If there was a prize for preserved architecture in pubs Queen's would be well to the fore. Comparatively little has been given to the forces of Mammon in the process of conversion, with wonderful results that display either great foresight or a very tight budget.

But serious money has been spent where it matters, i.e. the kitchen, where the chrome glistens and the chefs labour in full public view producing food that is undemanding and thoroughly satisfying. With house wine at £12 and set lunch at £10 it is hardly surprising that the place is doing very well thank you. Amongst the more down to earth dishes expect to find cheeseburger with chips or bangers and mash.

At the bar a few shell-shocked former regulars take refuge in London Pride and Bombardier, but there is still plenty of room for the new wave that has taken this compellingly attractive place to itself.

Perhaps it's the fact that the Garry Rhodes influence may be at work through Chef Torren Lewis, but many of the omens are there for great success at this welcome addition to the Crouch End scene.