The King's Head Pub: king of Earl's Court

There are not enough London pubs like this one. The King's Head is the business.

Just far and close enough from the hustle-bustle of Earl’s Court Road down a quiet sideroad opposite the tube station, and with a number of unscrupulous looking massage parlours a little further on, lies our pub in question.

Immediately upon entry the smell of an old geezer's hideout tickles and seduces the nostrils in a way that few things in life truly can – special mentions also to the whiff of a fresh tube of tennis balls and a greasy old petrol station out in the sticks. This was a mythical beginning. Indeed, like a horn on a horse precious few establishments these days can claim to offer this aromatic part of the pub experience anymore.

A rich collection of people – but not uncomfortably overcrowded – decorate the bar and the tables about the interior. Comfy banquettes line most of the walls and tuck into its cosy corners giving a nice inward view of the well-sized room and characters within it. And, at one end of the bar several very cushy looking back-supporting bar stools offer the potential for some friendly banter with the affable bar staff. In fact one couple there seemed more interested in the barmaid than each other – either they were angling for a fresh start or a threesome. It was all so pleasing that not even the two young lads shorter than the bottom of the windowsill could put a dent in my wonder of this atmosphere. And usually just one of those is enough to put me off anything.

The selection of drinks on offer is nice and broad. But if you’re looking for a dirty Carling or a flat Carlsberg then this is not the place for you. Here they’ve got enough ales, golden, amber and IPA to make you think for at least a minute before you can order in good faith. And when you see beer names
on tap labels you’ve never encountered before then you know you’ve found an accomplished establishment to take your time in. This was such a place. That’s not to mention the collection of whiskeys and more adorning the wall behind the bar too if it’s something a bit stronger you’re after to nurse the freneticism of London – or indulge your spirit in it a bit more vigorously. Either way, this is truly a haven within the Devil’s jaw.

There is also a very tempting looking food menu for those with a peckish disposition. Although I have not tried any of the dishes yet (after two visits) the temptation of the offerings is too great to put off for too long. The head chef, Rodion Beregoi, has a rich history in the cooking industry after a stint at the Oxo Tower amongst other venues, so the omens on the food front are good and strong. And yes it is cheaper than Oxo Tower too, fear not. Most main dishes come in at around £15, with everyone’s favourite – a pub burger – in this ballpark too depending on extra toppings.

For those not looking for rowdiness but for something a little more discrete, this one comes highly recommended. I will surely not be able to count the number of times I return here in the future.


Location: London, UK

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