84-86 Essex Rd, London N1 8LU

About This Pub

Oh, you know, when I think about The Alpaca, it just brings a smile – it's one of those independent pubs in Islington that really gets the community spirit right, with a focus on top-notch food and drink that keeps folks coming back. I love how they've got these incredible Sunday roasts and sharing platters that are perfect for a lazy afternoon with mates, and the staff are just lovely, always making sure you're looked after, whether it's for a quiet drink midweek or a lively evening with music you don't hear everywhere else. It's super inclusive too, catering to all sorts, including those with furry friends, and they've nailed the private hire for events like baby showers, based on what I've heard. On the flip side, though, it can hit the wallet a bit if you're not careful – one chap spent a fair bit over hours there – and while the food's solid, it might not feel groundbreaking for some, more your reliable standard fare. All in all, it's a gem for a relaxed catch-up or celebration, but I'd say go in with realistic expectations and you'll have a cracking time.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The food is absolutely brilliant, especially those Sunday roasts – the lamb and other dishes like aubergine and burrata are real highlights and always cooked to perfection.
  • The staff are so warm and welcoming; they make you feel right at home, whether you're popping in for a quick pint or staying for hours.
  • It's a fantastic spot for groups or events, with a great atmosphere, live music on weekends, and even dog-friendly vibes that add to the relaxed feel.
  • They've got a cracking selection of beers, cocktails, wines, and non-alcoholic options, making it inclusive for everyone, from solo visitors to big gatherings.
Cons
  • It can get a bit pricey if you end up staying for a long session, as one person mentioned after an eight-hour visit – worth keeping an eye on the bill.
  • Some of the dishes, like the Sunday roast, might come across as fairly standard rather than mind-blowingly unique, so it won't wow everyone.

Contact Information

84-86 Essex Rd, London N1 8LU
+442034177224
Pub
Opens at 12:00

Opening Hours

Monday16:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday (Today)12:00 - 00:00
Friday12:00 - 01:00
Saturday12:00 - 01:00
Sunday12:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Absolutely wonderful pub, definitely recommend for a Sunday roast. The lamb was incredible. The staff are so lovely and very dog-friendly. The aubergine and burrata were also amazing snacks. We spent a lot but we were also there for 8 hours 😂
KF
Katie Fewster
Went to the Alpaca on Valentine's Day. Everything was absolutely perfect... the service, the atmosphere, the jazz trio, and the food (so delish). Couldn't ask for better. If you haven't been, you should definitely check out this fabulous pub!
W
Wendy
We hired out the Alpaca’s function room for a baby shower and we could not have been more happy with the space and the service! Agatha was our bartender / support staff and she was so kind and involved that a lot of people thought she was a guest at the party :) The space itself is great, with a bar in the hire room and the women’s toilet on the same floor as the room - plus plenty of space and a TV! The food we ordered was also fantastic. It is a little pricier than other for hire rooms we’ve used, but you definitely get great quality everything for what you pay for.
HF
Heather Farr Edwards
A very standard Sunday roast, we tried both beef and lamb shoulders. Easy place to book for a large group of 10
AC
Alexandra Chung
This public house is the perfect place to spend hours relaxing in one of their comfy spaces, enjoying drinks and good food. We spent a great part of our Saturday afternoon here, and it was a very soothing and enjoyable moment. The staff is very nice and friendly, and makes you feel like home. Thanks Update : we had beef Sunday roast and it was delicious, the meat was perfect ! Definitely one of our best pub in Islington
CP
Christophe PFERTZEL

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