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The Clarence
★ 4.0(1 review)Bar
cosydarklively
About the Vibe
The Clarence on Dover Street is Nicholson’s heritage-pub experiment done right: a Mayfair tavern that’s been spruced up without losing its pub soul. You’ll find dark, moody interiors, a lively bar scene, and a menu that balances British classics like beef Wellington and fish & chips with smarter pub fare like the chorizo and wild boar burger. It’s one of the few places in central London where you can still get a proper pint alongside boutique gins and a solid wine list, including that Hampshire sparkler from Jenkyn Place.
Known For
- •beef Wellington
- •fish and chips
- •chorizo and wild boar burger
- •hand-pulled UK ales
Best For
group dinnersafter-work drinksSunday roast
1 review
City InsidersEditorialApril 12, 2026
A Heritage Pub Done Right
The Clarence manages to straddle the line between tourist trap and local favourite, which is no small feat in Mayfair. Step inside and you’re greeted by a dark, moody atmosphere that feels more like a traditional London pub than a polished restaurant. The upstairs dining room is perfect for a proper sit-down meal—order the beef Wellington if you’re feeling indulgent, or stick to the classics like fish and chips. The bar area gets lively in the evenings, and the selection of hand-pulled ales and boutique gins keeps things interesting for those who want something beyond the usual pub fare.
What sets The Clarence apart is its commitment to quality without pretension. You’ll find matchboxes everywhere (a nice nod to tradition), and the staff seem genuinely proud of what they serve. It’s not the cheapest spot in London, but for the quality of food and drink, it’s fair value. The only downside is that it can get very crowded, especially on weekends, so arrive early if you want a table.