The Punchbowl is one of Mayfair's oldest pubs dating back to the 1700s. It's a traditional pub on a quiet side street with dining upstairs.

The name comes the drink punch that was popular with the military gentlemen back when the pub first opened in Georgian London. The Punchbowl was built on the grounds of Hay Hill Farm, hence the Farm Street address. It is a Grade II listed building and retains many original features.

The pub had a celebrity owner, Guy Ritchie (Madonna's ex), who was often in the bar. He sold it and the whole building has been refurbished by the new owners and reopened late 2014.

As The Punchbowl has been serving good food and wine for so long it's a place worth returning to.

Ground Floor - The Pub

This is no city bar; it's a wood-paneled true British pub, right here in the heart of Mayfair, central London. There are real ales - including their very own Punchbowl 1750 ale - and hearty pub classics such as fish and chips and bangers and mash, as well as game, plus rich desserts. There are bar snacks on offer too which are traditional but with an upmarket twist (pork crackling becomes 'crispy pig'.)

There are bar stools and tables at the front, then banquette booth seating for dining at the back of the bar.

First Floor - Dining Room

The dining room is quite different with a gold painted ceiling and white walls with large contemporary portraits. The menu is all about creative spins on British classics such as Scottish salmon and Tamworth pork.

There's limited choice for a vegetarian but the ravioli is good and was a popular choice.

The menu has been designed by new Head Chef Nathan Andrews and the wine list has been compiled by wine writer Tim Atkin. The winter menu had truffle included in quite a few dishes and a few unusual descriptions - dehydrated parsley, anyone? - but overall was very appealing and clearly appreciated by the locals. The kitchen are using only the best in British and local countryside produce.

The wine list was very well chosen and staff were able to offer excellent advice.

Second Floor - The Club

The top floor has The Club - a space that can be used for private dining and events.

Punchbowl London Contact Details

Address: 41 Farm Street, Mayfair, London W1J 5RP

Telephone: 020 7493 6841

Official Website: www.punchbowllondon.com

As is common in the travel industry, the writer was provided with complimentary services for review purposes. While it has not influenced this review, About.com believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see our Ethics Policy.