Sometimes I think Boris is building CrossRail just to challenge my sense of direction. I used to understand the area around Tottenham Court Road. I was a whizz at Charing Cross Road navigation. Now every time I leave the station, I look like a confused tourist. Goddamnit, I was a film runner. I know Soho. This is my stomping ground. And I've been to the Royal George before.
I still walked half-way to Cambridge Circus before I found it again.
If you know precisely where you're going post-refurbishment, it's actually remarkably easy to spot as a result of its befairylighted exterior. And also, now, thanks to the huge, incongruous, nauseatingly pink sign.
Don't get me wrong: I'm a fan of the colour. Like, a big fan. My bedroom walls are full-on fuchsia. Half my Christmas presents comprised rosy-hued kitchen implements. Nonetheless, the colour, typeface and size of their sign are out of place, ugly and incredibly naff, giving the impression of a particularly crummy student union and above all, totally at odds with the pub itself. It's already situated right next to G-A-Y; they hardly need to up the campness quota.
It's a shame because the hideous signage detracts from the interior which is a pretty decent, largely forgettable (but hardly revolting) pub. Good amount of seating, including several large tables for bigger groups. They have a couple of interesting beers on tap and in the fridge (not many, but enough) and food, according to the blackboard menu, is standard upmarket pub fare (posh burgers, roast chicken, salmon fish cakes) but I didn't eat so couldn't comment on the execution. Someone mentioned Connect 4 nestling on a shelf round the back. Well done George. Everyone loves Connect 4. Except me, when I lose (which is often).
But never mind all of that. I DON'T UNDERSTAND THE PINK SIGN. What are they trying to do? To say? What image do they wish to project? It's so - well - I don't get it. There's no consistency. Confusion reigns. Posh chicken and imported beer and pink signs just . . . they just don't work. Sorry George. But given the plethora of pubs in the area, until you work out your personality issues, I can't see myself voluntarily returning. read more