The Marylebone

A nice little stop on a Sunday afternoon, with happy hour every day from 12-5. Natalie served us, knew her stuff, and helped us choose drinks, appetizers and a pizza.

We tried Truffle chips, brought over from somewhere nearby. There weren't many, but they tasted good. The bar staff were great, the clientele were nice, and the flowers outside looked lovely. We started with a couple of Neck oils, then noticed the 241 cocktails for £13.49 and ordered a Marylebone Spritz. Then we had another, and another. It's a great alternative to an Aperol Spritz. We were in London for a long weekend and this was the first new pub we visited today. The chilled-out soul 70's music was good, and although it was nearly empty around 2, it got really busy within an hour. What a super pub.

I wouldn't recommend booking the back room for a private event without first clarifying the security arrangements. We hired it for a birthday party, and several guests left their bags in a corner, thinking the room was private and secure. But the fire escape door in the room was unlocked, letting someone come in straight from the street. There was a bouncer at the main entrance, but that side door bypassed it. My bag, with around £300 worth of belongings, was stolen. The manager reviewed the CCTV and confirmed it had been taken. When I asked why the public could enter a room that was supposed to be private, I was told the fire door couldn't be locked for safety reasons. I understand fire exits need to meet regulations, but they're usually designed to open from the inside only and are often alarmed. Who has ever had to escape a fire from the street into a bar??? Having direct access from the street to a private event space feels like a serious security risk. Someone could walk in unnoticed and, for instance, spike a drink. It also raises wider safety concerns. I honestly wouldn't be surprised if the bar was in on it. I didn't feel they fully acknowledged how serious this was.

The Back Room worked really well for our company function and is a great space to hire privately. Everything was outstandingly organised beforehand, and the service on the day was impeccable. Thanks to everyone who helped the evening run so smoothly.