Medcalf, Clerkenwell  

Located in what was formerly a butcher's shop, and retaining the name and facade of its former self, Medcalf is for most of the week more of a destination for its food than the beverages on offer. With a generous selection of bottled lagers and Paulaner on tap, in addition to a good house Rioja (remember not to mix your drinks folks), it does still attract the occasional drinker and has quite a convivial atmosphere. This all changes on a Friday night when the chefs get to put their feet up and DJ's are brought in, allowing it to come into its own as a bar. If it all gets too much inside there are a few tables out front on Exmouth Market and a bijou garden at the rear, while a small side room has the benefit of not being next to the principal thoroughfare - a slight problem in the long, thin main section. The food menu changes regularly, and while it isn't the cheapest, you certainly get what you pay for.

reviewed:
9/8/2007

pub features:(click on an icon to see an explanation)

areas can be reserved

seats at front and tiny garden

yes

dj's on Friday night

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