The Crown & Cushion

£12 / Thai, British, Asian, Vegetarian options

133-135 Westminster Bridge Rd, London

Opening hours

11AM-11PM

Sunday 11AM-10:30PM
Monday 11AM-11PM
Tuesday 11AM-11PM
Wednesday 11AM-11PM
Thursday 11AM-11PM
Friday 11AM-11PM
Saturday 11AM-11PM

London's Best Guinness and Thai Delights

In my latest escapade into the world of London pubs-cum-Thai restaurants—a concept that's a paradox wrapped in delight—I discovered an oasis that flaunts itself as the Crown and Cushion. Nestled somewhere between the nonchalant glare of the Big Ben and the often apathetic pavement of a generic city block, this establishment serves pints and pad Thai with almost equal reverence. My Guinness, I am elated to report, arrived unfalteringly foamy and robust, proving they do indeed know their way around a beer tap as much as a wok. The pub's unique topography divided into the downstairs bustle of laughs and libations, harmoniously shared airtime with an upstairs that bravely embraces the pungency of lemongrass and a kick from chili—an earnest combination attempting to replicate two hemispheres under one quaint roof.

The Thai restaurant seems not just an afterthought pasted above in an attempt to one-up gastro pubs, but an attraction in its own right. Friendly pub staff navigate the dual nature of this eatery, bending over forwards, or upwards rather, to ensure the cross-cultural offerings traverse any linguistic or culinary quagmires. While there was a hiccup on the hospitality highway—a spat of aggression here, a misplaced cash register key press there—it primarily came across as a moment of human error rather than regular exhibition of character. Most predominantly, the food and drink presented tasty reparations. Vegetarians will find lotuses of options sprung directly from Laos, and meanwhile, ale-lovers embrace lovingly-pulled pints of local and not-so-local brews. Yes, the décor might whisper reminders of Britain's imperial hold—as charming as it is contested—but emerge singing the soothing strains of Southeast Asia. Thank rare pub gems like these for lending layers to London’s booze and cuisine conundrum since versatile joints like this push bars high and cracks between culture continue joyously intertwining. — Penelope Savory