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VERSION:2.1
N:The George
FN:The George
TEL;WORK;VOICE:020 7790 7335
ADR;WORK:;;373 Commercial Road;E1 0LA
URL:
NOTE:I had heard some rumours about this place recently. The first revelation was the surprising news that this was a safe watering hole and given the source of this information I knew that I wouldn't be needing my stab vest after all. The second rumour was that the place had 'gone trendy'. I was intrigued and seeing as I only live around the corner I simply had to pay a visit. The pub is a grand early 19th century edifice that stands proudly on the corner of Jubilee Street and Commercial Road. Its white façade is dominated by an enormous "Double Diamond" sign. Its size leads you to falsely believe it is the name of the pub. The first impression is of an Eastend boozer that has fallen on hard times. A derelict and very dodgy nite (sic) club named "Stepneys" occupies the arse-end of the pub. It has obviously been a very long time indeed since the dance floor pulsated to the rhythm of white stilettos. It is hard to imagine it as a salubrious venue even when it was open. As a consequence of all of this you can be forgiven for wanting to turn on your heels and walk away - but don't, this is an interesting place. On entering you find yourself in a large room with the wooden floors, battered furniture and a whole host of items that look like they have been rescued from a skip. The wooden posts have been stripped to achieve a 'distressed' look and the whole place resembles a trendy version of Steptoe's yard, but with candles. A wooden panelled bar occupies one end of the room. The decorative tiled wall behind the bar has to be seen to be believed. I think the whole rustic chic look works here, although I fear the pub could fall flat on its arse in the bleak environs of Commercial Road. However, judging by the people going though the door on a Friday night it might just make it. Beer-wise there is Czech lager on tap and ale lovers will find an interesting range of bottled beers if they look hard enough. Surprising.
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