Red Lion Duke of York Street
Finding it is part of the fun. It’s tucked away on a quiet side street in St. James’s, like a little secret that only a few people know. You walk past fancy Mayfair shops, then… bam. A red door with a glowing lantern.
RED LION, London - 2 Duke of York St, St. James's - Restaurant Reviews
It feels incredibly satisfying to lead a friend there. “Just trust me,” you’ll say, turning down a narrow street. When you open the door and they see the cut-glass mirrors and the bartender in a waistcoat, you’ll see their face crack into a huge smile. Mission accomplished.
Drinks that feel like a hug
Sure, they have all the usual pints. But this is a pub where you should order something a little more classic. Try a pint of Harvey’s Sussex Best Bitter. It tastes like a proper English embrace—nutty, smooth, and not trying to be a gimmick.
Or, go for a perfectly poured Guinness. In most pubs, a Guinness is just a drink. Here, it feels like a ceremony. The barman tilts the glass just so, and you wait with happy anticipation. It’s the little rituals, right?
If wine is your thing, they’ve got a proper selection, not just two sad bottles that have been open since Tuesday. Everything here is treated with respect. It’s the kind of place where the bartender remembers your name if you’ve been twice.