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Review: Veronica Blake
IF THERE was one pub which is truly ‘indie' in spirit then
it has to be Camden’s Lock Tavern.
I’m surprised that Camden had to wait so long for a pub
which truly reflects the local spirit. Part Brit-pop, part Boho,
even the punters look like they’re in a Manchester Brit-pop
band.
Opposite the Stables Market in Chalk Farm Road, the pub is packed
to capacity seven nights a week.
It's so busy, that they’ve installed two burly bouncers
at the door.
Owned by John Carter, the Tavern has a uniqeness about it, neither
traditional pub nor bland All Bar One-type chain.
The staff are friendly. Manager, Tom, is a former music producer
from Manchester.
There’s some excellent pub grub on offer and you never
know who’s going to pop in the door on any given night on
the decks. Radio 1 D.J. Rob da Bank, Mylo, The Libertines, Razorlight
and Bloc Party have all dazzled the punters with their spontaneous
sets.
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Bolth the rooftop terrace and garden
are always busy, especially on Friday nights when there’s
a bit of a scrum.
I had a really decent bangers and mash. The chips are just the
right crispiness and actually featured in ‘Potato Quarterly’,
who described them as being at the ‘forefront of a Potato
based Revolution’ - not bad for the humble spud.
The juke box churns out the indie hits at a a deafening level,
but you can always seek refuge on the roof terrace or garden.
Summer Sundays are something else at the Lock Tavern, there’s
no excuse for being bored on Sunday afternoons.
Treat your mum to a traditional roast or BBQ in the garden where
she will be serenaded by a dazzling line-up of Indie talent.
Through August, the pub has lined up some top D.J.’s on
two floors. On August 21, there’s a pre-Festival party with
special guests from the Isle of Wight Fest.
The fun kicks off at 3.30pm and dancing is encouraged.
It’s like one big Summertime party each Sunday, so get
the old man away off the sofa, chuck away that remote control,
mum out of the kitchen and head for the Lock Tavern. Sundays in
Chalk Farm will never be the same again.
Lock Tavern,
35,Chalk Farm Rd.
N.W.1.
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