292 St John St, London EC1V 4PA

About This Pub

You know, when I think about Dame Alice Owen, it's one of those pubs that just feels like a proper local in the heart of London – right on St John Street, with its tiles catching the sunlight and a tree-lined square nearby. I've heard from folks who've been there that the pizza is a highlight, especially the Margherita, which pairs brilliantly with their mulled wine on a chilly evening or a cold beer out on the terrace. The atmosphere is spot on for a fun night out, with that old-school pub charm and plenty of space inside and out, making it a top pick for catching up with mates or even hosting a birthday bash. They've got the team to handle it all, with staff who are dead helpful and a wine list that's always got something new to try. But, let's be honest, it does have its downsides – it can turn into a proper hubbub, which is great if you're up for it, but not ideal for a quiet drink. And while most of the food hits the mark, there have been a few grumbles about portions not quite matching the hype, so maybe it's best to go for the crowd-pleasers. All in all, it's a solid spot for a bite and a bevvy, and I'd say it's worth a visit if you're in the area, just keep an eye on the timings to avoid any disappointments.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The pizza is absolutely spot on – their Margherita is a real standout, with fresh flavours that hit the spot every time.
  • It's got a cracking atmosphere, lively and welcoming, with a mix of indoor and outdoor seating that's perfect for soaking up the sun or warming up by the fireplace in winter.
  • The staff are genuinely friendly and attentive, making you feel right at home from the moment you walk in.
  • They've got a great selection of real ales and wines, bought in small batches to keep things interesting and fresh.
  • As a historic spot dating back to 1809, it has that authentic pub charm and a community vibe, ideal for groups or parties.
Cons
  • It can get a bit noisy and buzzy, especially if you're after a more relaxed chat over a pint.
  • Some dishes might not quite deliver, like the aubergine pizza that didn't have as much topping as you'd hope.
  • Finding a seat or even the place itself can be a challenge during busy times, so it's worth planning ahead.
  • The hours are a tad limited, with pizza only available at specific times, which might not suit everyone.

Contact Information

292 St John St, London EC1V 4PA
+442078332160
Pub
Closed today

Opening Hours

Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 23:00
SaturdayClosed
Sunday (Today)Closed

Location

Recent Reviews

Gotta start the review with pizza. Their Margherita pizza is just amazing. During winter there is a fire place inside and setting beside it reminds of old days. I also like their mulled wine which they keep during winters. Options for both outdoor as well as indoor seating. Can get difficult to find place during peak hours.
HK
Hussain Kagzi
Buzzy pub, seems like a student hang out, nice atmosphere, quite loud. It was great to see a couple of real ales. We had aubergine pizza, but there wasn't much aubergine to be seen. However, stracciatella was lovely. The staff were really nice, friendly and attentive. We'll go again.
TS
Tim Sayer
Nice lively pub. Good vibe. Had Brixton on tap. They do pizza here - looked and smelled good. RECOMMEND.
TY
Tarun Yadav
🚇 Angel 🍺 £6.70 Cruzcampo The Dame Alice Owen is located in Clerkenwell close to Sadler's Wells Theatre and Exmouth Market. The nearest Tube is Angel. This pub was established in 1809 and rebuilt in 1924. This pub started life as The New Red Lion, in the last twenty years this pub has had a number of names, The Bull in 2000, The Queen Boadicea in 2006, The Blacksmith and the Toffeemaker in 2012 and after a period of closure The Dame Alice Owen since 2019. Dame Alice Owen born 1547 was a local philanthropist. The exterior of this large one bar pub is clad in gorgeous glazed tiles. Inside, the pub is bright and airy due to the large windows. The servery is located down the left-hand side and has an original back bar with Watney’s signage. The decor is traditional with a few contemporary touches. There are some lovely features throughout the main bar like the terracotta tiled floor, an ole’ Joanna and more of those gorgeous tiles. Just off the main bar is an adjoining room with contemporary artwork, a nice fireplace and an open kitchen. At the front of the pub is a partially covered outside space with lots of benches. The beer selection will please most and offers mainstream brews and cask ale. I decided on a Cruzcampo, my pint was great, price point was above average. The food menu is Pizza, there are ten to choose from, most large Pizzas cost around £13. I arrived just after 4pm on a rainy Friday afternoon in April. The pub was busy with an upbeat atmosphere and a predominantly younger clientele, probably from City University London which is close by. I had a nice chat with the Guv’nor who was the consumate host, I also met the Guv’nor of @theladymildmaypub , both were sampling some new wines which their pubs were introducing. Great to see this pub on a firm footing after a number of years of turmoil. Visiting the @damealiceowen was a pleasant experience, I loved the exterior tiles and the welcoming atmosphere, the beer was a bit pricey and the hospitality first class. This pub is only open Monday to Friday, so why not take a cheeky afternoon off and pay it a visit. 📅 19th April 2024 More London Pub info @londonpubmap 🍻
LP
London Pub Map
A community heart of a pub, confident & purposeful in its contribution to society. A vast corner plot on an open, village centre like square. Ample outside seating under the trees on quiet residential streets. The grand open drinking hall features great glass windows that brighten the inside with natural light. Original pattern papered ceiling dress beautiful, original half tiled walls over a clay tiled floor. Plenty of scattered tables & chairs surround a large, long bar, with mirrored back. It's a clear, uncluttered social meeting place with a good selection of draught & the best service I've experienced in a pub for too long. Confident, focussed & friendly vibe to fit the groups of friends. There's a well loved feel to the team & space, it's kept clean, tidy & well under control. A sociable centre of a community which contributes exactly what is required, with more on top.
AC
Alex Conkleton

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