The Coach Maker (ex Conduit of Tybourne, ex-O'Conor Don), Marylebone  

When the people who ran the O'Conor Don on this spot shut up shop, they left a rather impressive act to follow. Unfortunately, the following incarnation as the Conduit of Tybourne, wasn't really up to the job and didn't last long - about a year - and yet again, this pub closed. Well we're happy to report once more the pub is open and, once again there's a change of name - welcome to the Coach Maker. Maybe our memories are a little hazy, but the new place doesn't look substantially different from the old - it's a smart modern, comfortable interior, with squashy settees in one corner and wooden tables and chairs. A dark wood corner bar dominates the room and hosts four hand pumps serving some interesting real ales and a good few other taps with lagers, continental beers etc. There's a good wine list and an extensive modern gastro menu with quite a few veggie options, on the large blackboard. However, despite the interesting menu, nobody appeared to be eating - the clientele (mostly couples) just sitting quietly with glasses of wine and pints. We did notice that, whilst the main courses were typically-priced for the area, the starters and puddings seemed to be rather expensive. (And the cheese board must have been something very special for the price). The service wasn't exactly speedy, but the bar people were polite and friendly, but it's early days for the Coach Maker and some things can be put down to teething troubles. As for the food, maybe people just weren't hungry that evening, or perhaps they were waiting for someone else to make the first move to sample the food, but we suspect price had something to do with it. A tentative three pints then, for the Coach Maker - for drink range, comfort, and effort (and bravery in these dark economic times). We will be back to see how it gets on.

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