44, 45 Upper St, London N1 0PN

About This Pub

Ah, The Steam Passage – it's one of those reliable old pubs in Islington that just feels like a proper local spot, you know? I love how the staff go out of their way to make you feel welcome, chatting about specials and ensuring you've got the best pint possible; it's those little touches that really make a visit memorable. The place has this intimate, cosy feel that's spot on for watching the footie or rugby with your mates, and they've got a solid lineup of drinks and food that hits the mark for a traditional pub experience. It's conveniently placed near Angel, and being dog-friendly adds a nice community vibe. On the flip side, though, I've heard a few tales of service not quite living up to expectations, like one person mentioning the food and staff weren't as impressive as hoped, which is a shame because it could put a damper on things. Plus, that rule about no kids after 7pm might rule it out for family outings that stretch into the evening. All in all, it's a solid choice for a laid-back catch-up, but go in with realistic expectations and you'll likely have a cracking time.

Pros and Cons

Pros
  • The staff are absolutely brilliant – always friendly and quick to recommend specials or discounts, making you feel right at home.
  • It's got a lovely, intimate vibe, perfect for catching up with mates over a pint, especially when the big sports events are on like the Premier League or rugby.
  • They've a cracking selection of drinks, including those top-notch Cask Marque accredited ales, and the food menu looks spot on for a proper pub grub experience.
  • Super convenient spot in Islington, just a short walk from Angel tube, with handy features like being dog-friendly and having accessible facilities.
  • The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, ideal for a relaxed afternoon or a lively evening out.
Cons
  • Some folks have had mixed experiences with the service and food – it wasn't up to scratch for everyone, which is a bit disappointing if you're after a flawless meal.
  • There's a strict no-kids policy after 7pm, even outside, so it might not be the best choice if you're planning a family get-together that runs late.
  • The pub's charm is traditional, but that means it could feel a tad outdated for those seeking something more modern or trendy.

Contact Information

44, 45 Upper St, London N1 0PN
+442072265882
Pub
Opens at 11:00

Opening Hours

Monday11:00 - 23:00
Tuesday11:00 - 23:00
Wednesday11:00 - 23:00
Thursday (Today)11:00 - 23:00
Friday11:00 - 01:00
Saturday11:00 - 01:00
Sunday11:00 - 23:00

Location

Recent Reviews

Just popped in for a summer cider to the steam passage on upper street Islington. The staff were fantastic and advised us on special offers and discounts. Thanks for a fabulous drink.
PM
paul Martin
The Steam Passage Tavern is a nice 10 or so minute walk from where I work. It's a nice pub with a lovely intimate feel about it. Staff are nice, and it's a vibrant place to relax. I can imagine this would be brilliant when the football / sport is on or a Friday / Saturday night.
TS
The South East Londoner
I came here today Saturday 10th may with 3 of my friends, I haven't been here for a few years and I wasn't impressed. The pub ot self is very nice we loved it !!! Unfortunately can't say the same about the staff or food. We got there about 12.30 got our drinks. About 1.30 we went up to bar to order, there was a white lady messageing on her phone while 3 of us were waiting to be served, the other lady was black very nice lady, she said to the woman people are waiting, she then continued to be messaging on her phone, then cane over to the till and said what do you want. We was shocked has we all work in retail in Oxford street and would never speak to customers like that, even thou it is a different job it's still about customer service and giving your best !!! Anyways we ordered our food when it came most of the food was cold and one of my friend had a toasties which was hard as rock she took this to the bar and told the white lady....she asked for another one and her reply was they are all like that I had it and mine was the same. She said there was something wrong with the toaster. So my friend said she would order something else, the black lady came over very nice and polite and apologised and retook her order. Clearly the white lady with long dark hair either don't like her job or she was having a bad day but she needs to remember she works serving the public and needs to be polite and maybe try and smile while doing her job !!! We all said she clearly don't like her job !!! We Unfortunately will not be returning!!!
TS
Tina Smith
We when on a girls Day out had some lovey food Dwayne and team was so lovely and really looked after us
KS
Kerri Stamford
🚇 Angel 🍺 £5.45 Amstel A Traditional Upper Street Pub Experience. The Steam Passage is located on the lower end of bustling Upper Street in Islington. The nearest Tube is Angel, it’s a five minute walk to get here. This pub was built in 1843 and was originally called The Star & Garter. The pub was renamed The Champion in 1973 after its licensee, Len Harvey a former champion boxer. He fought 418 contests, winning three British and Empire titles - across three different weights. The pub was renamed again The Passage in 1983 and The Steam Passage in 2016. This is a good size pub that is split level and traditionally decorated. The servery is centrally located and is ‘L’ shaped with a solid wood counter. In the front bar area are a few poser tables, down the right are cosy curved banquettes, at the back is a carpeted area with traditional tables and chairs. Around the walls are a number of framed prints, multiple screens and a mural of Len Harvey. At the front of the pub are tables and chairs overlooking the comings and goings around Upper Street. The beer line up was pretty good and offered four cask ales, a selection of craft options plus familiar favourites. I kept it simple and ordered an Amstel, my pint was on point and cost less than average. There is a comfort food pub grub menu available, Fish & Chips is reasonably priced at £12.99. We arrived around 4pm on a sunny Sunday afternoon on the August bank holiday. The pub was busy with locals and had a nice relaxed atmosphere. There was a good mix of punters from all ages, the footy had a number of punters engaged, a few were dining and the tables were full outside. The service was great, the staff were welcoming and courteous. This pub shows Live Premier League, Live Boxing and host DJ’s at the weekends. The @steampassagetavern was enjoyable no nonsense traditional pub experience. The beer and food are sensibly priced, the welcome was warm and the environment was comfortable. This is an excellent choice for the traditional pub goer. ℹ️ Info correct on visiting 27.08.23
LP
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