Reviews for The Boot

Scrumptious, snug pub bang in the centre of St Albans

The Boot is bang in the centre of bustling St Albans, facing the historic clock tower. We went for lunch having had a look at the menu online and been surprised by the great sounding choices. It has got bags of character (real fire, low ceilings, traditional bar area, lots of tasteful BandW pictures of musicians such as the Beatles on the walls) and seems to appeal to a wide variety of people. From peace-seeking gents sitting having a pint and reading the paper to young and retired couples. The atmosphere and menu make it a good choice for lunch or dinner. There is a daily specials board, regular menu and a soup and sandwich (choice of two) option for just £5 which looked a bargain. I had the smoked haddock with a Welsh rarebit topping on mash with a light and creamy chive sauce (from the specials board) and my husband had the fish pie. Both were freshly made and served with green beans, cauliflower and broccoli (I'm a veg fanatic and can't deal with meal without quality greens). We thought it represented great value for money. The two staff we talked to were friendly, attentive and genuinely keen to know that we were enjoying our meals. I made a passing comment about not having been in for years because I didn’t think they allowed children and was surprised to learn they do and will do smaller portions for them. We’ll be back soon for Sunday lunch with our children. [Feb 13]

Warm and comforting

Not many pubs are better on the inside than out, but the Boot is. Good range of well-kept beers, fast and efficient service, and a range of food and snacks. Various music offerings at certain times of the week. As more and more pubs in St Albans turn into cafés or restaurants, this is a welcome, quality drinking establishment. [Aug 11]

Good open mic night twice a month

We stumbled across a fun, unpretentious open mic night in the Boot last night (held 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month). We enjoyed the music with a few pints from a well stocked bar of guest ales and ciders. A cracking town centre pub, but be careful if you're tall, the 16th century ceiling isn't. [Nov 09]

local atmosphere and free cheese and biscuits!

A cosy pub with a traditional feel right next to the clock tower. A big smile from the bar person when we walked in. I had Adnams Explorer which was good. We had a cosy spot with a large armchair, marred slightly by being under the speaker, but we could have moved I guess! There was cheese and biscuits laid out for us to help ourselves which was a lovely touch. I notice they are doing an organic soup kitchen in the day, which sounds great. [Apr 09]