Last Updated on October 6, 2025
The Salusbury Queens Park: Classic London Pub with Michelin-Star Inspired Dining
4.5 out of 5.0 stars
Queen’s Park has long boasted a clutch of proper locals, but few carry the fond memories and weekend clatter of The Salusbury. Now reopened under the stewardship of Gareth Cooper, Alex Payne, and Jon Drape, the pub has been reimagined with a deft blend of restaurant polish, bar energy, and unpretentious pub soul.
Executive Chef Tarryn Bingle brings a quietly assured culinary touch, honed in the Michelin-starred kitchen of La Trompette, while the refurbished interiors – olive-green banquettes, leather booths, pale plaster panel walls, and hand-stitched napkins- manage to feel both sophisticated and welcoming. The design, overseen by Natasha Hidvigi Design, adds subtle flourishes that make the space feel both sophisticated and welcoming.
There’s a confident French-bistro elegance here without losing the beat of a proper local, and a soundtrack courtesy of vintage Tannoy speakers ensures the pub’s heart still hums to its own tune. Inside, the layout cleverly balances pub and restaurant life: a proper drinkers’ bar on one side, the dining room on the other, and a bar tucked neatly at the rear, creating an intimate dining experience.
The restaurant was buzzing the evening we visited, a happy hum of conversation underscoring the sense of occasion. My friend, in the mood for a beer, was impressed by the craft selection and settled on a nostalgically old-school Double Diamond ale. I, on the other hand, opted for a vodka martini, served in a delicate, gleaming glass that struck just the right note – a crisp, stylish start to our meal. Although the Hugo Spritz and a seasonal Fig Leaf Daiquiri also sounded tempting.
For the table, we were highly recommended the homemade rosemary focaccia, with the herb sourced straight from the chef’s mum’s garden. It was extraordinarily good – moist, flavoursome, with the rosemary shining through beautifully. We also tried the Parmesan churros, indulgent, I know, but these crisp, delicate fingers were as light as a feather and utterly delicious.
The starters were equally impressive. We particularly loved the chicken liver parfait, served with a chunky slice of toasted brioche and a delightfully sweet apple chutney. Creamy and smooth, almost mousse-like, it oozed flavour.
The cured sea bream was another highlight, dressed in a light, subtle elderflower jus, with slivers of apricot and a hint of jalapeño giving it a gentle, lively kick.
To accompany our meal, we chose a bottle of Gavi di Gavi, Terre Antiche, Piemonte, Italy 2023. Its delicate lemon-yellow hue was matched by a fragrant nose of lime zest, crisp with a lively zip and mineral finish.
The mains offered a little something for everyone. The Côte de Bœuf for two looked magnificent, and the Herdwick lamb was tempting, but I opted for the Somerset Saxon chicken. It arrived with soft parcels of gnocchi, the sweetest pockets of corn, juicy autumnal girolles, and vibrant greenage – rich, seasonal, and full of flavour. My companion chose the roasted cod, prettily presented – served with Jersey Royal potatoes, wonderfully sweet, plump mussels, tender leeks, and a lightly cidery jus – a beautifully composed, perfectly balanced dish.
Meanwhile, at the neighbouring table, diners were tucking into the most striking soufflé – a real conversation starter. Naturally, we asked how it was, and one guest squealed with delight, declaring it “the lightest thing on earth.” When the time came, we followed suit. The heavenly banana crumble soufflé arrived every bit as enticing as it looked, paired with a scoop of rum-and-raisin ice cream. It was divine: delicately airy, incredibly light, with a gorgeous crumble crunch on top. The salted caramel tart was equally impressive, a masterclass in fine pâtisserie – the thin, crisp pastry held its texture perfectly, while the smooth, moreish caramel filling proved utterly irresistible.
All in all, The Salusbury is a rare gem, a proper local with a big-hearted soul, elevated by thoughtful, polished dining and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re popping in for a pint, lingering over a leisurely meal, or indulging in one of those show-stopping desserts, it feels like a place that effortlessly balances sophistication with comfort. Queen’s Park is lucky to have it back, and it’s easy to see why this reimagined classic is already creating fond new memories for locals and visitors alike.
50-52 Salusbury Rd,
Queens Park
London
NW6 6NN
020 7328 3286
https://www.thesalusbury.co.uk
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