one clipped with Tiny Rebel Hank (£2.10 a half), and the other with a cider (Orchard Pig Hog Father). I tend to like Tiny Rebel beers, and this one was no exception, being a light and hoppy, yet full flavoured, summer ale. There were no menus when I dropped in on Wednesday lunchtime, and as far as I could see food was limited to cakes and/or tarts under a plastic container on the bar. They seem to major on “craft” beers here, with loads of them available from an array of keg fonts. I had an enjoyable chat with the barman about breweries and beer styles, and he kindly gave me a taster for something from Wiper and True Brewery. It was quite good as it happens. This pub – or perhaps more accurately a bar – is quite small and minimalist, occupying its original location in a row of terraced accommodation. There’s a bit of banquette seating, and a couple of tall tables/tall stools, and that’s about it, although there is a small “garden” area at the back as well as a bit of seating on the pavement at the front. I really enjoyed my short visit to this pub. I guess the chat with the friendly barman will have helped, but I would recommend this pub.