London Hotel & Restaurant

We came in with high expectations because this pub was voted best pub food in smh. So my ratings are probably skewed by the higher expectations.
The pub is nicely situated at the quieter part of Balmain (means it’s easier to find parking!). We had a nice stroll around the old neighbourhood before we had dinner. You can see fantastic views of the harbour bridge from the back streets next to this pub.
We couldn’t find a seat at the bar area so we went straight into the posh looking restaurant. The service was courteous and prompt but the food took a long while to arrive due to a function upstairs.
I’ve finished half my wine by the time we finally got our food. The lamb rump was sensational. Very well balanced sauce (with chunks of macadamia mixed in) on the nicely cooked lamb. The perfect medium rare lamb rump. My order was a medium rare tenderloin. They stuffed up the order the first time (over-​cooked my steak) but got it right the second time. I would rate the steak as good but not fantastic. I think all the media attention has set my expectations way too high.
All in all, it’s one of the better pubs in Balmain for good food and a good selection of wine. Check out the nearby exchange hotel if you want somewhere with great ambience.

Walked in and felt very uncomfortable so we left. Full of pretty drunk looking locals.

Best steak I have ever had. The bar would be perfect with a more comfortable setting (couches etc) — for a night out with friends it is not my first choice but if there is eating involved it is always my favourite.

The London Hotel is a classic Balmain pub located on Darling street. It may not be the oldest pub around, or the most fashion forward, but there are definitely some features that make it noteworthy.
I dipped in one sunny Saturday afternoon in search of something to quench my thirst (and tame the headache induced the night before). I grabbed a Little Creatures bright ale, one of the many on draft, and nabbed a stool on the veranda. With breathtaking views of the city and the iconic bridge popping out of the cityscape, it’s easily one of the best views around. And what’s more? You don’t even have to leave your dog at home. The London allows pooches inside, and perhaps pets of all varieties. If you’re so inclined to take your goldfish for a walk, I don’t suppose the bar staff would protest.
With pool tables, an awesome venue space for hire upstairs and a higher-​end steakhouse connected, there’s a little something for everyone at the London Hotel.