Three Crowns, Stoke Newington  

After a long spell as a series of significantly unappealing bars, it was certainly good news when this poor old Victorian pub was given a new lease of life by the people behind a number of nearby pubs, including the Birdcage (who, if they're not careful, will be in danger of becoming the Starbucks of the N16 pub scene). They've returned to its original name and brought it definitively back into 'pub' territory, although it's aims are distinctly upmarket - loungey sofas, candlelight and gastroesque food are all present and correct, unfortunately with prices simply too high. Compared to others in the chain, its also less good; the restaurant section is pretty unappealing, as it overlooks a major traffic junction and elsewhere suffers from almost too many armchairs. Nonetheless, our opinions appear to be in a minority as its usually busy, attracting 20 and 30 something Stokey residents like moths to a light bulb, often accompanied by prams and toddlers. Still, there're a couple of good ales on tap and service is exemplary. Overall its fine here, but we prefer other places in the area; its almost - but not quite - the three pint pub we we're hoping for.

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