The King & Co in Brixton

Ah, The King & Co – it's one of those hidden gems in Clapham that I've grown quite fond of chatting about with mates. Tucked away from the hustle, it's got this warm, eclectic charm that makes you feel right at home, whether you're nipping in for a quick pint or settling in for one of their brilliant pop-up food events. The drinks are a winner, especially with those £5 pints on offer during the week – it's such a treat to grab a London Pilsner or a crisp cider without breaking the bank. And the food? Well, it's mostly spot-on; Chef Zana's Jamaican and Antiguan influences shine through in dishes packed with passion and flavour, and the Indian or Japanese residencies have folks raving about tender curries and delicious karaage. They've got a knack for creating a relaxed environment too, with outdoor seating for sunny days and acoustic nights that add a nice touch of entertainment. But, let's be honest, it's not all perfect – I've heard a few stories of stale sides or overripe bits throwing off an otherwise great meal, and there was that one time someone mentioned tummy issues after a fabulous feast, which is never ideal. Service can be hit or miss; they're usually attentive and flexible, like when they catered to a family's needs, but sometimes they don't pop over to check if everything's alright, leaving you to flag it down. Overall, though, it's a solid spot for a good night out – just go in with an open mind, and you'll likely have a cracking time.