The Steam Passage
Located in the lively heart of Islington at 44–45 Upper Street, London N1 0PN, The Steam Passage is a popular pub that combines traditional British pub culture with a modern, social atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual pint, catching up with friends over food, or watching live sports on the big screens, this venue offers something for everyone.
The first thing you notice when walking into The Steam Passage is its vibrant energy. With exposed brick walls, contemporary furnishings, and plenty of seating, it’s designed to feel welcoming without losing its classic pub charm. Large TV screens ensure sports fans never miss a match, while the spacious layout makes it just as suitable for groups as for solo diners.
The The Steam Passage menu covers a wide range of hearty pub favourites and modern bites. Guests can expect classics like fish and chips, steak and ale pie, and full English breakfasts, all served in generous portions. Burgers are a highlight, with several variations including the signature beef burger, chicken stack, and a popular vegan option made with a plant-based patty. Sharing platters—loaded with wings, nachos, and onion rings—make it an ideal spot for groups looking to graze over drinks.
For those after lighter options, the menu also includes fresh salads, wraps, and small plates. Seasonal specials keep things interesting, while daily deals on food and drinks provide great value, especially for students and young professionals who frequent the area.
The drinks list is another strength. The Steam Passage offers an extensive selection of beers, ciders, spirits, and wines, alongside cocktails that range from classics to contemporary creations. Their rotating draught beer selection appeals to those who enjoy trying something new.
Service is consistently friendly and efficient, even during busy evenings. Staff are quick to recommend food and drink pairings and always ensure orders arrive promptly. The pub’s central location near Angel tube station makes it a convenient meeting spot, which adds to its popularity.
With its lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and dependable service, The Steam Passage stands out as more than just another chain pub. It’s a community hub where good food, drinks, and company come together—making it a reliable choice for locals and visitors alike.
Reviews
Angel £5.45 Amstel A Traditional Upper Street Pub Experience. The Steam Passage is located on the lower end of bustling Upper Street in Islington. The nearest Tube is Angel, it’s a five minute walk to get here. This pub was built in 1843 and was originally called The Star & Garter. The pub was renamed The Champion in 1973 after its licensee, Len Harvey a former champion boxer. He fought 418 contests, winning three British and Empire titles - across three different weights. The pub was renamed again The Passage in 1983 and The Steam Passage in 2016. This is a good size pub that is split level and traditionally decorated. The servery is centrally located and is ‘L’ shaped with a solid wood counter. In the front bar area are a few poser tables, down the right are cosy curved banquettes, at the back is a carpeted area with traditional tables and chairs. Around the walls are a number of framed prints, multiple screens and a mural of Len Harvey. At the front of the pub are tables and chairs overlooking the comings and goings around Upper Street. The beer line up was pretty good and offered four cask ales, a selection of craft options plus familiar favourites. I kept it simple and ordered an Amstel, my pint was on point and cost less than average. There is a comfort food pub grub menu available, Fish & Chips is reasonably priced at £12.99. We arrived around 4pm on a sunny Sunday afternoon on the August bank holiday. The pub was busy with locals and had a nice relaxed atmosphere. There was a good mix of punters from all ages, the footy had a number of punters engaged, a few were dining and the tables were full outside. The service was great, the staff were welcoming and courteous. This pub shows Live Premier League, Live Boxing and host DJ’s at the weekends. The @steampassagetavern was enjoyable no nonsense traditional pub experience. The beer and food are sensibly priced, the welcome was warm and the environment was comfortable. This is an excellent choice for the traditional pub goer. ℹ Info correct on visiting 27.08.23
We when on a girls Day out had some lovey food Dwayne and team was so lovely and really looked after us
Whether you're stopping by for a quick drink or a leisurely dinner, The Steam Passage Pub delivers every time. It’s a great choice for anyone in the mood for delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!
Came in for a couple drinks and food in the early afternoon today and the service I got by Nathan was amazing! He gave good recommendations and we had lovely banter, can't recommend him or the place enough
Just popped in for a summer cider to the steam passage on upper street Islington. The staff were fantastic and advised us on special offers and discounts. Thanks for a fabulous drink.