The Brougham

Tucked away in the heart of Angel, The Brougham in London is one of those rare finds that makes you feel like you've discovered a secret society's hangout spot. This former lesbian disco turned contemporary pub bears its history proudly, with a terracotta plaque still whispering tales of its previous life as The Carved Red Lion from the 18th century. It's the kind of place where old souls meet modern spirits, quite literally.

Walking into The Brougham feels like stepping into your coolest friend's living room – if your friend happened to have impeccable taste and a fully stocked bar. The 'L'-shaped space unfolds like a well-crafted story, starting with an intimate narrow section where cozy seating beckons you to stay awhile. Follow the wooden floorboards up a few steps, and you'll discover what might be Angel's most perfectly positioned perch: a raised area with wraparound banquettes that practically beg for long, lazy afternoon sessions.

The white walls serve as a canvas for carefully curated artwork, while the small fireplace adds that touch of traditional pub comfort we all secretly crave. But it's the basement bar, available for private functions, that holds the venue's best-kept secret – it's like finding platform 9¾, but for grown-ups who prefer pints to potions. During warmer months, the few outdoor benches become some of the most coveted real estate in all of London, perfect for people-watching while sipping a carefully crafted cocktail.

Speaking of drinks, The Brougham has mastered the art of the perfect pour. Their keg selection might lean mainstream, but it's executed with precision – the Brixton Pale Ale comes with the kind of head that would make a beer aficionado weep with joy. The cocktail menu deserves special mention; it's clear someone behind the bar has a PhD in mixology and a master's in creativity. But it's the Sunday roast that's become legendary among locals. When a pub's roast dinner gets more breathless reviews than the latest Marvel movie, you know they're doing something right.

The atmosphere here shape-shifts throughout the day, but it never loses its charm. Early evenings bring a candlelit glow that transforms the space into something almost magical, while weekends strike that perfect balance between lively and laid-back. You'll find young professionals unwinding after work, couples on carefully planned dates, and solo visitors catching up on the rugby, all coexisting in perfect harmony. The staff members are those rare hospitality unicorns who seem to genuinely enjoy their jobs, anticipating your needs before you've even realized them yourself.

Don't let the contemporary makeover fool you – this place hasn't forgotten its pub roots. Yes, there's a sophisticated edge to the decor, and yes, the pizza menu could hold its own against some of London's dedicated pizzerias, but The Brougham maintains that indefinable quality that makes a proper British pub feel like home. The fish and chips (a reasonable £16) comes with the kind of crispy batter that makes you wonder if they've got a secret recipe locked away somewhere.

The Brougham sits in that sweet spot between casual local and destination venue. It's refined enough for a first date, relaxed enough for a Sunday session, and reliable enough to become your regular. The team has managed to create something rather special here – a space that honors its historic roots while confidently stepping into the modern era.

Next time you find yourself in Angel, look for the building with the historic terracotta plaque and step inside The Brougham. Whether you're seeking a memorable Sunday roast, a perfectly poured pint, or just a cozy corner to call your own for a few hours, you'll find it here. Just don't blame me if you end up making it your new local – some places have a way of turning first-time visitors into regulars before they've even finished their first drink.