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The Marksman
The Marksman has always been one of the more friendly and homely Hackney pubs, so when we noticed some changes had taken place, it was with a dose of relief that we discovered that the owners have simply built upon this reputation.
Sat on Hackney Road, a short stroll from Columbia Road this is a warm and friendly pub with a genuinely mixed set of punters.
The interior is still traditional, with a good deal of dark wood and some nice 1960s features still behind the bar.
It has been subtly updated, such as with an unusual chandelier made from bottles, but this is still a proper pub.
The service behind the bar was top notch - welcoming and engaging - and this must've rubbed off as everyone from all walks of life was getting on famously; we'll overlook the Hoxtonista in his 30s who actually thought dressing like Phil Collins (circa 1985) was a good idea.
The only ale on tap was Timothy Tailors but it was in good nick and they have moved with the times by providing a small but perfectly formed food menu.
If they keep up the standard, they'll hopefully be able to dispense with the "will you be joining us for dinner?" line we received upon arrival.
They've also managed to get themselves a bit of publicity with the clever 'barter for beer' concept, where you might be able to get a pint out of them in exchange for a hacksaw, or a pile of CDs.
Overall, the area around Columbia Road isn't short of excellent pubs and the Marksman certainly doesn't let the side down.
FOOD REVIEW:
A small but very well made menu. The cheeseburger and chips at £8 was excellent, with exquisitely made chips and a succulent burger.
It looks small but is pretty filling. Meanwhile the Roasted Pork belly (£9) was equally superb. accompanied by an interesting mushroom mash.
Most importantly, the skin has been turned into some cracking crackling.
FOOD RATING: 3 FOOD VALUE: 3
NEAREST STATION: Cambridge Heath station
FEATURES: real ale, DJ, outdoor seating
Details are correct at the time of publication - please check with venue before booking.
The Marksman Pub is worth a visit. Step through the doors to see just how cosy this place is with its polished wood panelling and soft furnishings. Don't expect anything too trendy, as this is an authentic classic given some love and attention by the owners. The clientele is a healthy mix of old and new - so the new creatives sit next to the old boys in their flat caps. Recently renovated, the pub now offers a small but excellent menu of quality food (have heard the chef came from Rick Stein restaurant). Sunday Roast is packed fromabout 12-9pm; try booking reservations at least a week in advance. Real ales on tap, friendly staff, reasonable prices. This might be one of the last REAL pubs surviving in Shoreditch. The owners, a husband and wife team (one a native Californian?!) obviously work hard at getting the right mix of people in to make this a very comfortable friendly local.
- Caroline Bennett, London UK
