The Earl Derby is a nice pub. Worth a try, but don't expect too much.
After reading good comments and reviews about The Earl Derby on Kilburn High Road, I went there a month after it opened. I was once at the place that was there before, and it was not a pub where I wanted to go again. Clearly, they have put some effort into making The Earl Derby a nice place, and it is much better than the old boozer before. This pub looks nice, classic, with a little bit industrial chic by using special light bulbs. - I am not entirely sure if The Earl Derby is probably not too much gastropub for the area and personally, I think the light bulbs do not really match the general upmarket-oriented design of the place.
That's the interior, now to the food. I had a chicken dish unfortunately, it was a bit hit and miss. Some bites were cooked to perfection, others a bit over and dry. I liked the very nice and crispy skin. The skinny chips I had on the side tasted good, nothing special, but proper chips without fault.
I ordered a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand with my food, and found it a bit too spicy. Overall, the wine reminded me a bit of a muscat wine, which is probably why I did not like it too much. The wine was good, just not my favourite flavours.
I must say, the service was very friendly, but I was a little bit surprised about how long it had taken them to clear the table when I arrived, as it was not too busy.
Overall, The Earl Derby is a good addition to the area, but since I came across raving comments just after it opened, I must admit that it fell short of my expectations and did not blow me away. read more