Bald Faced Stag, East Finchley

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(3 reviews)

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FancyaPint?'s review...

This grand looking pub, whose potential had been squandered for years, has been under the ownership of the Real Pubs group for a couple of years now. As such, there is an ongoing battle between the nearby Old White Lion to lure the young gastro-hungry East Finchley residents. On repeated visits, we'd have to say it's a tie between the more upmarket challenger and the defending champion. Inside it's tastefully decorated, with comfortable furnishings and a separate restaurant - anyone familiar with others in the chain will know what to expect, including the propensity for the bar to be considerably more busy than the restaurant. Food is heavily featured but is also pretty pricey - generally �10-�17 for a main. Saying that, with a couple of good ales on tap and a pretty (if rather noisy) beer garden, it's very easy to spend a chilled few hours here. Overall, it's perfectly nice, but it would've been nice to see a deviation from the chain's theme; it might be proving quite successful, but it's also somewhat predictable.

Reviewed by redcat 01 Apr 2011 Helpful? yes/no

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torpor
Reviews (27)

15 Jul 2012

Decent revamp of a historic old pub that has had mixed fortunes over the years. Similar in concept the nearby Olde White Lion but essentially superior in that the Real Ale is always superb (try the Wandle) and the staff are unfailingly pleasant. The dining area is also lovely with excellent waiter service.

If gastropubs are your thing, this is the best in the area.

The Strange Torpor.

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15 Sep 2011

The selection of real ales in generally interesting, if a little small (2-3, on average). Food is of restaurant standard, but seriously overpriced. The beer garden overlooks the High Road, so is good for people-watching as well as socialising, whilst the arrangement of the seating in front of the bar is somewhat unhelpful.