Dogstar, Brixton, SW9

Tris C left this review about Dogstar

Dating from 1866 and with the name ‘Atlantic’ picked out in red to the parapet a clear indication that this was once the Atlantic Hotel, this pub is situated at the junction of Atlantic Road and Coldharbour Lane, the sound of competing boom boxes and whiff of jazz cabbage leaving the intrepid casketeer in no doubt that this is Brixton Central; a couple of shady characters, faces covered, lurked in a neighbouring side street.
Antic-fied, aside from the obligatory gold topped capitals to structural columns, there’s nothing of heritage in here. The floor is modern boarded, walls a mix of deep purple Anaglypta or grey field panelled – each panel sporting a framed print – with a bottle green ceiling. Furniture comprises some velour banquettes, then some extremely utilitarian bench seating with trestle tables. To one side is a DJ pulpit and on high, is an enormous mirror ball, the stygian gloom barely penetrated by several mixed, tiny crystal chandeliers, most illumination coming from two projector screens broadcasting foreign footie with commentary at volume, appreciated by a young studenty crowd (see photo).
With four unclipped pumps draped with a ‘Coming Soon’ sign, I doubt there was any hope of cask making a comeback, me making do with a half of Hepcat Session IPA at £3.40, served by a decent barmaid.
This isn’t really what I’d call a pub anymore, but the area’s yoof seem to like it.

On 10^th May 2024 - rating: 3
[User has posted 2005 recommendations about 1971 pubs]