The Monkey Puzzle — Restaurant in London

The Monkey Puzzle Pub in Sussex Gardens, London (U.K.) is a beloved and well-regarded establishment. With a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, represented by Darren, Alice and their team, always welcoming and serving everyone with a warm smile. With a great selection of beers and ales, the pub is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. During Winters, I always feel thirsty for Frusty Ferret Amber Ale, as an instant Winter Warmer drink (my favourite and a rare Amber Ale, not commonly available in ordinary Pubs around London). During Summers I opt for a Cold and refreshing Lager Beer, from their wide selection of lagers. The food is delicious, with the Sunday Roast being a particular standout. The pub's location near Paddington Station makes it easily accessible, and the nearby Bed & Breakfast options make it a convenient destination for travellers from around the world. Making the Pub a “True Global Melting Pot of Multi-Cultures”. The pub holds special memories for the writer, who has been a regular customer for decades and has shared many fond times with friends there. The owner, Gary, is described as being modest and humble, and is known to personally serve guests and tend to the pub himself. If ever he spots anyone among our group with a grumpy face, he joins in with his great sense of humour, makes us all change our moods with smiles and laughter. The writer wishes the pub continued success in the future © Ash-Cash...

I LOVED this place. Went twice whilst visiting London. The staff was great. The outdoor patio (with the eponymous monkey puzzle tree) was absolutely delightful (indoors fine, nothing to write home (or on Google) about). The beer selection (especially cask-conditioned) was fab. Yet, I gave The Monkey Puzzle 4 stars overall and for food. Why? Their fish and chips were OUTSTANDING. A large fillet of moist whitefish masterfully breaded and fried to perfection, served piping hot. PERFECTLY-browned fries. The prototypical portion of mashed peas. All unbelievable. But the tarter sauce? Not a house-made dill-laced delectable dollop, not even a passable bottled tarter sauce from some mega manufacturer. No. What, then? Believe it or not, they provide those little 1 x 3 inch packets of tarter sauce (that are hard to open and dribble over fish, if you're so inclined), devoid of flavor or nuance or . . . anything. (Catsup in same packets too BTW.) UGH! Using that tarter sauce is like splashing paint on the Mona Lisa, or chiseling the nose off the David. Inexplicable. But don't let me dissuade you -- go and order something else, or bring your own tarter sauce, and if they remedy this single but essential faux pas, it'll be five stars...

Highly recommend‼️

A Paddington Gem - If you’re near Paddington, don’t miss it!

It’s clear the owner has poured their heart into this place. With its welcoming vibe and amazing friendly service, The Monkey Puzzle is the perfect spot for families, friends, or solo visitors.

Just a quick walk from Paddington Station, The Monkey Puzzle is a true find. From the moment I walked in, the warmth and friendliness of the staff made me feel at welcomed.

Daren, was a genuine, easygoing and charming that had elevated my entire experience.

The food was spot-on! 🥩🦐 I had a medium-well steak that came perfectly cooked, with golden fries, fresh salad, and crispy onion rings.

The prawns were impressively fresh, and even the chips had that perfect crispy-outside, fluffy-inside balance. The salad dressing added a nice touch, making everything feel light and flavorful.

It wasn’t my first time passing by this place and it had always exceeded expectations to be one of the top local...