Shakespeares Head

Ah yes, the Shakespeare's Head in London - another tourist-trap pub in Carnaby Street trying to cash in on literary credibility. Because obviously, what better way to honor England's greatest playwright than with mediocre pub grub and overpriced pints? At least, that's what I thought before my cynical heart was reluctantly won over by this surprisingly decent establishment.

Let's be clear - walking into Shakespeare's Head, you'll find yourself swimming through the usual sea of selfie-taking tourists and lost souls seeking refuge from Carnaby Street's shopping madness. But unlike many central London pubs that have sacrificed their soul to the Instagram gods, this place has somehow managed to maintain a whisper of authentic charm.

The interior reads like a love letter to traditional British pub design, though I suspect Shakespeare himself would've preferred something a bit more dramatic. Dark wood paneling lines the walls, and large windows flood the space with natural light - a architectural choice that feels almost brave for a London pub, where many seem to prefer keeping their patrons in mushroom-like darkness.

Upstairs reveals a less-crowded sanctuary that's actually worth the climb, assuming your legs haven't given out from hauling shopping bags. The second floor offers a considerably more civilized drinking experience, with comfortable seating and enough space to actually hear your companions speak - a novel concept in central London.

Now, about the drinks. The beer selection won't win any craft brewing awards, but it's solid enough to keep both real ale enthusiasts and casual drinkers satisfied. The Greene King IPA might not change your life, but it's consistently well-kept, and the rotating guest ales occasionally surprise with something interesting. Yes, you'll pay Zone 1 London prices, but at least you're not being charged Mayfair rates for Wetherspoons quality.

The food menu is where I found myself experiencing an unexpected plot twist worthy of the Bard himself. While I approached their "pub classics" with the same enthusiasm as Hamlet approaching his uncle's dinner invitation, I was genuinely surprised. The Sunday roast, in particular, deserves special mention - when they're not running low on supplies, it's actually... dare I say it... good? The Yorkshire puddings rise like well-constructed theatrical sets, and the roast potatoes show evidence of actual culinary effort.

Service, much like a Shakespearean comedy, can veer between farce and charm depending on the day and hour. During peak tourist times, expect the bar staff to be as overwhelmed as Puck juggling multiple love potions. However, they generally maintain their composure with remarkable British stoicism, and I've witnessed genuine moments of warmth that seem almost out of place this close to Oxford Circus.

The pub's dog-friendly policy adds an entertaining subplot to the proceedings, with various four-legged patrons often providing better entertainment than you'd find in some West End shows. The outdoor seating area, while not exactly spacious, offers prime people-watching opportunities of the Carnaby Street fashion parade.

What truly sets Shakespeare's Head apart from its central London competitors is its surprising ability to function as both tourist attraction and legitimate local pub. Yes, you'll hear multiple languages and witness countless photos of pints being taken for social media, but you'll also spot genuine regulars who've clearly made this their local for reasons beyond convenience.

For all my initial skepticism, I find myself returning to Shakespeare's Head with increasing frequency. Perhaps it's the decent beer selection, the better-than-it-needs-to-be food, or simply the fact that it provides a relatively calm port in the storm of central London. Whatever the reason, this pub has earned its place in London's vast theatrical production of drinking establishments.

Don't come expecting the greatest show on earth, but do come for a reliably decent performance of that classic British production: The Good Local Pub. Shakespeare's Head in London may not be haute theatre, but it's certainly worth a visit for both groundlings and nobles alike. Book a table upstairs if you're planning to eat - the best seats in the house fill up faster than a Globe matinee.