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ST STEPHEN'S TAVERN ATMOSPHERE
Recommended Reviews - St Stephen's Tavern
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Practically the only cafe and pub that was open in the area at 9:30am. We were so relieved to find this place. They serve breakfast til 11:30am and have a very nice yet small menu. The veggie breakfast was amazing. I was a little disappointed they ran out of vegetarian sausages because I am now quite fond of them in the UK. The hash browns were really good. One big mushroom was very tasty. I loved the haloumi fries mmm mmm savory. We had some time to kill so we had a few drinks in the corner. The seats are comfortable and the staff are friendly. It was nice and quiet in the morning and it was very busy at lunch time. Glad we stumbled across this place.
Picture this: golden hour in London. Big Ben standing proud, ticking away like it knows it's the main character. I've got the crew with me -- a table of six, three of 'em being ankle-biters. We stroll into St Stephen's Tavern, thinking we're about to soak up a classic British pub moment right under Parliament's nose. Atmosphere? Lovely. View? Iconic. Chatter? Flowing. First pint? Smooth as butter on a crumpet. Now onto the food -- I ordered pie and mash, because I still believe in tradition. It was solid. Warm, hearty, and honest. The kids? They went feral for the chicken strip meals -- and I mean feral. I thought nothing of it at first. Bit of fun, feed the youth, keep the peace. Then another round of chicken strips hit the table... and then another... and then another. I'm doing the mental math like Rain Man mid-pint. End tally: six chicken strip meals, two pie and mashes, eight beers max -- and here comes the bill like a slap from Her Majesty herself: £230. Two. Hundred. Thirty. I footed the bill, of course -- because I'm a gentleman and also because no one else moved an inch when the receipt landed. But mate, I nearly choked on my last Peroni. What were those chicken strips? Golden battered nuggets of royalty? Dipped in inflation and served with a side of regret? Service was slow, vibes were alright, but for that price I expected the Queen to personally bless my mash. Moral of the story: beautiful setting, tourist charm, but the real view was my jaw on the floor when I saw that total. Be warned -- Big Ben isn't the only thing that'll make your wallet tick louder.
Is it immediately near many of the tourist sites? Yes. But does it do the trick when you need food and a cold drink? Also yes. We were sat immediately on a Saturday evening and both opted for the fish and chips. Unlike some reviews, I thought the fish was great - it didn't seem frozen at all and you could tell it was hand battered. Crispy, salty and flaky. I didn't care for the fries/chips - but that is more about my preference than the quality of the food. (And I loved the mushy peas!) Again, easy place to stop if you hadn't planned out a meal that day - quick service, smaller menu so no decision fatigue, and cold drinks on tap!
The stop in was great for a quick bite and lager. The fish was tender but tasted somewhat fishy almost as if it were frozen. The beers are phenomenal as we both had lagers mixed with cider. This place is a great pit stop for a quick bite, but nothing more.
Rating this Tavern for its beverages. On our way back to the hotel late at night and most places were looking to close and found this little gem open. Located right next to Big Ben it's the perfect spot for an ale. A great selection of beers on tap. Indoor and outdoor seating. We had quick service.
It was a very busy day with lots of us pesky tourists trying to get some fish and chips and a pint. So the wait was long, even though a table sat empty the whole time we waited. We were eventually sat at that table! Service was very quick though and staff were friendly even though they were obviously harried by how busy it was. Tables were low and made our wrought iron. Stools were slightly uncomfortable. Did made up for almost everything though. Fish and chips were perfect. Couldn't all for a bet first taste of London.
We wanted to come to St Stephen's for lunch to enjoy some classic fish and chips and had a poor experience. First off, it's super touristy. It's very crowded with very limited seating. The menu was pretty expensive for the experience you get here. When we eventually got seated after waiting outside in the heat, we were offered a small crowded table elbow to elbow with strangers. The only seating was tiny stools or a narrow bench. We attempted to order, but they were out of multiple food items and beers, which is kind of problematic at lunchtime to already be out of a significant portion of your menu. After the third time they told us they ran out of something, we decided to leave and go elsewhere. I can't take away too many stars since I didn't actually eat or drink anything, but the service and ambiance were not great, especially when there are so many better fish and chips experiences in London.
Convenient Location - very close to Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Eye of London etc. Food - I ordered Fish n' chips and it was good. Honestly they are all kind of the same to me?? Service - we were seated quickly. Our server was prompt to take our order and accommodated a split check for our us.
Conveniently located in the heart of Westminster, this lovely tavern is a gem. The staff is clearly a well oiled machine. We arrived at lunch to a busy establishment. The wait time was 15 minutes. We received a pager and headed to the back bar to wait. The wait was about 6 minutes. You pay when you order. Food was out on less than 10 minutes. We all chose the fish and chips. Delicious lightly nattered fish with yummy chips (aka steak fries). My hubby was delighted to find a Diet Coke. The rest of the party had still water. Enjoy the gorgeous decor. Being decorated for the holidays added to the charm.
This restaurant was right across from Big Ben. Loved the crowded bar and comfy indoor seats for patrons. We had a nice day out, so we decided to sit outside. ALL the food was amazing and drinks as well. The bathrooms were something beyond gross. Hopefully, management will get this area up to date. The waiter was kind, and the location was busy. I would love to come back just for the food. Things to know: Main restrooms are located downstairs. Again, they both were deplorable. They do have a handicap restroom located upstairs. The location is across the bridge of the hop on hop off red bus stop. Directly across from Big Ben.
Charming old pub conveniently located right by Big Ben and the tube. Of course fish and chips are everywhere in London but this place was recommended to us as having delicious light fish and that's what it was ! The pub itself is very welcoming and packed with people enjoying a pint . The batter on the fish wasn't heavy or greasy and the fish was light , sweet and flaky . Along with delicious fries and regular peas , the dish was yummy . (The standard mushy peas were replaced with regular peas) Our server was very friendly and sweet. The restaurant area was neat and clean with tables on the lower level next to the bar area with more seating upstairs. Unfortunately the bathroom was icky and messy . Otherwise the food was delicious and I would recommend this pub .
Stopping in whenever I'm in town. Good place to stop and have a couple beers and food. It's been consistent for me.
Straight up we were so hungry we could eat a horse when we stopped in here. Most definitely a tourist trap. But a good one nonetheless. I absolutely hate thick cute fries but these were satisfying. Could do a lot worse than here. read more
Lunch with a view if you sit outside. It's a great spot to people watch and see Big Ben. We got lunch here after touring sites in the area and while it was cold outside, we decided to eat outside rather than wait for indoor seating as the inside was pretty busy. I got the fish and chips and the piece of fish was huge. I was shocked of how big it was. Ordering on their website was super easy. Would er here again if in the area read more
Practically the only cafe and pub that was open in the area at 9:30am. We were so relieved to find this place. They serve breakfast til 11:30am and have a very nice yet small menu. The veggie breakfast was amazing. I was a little disappointed they ran out of vegetarian sausages because I am now quite fond of them in the UK. The hash browns were really good. One big mushroom was very tasty. I loved the haloumi fries mmm mmm savory. We had some time to kill so we had a few drinks in the corner. The seats are comfortable and the staff are friendly. It was nice and quiet in the morning and it was very busy at lunch time. Glad we stumbled across this place. read more
28 days ago
Picture this: golden hour in London. Big Ben standing proud, ticking away like it knows it's the main character. I've got the crew with me -- a table of six, three of 'em being ankle-biters. We stroll into St Stephen's Tavern, thinking we're about to soak up a classic British pub moment right under Parliament's nose. Atmosphere? Lovely. View? Iconic. Chatter? Flowing. First pint? Smooth as butter on a crumpet. Now onto the food -- I ordered pie and mash, because I still believe in tradition. It was solid. Warm, hearty, and honest. The kids? They went feral for the chicken strip meals -- and I mean feral. I thought nothing of it at first. Bit of fun, feed the youth, keep the peace. Then another round of chicken strips hit the table... and then another... and then another. I'm doing the mental math like Rain Man mid-pint. End tally: six chicken strip meals, two pie and mashes, eight beers max -- and here comes the bill like a slap from Her Majesty herself: £230. Two. Hundred. Thirty. I footed the bill, of course -- because I'm a gentleman and also because no one else moved an inch when the receipt landed. But mate, I nearly choked on my last Peroni. What were those chicken strips? Golden battered nuggets of royalty? Dipped in inflation and served with a side of regret? Service was slow, vibes were alright, but for that price I expected the Queen to personally bless my mash. Moral of the story: beautiful setting, tourist charm, but the real view was my jaw on the floor when I saw that total. Be warned -- Big Ben isn't the only thing that'll make your wallet tick louder. read more
1 year ago
Is it immediately near many of the tourist sites? Yes. But does it do the trick when you need food and a cold drink? Also yes. We were sat immediately on a Saturday evening and both opted for the fish and chips. Unlike some reviews, I thought the fish was great - it didn't seem frozen at all and you could tell it was hand battered. Crispy, salty and flaky. I didn't care for the fries/chips - but that is more about my preference than the quality of the food. (And I loved the mushy peas!) Again, easy place to stop if you hadn't planned out a meal that day - quick service, smaller menu so no decision fatigue, and cold drinks on tap! read more
The stop in was great for a quick bite and lager. The fish was tender but tasted somewhat fishy almost as if it were frozen. The beers are phenomenal as we both had lagers mixed with cider. This place is a great pit stop for a quick bite, but nothing more. read more
11 months ago
Rating this Tavern for its beverages. On our way back to the hotel late at night and most places were looking to close and found this little gem open. Located right next to Big Ben it's the perfect spot for an ale. A great selection of beers on tap. Indoor and outdoor seating. We had quick service. read more
It was a very busy day with lots of us pesky tourists trying to get some fish and chips and a pint. So the wait was long, even though a table sat empty the whole time we waited. We were eventually sat at that table! Service was very quick though and staff were friendly even though they were obviously harried by how busy it was. Tables were low and made our wrought iron. Stools were slightly uncomfortable. Did made up for almost everything though. Fish and chips were perfect. Couldn't all for a bet first taste of London. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
1 year ago
We wanted to come to St Stephen's for lunch to enjoy some classic fish and chips and had a poor experience. First off, it's super touristy. It's very crowded with very limited seating. The menu was pretty expensive for the experience you get here. When we eventually got seated after waiting outside in the heat, we were offered a small crowded table elbow to elbow with strangers. The only seating was tiny stools or a narrow bench. We attempted to order, but they were out of multiple food items and beers, which is kind of problematic at lunchtime to already be out of a significant portion of your menu. After the third time they told us they ran out of something, we decided to leave and go elsewhere. I can't take away too many stars since I didn't actually eat or drink anything, but the service and ambiance were not great, especially when there are so many better fish and chips experiences in London. read more
1 year ago
Convenient Location - very close to Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Eye of London etc. Food - I ordered Fish n' chips and it was good. Honestly they are all kind of the same to me?? Service - we were seated quickly. Our server was prompt to take our order and accommodated a split check for our us. read more
Conveniently located in the heart of Westminster, this lovely tavern is a gem. The staff is clearly a well oiled machine. We arrived at lunch to a busy establishment. The wait time was 15 minutes. We received a pager and headed to the back bar to wait. The wait was about 6 minutes. You pay when you order. Food was out on less than 10 minutes. We all chose the fish and chips. Delicious lightly nattered fish with yummy chips (aka steak fries). My hubby was delighted to find a Diet Coke. The rest of the party had still water. Enjoy the gorgeous decor. Being decorated for the holidays added to the charm. read more
This restaurant was right across from Big Ben. Loved the crowded bar and comfy indoor seats for patrons. We had a nice day out, so we decided to sit outside. ALL the food was amazing and drinks as well. The bathrooms were something beyond gross. Hopefully, management will get this area up to date. The waiter was kind, and the location was busy. I would love to come back just for the food. Things to know: Main restrooms are located downstairs. Again, they both were deplorable. They do have a handicap restroom located upstairs. The location is across the bridge of the hop on hop off red bus stop. Directly across from Big Ben. read more
3 years ago
Charming old pub conveniently located right by Big Ben and the tube. Of course fish and chips are everywhere in London but this place was recommended to us as having delicious light fish and that's what it was ! The pub itself is very welcoming and packed with people enjoying a pint . The batter on the fish wasn't heavy or greasy and the fish was light , sweet and flaky . Along with delicious fries and regular peas , the dish was yummy . (The standard mushy peas were replaced with regular peas) Our server was very friendly and sweet. The restaurant area was neat and clean with tables on the lower level next to the bar area with more seating upstairs. Unfortunately the bathroom was icky and messy . Otherwise the food was delicious and I would recommend this pub . read more
1 year ago
Stopping in whenever I'm in town. Good place to stop and have a couple beers and food. It's been consistent for me. read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
As a tourist who could find fish n chips right by the Big Ben, it's very exciting. The service is very friendly, im sure there are most tourists, packed of people, but the waitresses are nice and smiles. In such a location with tasty and crispy traditional food and good beer, that's awesome. And the price is great. read more
2 years ago
St. Stephen's Tavern: Pie-fection! Despite the NFL presence on top of tourist, I snagged a great table and was welcomed by friendly staff. I ordered the Steak & Tangle Foot pie with creamy mash and gravy at the bar, and it arrived piping hot and absolutely delicious! Every bite was a flavor explosion. Highly recommend this spot to any American visiting London! read more
2 years ago
This is an historic pub where you will have the chance to meet members of the parliament at night after a late session. It is said that Margareth Tatcher " The iron lady " went to have a pint after she resigned from Parliament. The food is decent typically pub fare. I have to admit I am not a big fan of Fish & Chips..... read more
2 years ago
Classic fish and chips spot in a great location. The server was brusque but the food came out quickly and he warned against keeping our bags toward the street. Restrooms were clean. The prices were expensive for the quantity but we were in a nice spot, the cider was delicious and the halloumi fries were cooked well. The fish and chips were flaky and moist. Would recommend. read more
Attracted to this pub on our visit by the location and the claims to fame on their website. So excited for my first fish and chips experience in London! We had a short wait in a very crowded bar before heading upstairs to a table. With real estate being in short supply we had a table crammed in between the stairs and a server station so neither side of the table had much wiggle room nor did the chairs/stools invite settling in comfortably for a pint. Three stars for their steak and ale pie which was absolutely delicious, but otherwise nothing stood out and I wouldn't go back. Turns out there is a much better option just down the road! The fish and chips left a bit to be desired. Ever so slightly undercooked and a bit bland; generally underwhelming. I was jealous of my sister's pie! Another companion had bangers and mash and the sausages were nicely flavored and mild. read more
4 years ago
We stopped here for lunch after we lost the 3-hour walking tour of various London palaces, parks and Parliament. It's a climb up the stairs to the upper dining room, but the food was worth the climb. After our tour we were hot and tired and the Mortimer's cider and house lager were cold and refreshing. Hubby wanted a burger with fries but I wanted some British fish and chips. To my surprise, the piece of fish was huge and served with English peas on the side! The chips were just the right size to be crispy and not limp, so I didn't mind the lack of ketchup. Hubby's fries were skinny and crisp as well, and he enjoyed his burger. Our server confirmed a story Hubby had heard about a bell ringing in the pub to alert any members of Parliament that a vote was about to take place so they can get back to vote! The only drawback was the location of the toilets being in the basement; I just couldn't handle one more set of stairs that were not absolutely necessary at the time. read more
2 years ago
Came here as a tired & hungry tourist who was looking for a taste of fish & chips. Location is conveniently right in front of Big Ben. Inside can be crowded. They have small round tables with bench seating and really HEAVY sitting stools & some stand up tables. They also have patio seating. Service could be better. Food was okay. We had the classic fish & chips & the chicken tenders. Fish was cooked well, crispy batter and flaky, nicely seasoned. Chips (potato fries - tourist remember LOL) were big slices and crispy, not overly salty. Fish tastes better with the accompanying tartar sauce. Don't bother with the chicken. It came with the breading looking like it was fried in a dark, old oil. It was very salty and didn't look appetizing. read more
2 years ago
Mellow vibe, some local professionals and some tourists as well. Very pleasant experience with friendly clientele who kindly allowed me to share their high top table. Easy walk from hotel, I'll be back. Plus Badger is available. read more
3 years ago
Cozy little spot across from Big Ben. They know how to make their eggs. Really good simple breakfast. Friendly staff and a cool old vibe on the inside. read more
2 years ago
2 years ago
This place is an absolute shithole. My wife and I went here for a drink and apps, and it was one of the worst decisions I've made in a long time. After receiving our food and eating it for awhile, we saw a rat crawling on the floor under the table next to us. We promptly paid and informed the manager on the way out. She told me that they were well aware of the rat and were planning to take care of it in the future. This is flabbergasting and not informing patrons has to be some sort of a health code violation. I hope these asshats get written up for this, and I'm happy to attest to these facts to the UK Health Authorities. Also, while not a minor point, the food and service were abysmal and justified a 1 star rating on their own. read more
A typical British tavern with great selection of draft ales to choose from! Located right across the street from Big Ben, this little tavern will make you feel like you are traveling back in time! The ale is poured manually and it will take a few strokes to fill the glass so be patient! The Ale was not cold which from what I learned is how that beer should be drank! It tasted flat compared to what we are used to in the states but this is all part of the experience! It was great! The fish and chips not so much, too much fry and very little fish! The meat and foot pie was an interesting take on a pot pie but battered in beer, definitely a must try if you are into trying new meals! Try this place! cheers! read more
3 years ago
3 years ago
Greasy food. Full of people because it is close to attractions. Nothing special. Not coming back. read more
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