Lord's Tavern

Unmatched Ambiance for Cricket Enthusiasts

Ah, the Lord's Tavern. Many might call it an afterthought to the cricketing spectacle next door, but on my recent visit, I found it to be much more than a mere accompaniment to the hallowed grounds of Lord's. Opening its doors from the likes of those enjoying pre-match tipples to tourists finishing up on a tour next door, the Tavern offers a resounding welcome worthy of its esteemed neighbor—a cricket ball throw away from ensuring nobody departs unsatisfied or unheard.

Entering at the genteel hour of 11 am, you might expect only the clinking of empty pint glasses and hushed whispers of anticipation. Yet, there lies a gentle buzz—the humdrum chorus of early birds raising freshly poured glasses, with gluten-free options nestled in for inclusivity's sake. And though hosts attempt bravely to mask the venue's modern sterility with decorous nods to tradition—preferably sans flat-screens diverging attention from food, try they must; sublime they need not dominate. Not a “destination” perhaps for culinary purists—a succulent shepherd’s pie may lose itself amidst puddles of gratuitous gravy—but where camaraderie embraces, grievances like personnel lags find themselves blushing into insignificance. Let us all wag a commendatory finger at sweet Kayleigh, a server starlet twinkling amidst distinctly unhurried table service. Problems? Sure—but where chompers showcase stiff upper lips and notice avoidance reigns supreme, enthusiasts conversing cricket will rinse down any kinks hither or thither with what is predominantly passable fare. Ultimately, any remission fades beneath hospitable tides—and as they say—a returning critic forgets past grievances quicker than an umpire dismisses appeals from an over-ebullient bowler. Would one return? A definite maybe, armed as such with the conflicting truths that is quintessentially cricket’s favorite nook. — Milo Tastemaker