Formosa Street, London W9 1EE www.theprincealfred.com
Danielle Woodward steps back in time in this Victorian pub and restaurant in Maida Vale.
The atmosphere was calm and convivial on the weekday evening we visited, with West London’s workers chatting and enjoying a pint after hours, just as they have done since the pub first opened in 1856.
Walking through the pub, you’re surrounded by Victoriana. Images of Alfred (Queen Victoria’s second son and the pub’s namesake) hang on the walls and the impressive cellar area downstairs (originally used for storing coal), has cosy booths situated under stone arches, that are perfect for small gatherings.
Our table was in the new dining area extension, with its contemporary style and vast skylight making the most of the early evening light. The vibe was relaxed; ideal for catching up with a friend you haven’t seen in a while.
There’s a wide range of wines with clear explanations of flavours,which helped us make our choices. I went for a glass of English Bolney Estate Lychgate White, which had a hint of orchard fruit and from the’savoury and complex’ section my friend chose a red, a Côtes de Rhône St Esprit Delas, described as’elegant, black pepper, violet.’ Both went down well.
Mains on offer included sea bass, pork belly, duck leg confit, burgers, steak and sausage and mash – all very tempting, but I went for the lamb with ragstone goat cheese, peppers, sultanas, minted peas and mint sauce, which came a little too rare for my taste but the sweetness of the sultanas and mint contrasted well with the savoury meat.
My friend continued her truffle theme by choosing the potato dumplings, wild mushroom, spinach, truffle cream and Charmer crisps, which, she said, was rich and satisfying.
We left the Prince Alfred with full, satisfied bellies and the experience of enjoying good food with good company in pleasant, picturesque surroundings. I think we might well return.