The Narrow

This fabulously positioned riverside pub was Gordon Ramsay's first foray from Michelin star chasing to more affordable gastropubs.

Formerly a dockmaster's house and then a boozer called The Barley Mow, as Limehouse went stratospherically upmarket so did this Grade II-listed building becoming The Narrow Street Pub & Dining Room. Sadly the image change did not prove successful and it closed. Echoing one of his TV shows, Ramsay took over the rundown pub in 2006 and with a blaze of publicity, shortened its name to The Narrow, extended the dining room conservatory across the riverside terrace and launched a classically led British menu.

Service, food and ambiance all proved disappointing during our early visits to Ramsay's Narrow. We weren't expecting Hospital Road but we were expecting better. Then in April 2009, the Daily Mail ran a story claiming the food served at The Narrow was merely reheated 'boil in the bag'.

We're happy to report that recent visits have been more enjoyable with well-presented roasts and a good drinks list, including basic cocktails. However, this is a 'pub' without cask ale, the food does not command the praise enjoyed by other London gastro pubs and the atmosphere is somewhat lacking with the conservatory and 'boat room' restaurant feeling very detached from the pub.