I have often been here as it's nearby and has most things. However, this also extends to the service, which is frequently cheeky and provocative. I recently bought some screws from surly staff slouched over the counter looking visibly resentful of customers' presence, while others sidled in and out whispering conspiratorially.
It felt like a comedy sketch. When I challenged the sweeping declaration made by the assistant about a particular product ('they're all like this' he said), he began interrogating me about how long I had lived in the Barbican, before seriously claiming he knew he was right because he had worked at the shop 'since before the Barbican was built' which was clearly impossible. The guy also failed to provide a receipt (ok, my fault for not asking)!
If you want to hear unreformed macho bluff and bluster by knowall white vanmen who assume you're an idiot - the kind of encounter sent up so successfully by comedians Harry and Paul in the hifi shop and perhaps inspired by City Hardware - this is your kind of place. On the other hand, if you're polite, or female (or both), and just want friendly intelligent service, then beware. A bit of banter is fine, Paul, but the days of service like this are surely numbered. read more