This gets 3 stars because of its location, size and that you can book tables, also good for meeting with a group. It doesnt get more and possibly could get less because of the consistency in service there being mediocre. I dont post reviews sometimes because I want to go back and see if the service is consistently under par. Same with going and having a fantastic time but I'll often give 4 and a 5 when I return and find it just as or better.
That said, I walked in and there were literally a handful of guests, just a few minutes after opening. I walked around to see if my friend had arrived, and to pick out a table. I walked up to the bar and one man stood there who couldn't decide what he wanted and was waiting for his lady friend to come back from the bathroom. We stood next to each other. The barkeep got tired of waiting and said to the guy, when you're ready...then another man walked in and up to the bar. The barkeep walked down the length of the bar away from us and asked the other guy what he wanted and served him! Really?! When I asked him when he came back why I had to wait when the other customer didnt know what he wanted and the other guy came in after me, he shrugged his shoulders and said he saw me after the 2nd guy gave his order. The food is mediocre, greasy, tastes like the fishsticks served at school lunch from the 70s. The people who started to fill the bar were mostly older Swedes with a sprinkling of English speakers also older. I mean older, like 70plus. So maybe the menu is also from the 70s. It gets 3 stars because I've been to other Bishops Arms and they have better service and a more mixed crowd so It might be best to try one of the others in the city. I have to say this is why I like Notting Hill, they really keep track of who walks in, what you've ordered, etc. And their food is consistently good. A last note for Guinness drinkers...it doesnt taste as good either at Bishops Arms it tastes a little flat, in a hard to describe way but I've noticed Guinness does taste different from different tapas vs bottles vs cans. If anyone knows why or thinks I'm not crazy, I'd like to know why. BTW I've never sent back a pint, but maybe I should? read more