VIBE

With its faded pearly white and gray paint job, mismatched furnishings, shelves of baroque bric-a-brac, and penchant for distressed wood, The Garrison has that shabby-chic aesthetic that is rare for gastropubs. Though certainly eccentric, the resulting effect is also quite catchy, judging by the coed crowds of young professionals sporting ironic black-framed glasses who pile in after work. The menu gets mixed reviews, although when the kitchen’s got their groove on, foodies wax lyrical.

CROWD

Young and fun. The Garrison draws the local 20- and 30-something sets, as well as a handful of gastropub gourmets.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

It’s really relaxed–we’d wear jeans, boots or flats, and a funky t-shirt or sweater.

GO HERE WITH

A date; friends; girlfriends

WHY WE LIKE IT

This is a good breakfast and brunch pick–while other meals can be hit or miss, The Garrison always gets the morning meal spot-on, and they’ve got a nice buzzy morning vibe.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The occasionally shaky food quality, the sometimes stingy portions, and the often absent service.

GOOD TO KNOW

Reservations can’t be made for drinks, but the downstairs Cinema Room usually has space. Avoid the seats near the open kitchen or you’ll cook alongside the food. A cozy basement Cinema Room plays new releases on Sunday nights and is available for private functions.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Village East (London)

CLOSEST COMPS

Great Queen Street (London)

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