The scene: Conveniently on Baker Street between the Tube and Regent’s Park, this pub is a popular haunt for tourists and the after-work crowd. In summer the throng spill on to the pavement, while in winter it’s all about getting cosy in the fireside armchairs.
The grub: Decent British bar food, with a focus on burgers. A good bet for Sunday roasts.
Behind the bar: Extensive wine list and wide variety of lagers and bottled beers. The Volunteer also promotes real ale, and offers several guest beers on draught.
Bill please: Not bad for the location – just shy of £25 for a meal and drink for two.
Verdict: I want to like this pub – it’s got everything that appeals: comfy sofas, good food, reasonable prices and a lively buzz. But the night we went, it was too loud to hold a conversation and our food took 35 minutes to arrive. Perhaps I’m just getting old.
2/5
245-247 Baker St, NW1 6XE
020 7486 4091
Tube: Baker Street
CLAIRE GOODALL
