Porterhouse is popular for a reason

Very often we like to bring you a choice little hideaway, an undiscovered gem with a few enchanting flaws. But we also have to concede that, if a place is really popular, chances are they're doing something right.

Porterhouse is a Brewing Co. in Dublin who have opened their own select chain of pubs. There aren't many in the chain - quality is the watchword rather than quantity.

The Porterhouse in Maiden Lane is a huge boozer and expensively decorated in brewery copper and antique doodads and yet is designed full of cosy nooks for you and your chums to hide away in.

The house beers are brewed in Dublin to their own recipes - 3 stouts (including a miraculous oyster stout), real ales and lagers. Responsible pub reviewers would, of course, never suggest that you try a pint of each one in one night. But they're all good (ahem).

One lift entrance and toilets offer some disabled access. Live music, decent food, a patio (where those who want to be seen can be), and the location in the heart of London's theatre and eating district mean this pub is very busy. But they've done their research, they know what the "craic" is - it's another word for a niche.

FOOD REVIEW
Hearty Irish-style staples. Both the burger and the corned beef were pretty good, and reasonably priced, too.

FOOD RATING: 2 FOOD VALUE: 2

NEAREST STATION: Covent Garden station

FEATURES
Disabled facilities
ATM
Real ales and continental beers
Function room available
Live music
Outdoor seating
Sky TV (small screens)

The Porterhouse
21-22 Maiden Lane, WC2E 7NA