The Star of the East

Tucked away in London's East End, The Star of the East isn't just another pub - it's a love letter to everything that makes British boozing culture brilliant. While tourists queue for selfies at trendy Shoreditch bars, savvy locals make their way to this Victorian-era gem that's mastered the delicate art of being both properly old-school and refreshingly current.

The moment you step through the door of The Star of the East, you're greeted by that unmistakable London pub perfume - the sweet maltiness of pulled pints mingling with centuries-old wood and the promise of a properly done Sunday roast. The interior hits that sweet spot between cozy and elegant, with dark wood panels that have absorbed decades of conversations and leather banquettes that invite you to settle in for the long haul. Fresh flowers on the tables (a wonderfully posh touch for a neighborhood pub) add splashes of color against the warm, amber-lit atmosphere.

Let's talk about what makes this place special, shall we? While many London pubs have surrendered their souls to gastropub pretension or generic chain mediocrity, The Star of the East walks that perfect middle path. The bar staff here don't just serve drinks - they're proper characters who remember your usual after two visits and actually seem chuffed to see you walk in. They'll craft you a spicy margarita that would make a Mayfair mixologist blush (complete with house-dehydrated fruit, no less), or pull you a pint of something local with equal enthusiasm.

The sprawling beer garden out back is one of those London miracles - a genuine oasis that feels miles away from the city chaos. With space for about 60 lucky souls, it's the kind of secret spot where summer evenings stretch into night, and strangers become friends over shared plates and second rounds. Dog owners, rejoice - your four-legged friends are more than welcome here, adding to that "everyone's living room" vibe that makes British pubs so special.

Food-wise, The Star of the East proves that pub grub doesn't need to be an afterthought. Their Sunday roast has achieved minor cult status among locals, with the lamb and pork versions earning particular praise. The Yorkshire puddings arrive proudly puffed, the vegetables actually taste of something (the cauliflower cheese is a thing of beauty), and while the portions won't leave you needing a wheelbarrow home, they hit that sweet spot of quality over quantity. At around £20 for a roast, it's perfectly reasonable for London, especially given the caliber of cooking.

The upstairs function room provides a more intimate space for celebrations, though be warned - you'll need to pop downstairs for drinks. But honestly, that's half the fun, isn't it? Making that journey to the bar is practically a British social tradition, and the staff's banter makes it worth the trip every time.

For sports fans, this is one of those rare finds where you can watch the match without feeling like you're in a rowdy chain pub. The atmosphere during big games is electric but never aggressive - more community gathering than testosterone festival.

What really sets The Star of the East apart in London's vast pub landscape is its ability to be everything to everyone without losing its identity. It's smart enough for a date night, casual enough for a quick pint after work, and welcoming enough for a lazy Sunday session. The prices won't make your wallet weep, but the quality ensures you're getting proper value for your pound.

Here's my advice: make your way to The Star of the East on a late Sunday afternoon, when the weekend warriors have retreated and the golden hour light streams through those Victorian windows. Order something local from the tap, maybe grab one of those famous roasts if the kitchen's still serving, and let yourself become part of the furniture. In a city that's constantly chasing the next big thing, this London pub reminds us why some traditions are worth preserving - and why they're even better with a bit of modern polish. Trust me, it'll become your second home before you know it.