King's Arms (ex McGoverns), Kilburn  

The closure of McGoverns further solidifies the fact that that the trendy, smartened-up pubs which have been replacing Kilburn's Irish pubs for the last few years are now significantly in the majority. The King's Arms, however, is following an apparently resurgent trend in American style bars and describes itself as a 'dive bar and music joint'. Associated with the excellent Luminaire gig venue above, much of the décor which graced McGoverns is still present, including the branded glass behind the bar and a lovably tacky mirror etched with a gypsy caravan. Otherwise, the lighting is now dark and moody, while the wooden panels and parquet flooring add to the atmosphere. You don't come here for flooring, though. The jukebox, selected by Ace Records and Rough Trade, lives up to expectations with plenty of obscure Rhythm and Blues, Rock 'n' Roll and other assorted classic from the 50s to the 70s; its a fantastic voyage around some superb music, helped by the aficionados present who had chosen well. Add live music on Fridays and a late licence 'till 2am and this is a cracking place worthy of a trip to NW6.

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