Looking like any other Georgian house in illustrious Hampstead, the Wells is a lot more important being as it is something of a godsend for the locals. In an area plastered with chains serving up food found in any number of locations around the UK, the Wells dared to be different in its offering of seasonally sourced food.

Formerly a run down pub no different to any other local, the Wells was bought and refurbished in 2003 by Beth Coventry (sister of critic Fay Maschler), who has previously shaped gastropubs Golborne House and the Prince Bonapart.

Given the esteemed palate of her sister, Ms Coventry was never going to permit sub-standard food to exit her kitchens and the dishes on offer (across all three courses) are top notch. The overwhelmingly popular burger in particular has been keeping some of our friends well insulated for many winters

Another Well in need of a gastropub makeover

It's a great place to grab a Sunday lunch regardless of the time of year as you will be offered produce in season and given ample and hassle free time to enjoy it. It truly is one of the premier relaxing pubs offering great food, drinks and even board games to keep you entertained for hours.

The setting doesn't hurt either with pictures of Anthony Gormley's efforts and paintings by Reg Gadneys (Mr Fay Maschler). Beyond the well groomed walls, Hampstead boasts strange isolation and serenity despite being metres from a traffic jam happily ruining someone's day.

We are big fans of the Wells as a leading gastropub which is a tough category given the huge popularity of them in London, especially West London. Despite the competition, the Wells is definitely a place setting the standard against which lesser pubs will be judged.

http://www.thewellshampstead.co.uk/