Esquire Bar and Grill, Coventry – 42 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Esquire Bar and Grill -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 42 user ratings

817 Old Kent Road, London SE15 1 England

💬 What Students Say

Esquire Bar and Grill, located in South East London, is a vibrant bar and grill that has become a beloved spot for students and locals alike. With over a decade of history, this venue offers a welcoming atmosphere that encourages socializing and enjoying a good night out. The establishment is well-rated for its cleanliness, music selection, and value, making it a reliable choice for a fun evening with friends.

The atmosphere at Esquire Bar and Grill is described as lively and engaging. Students frequently mention the upbeat vibe that permeates the space, making it an ideal spot for unwinding after lectures or kicking off a weekend night. Reviewers appreciate the friendly crowd, which contributes to a sense of community within the venue. Many students find it easy to strike up conversations and meet new people, enhancing the overall experience. The energy is often described as buzzing, with patrons enjoying the laid-back yet lively environment that Esquire fosters.

One of the standout features of Esquire Bar and Grill is its music selection. Many students have highlighted how the music sets the right mood without being overpowering, allowing for conversation while still enjoying a lively backdrop. The DJ is praised for knowing how to keep the crowd engaged, contributing to the venue's reputation as a great place to relax and have fun. The combination of good music and a friendly atmosphere makes it a popular choice for students looking to enjoy a night out.

When it comes to drinks, Esquire Bar and Grill is noted for its reasonable pricing. Students appreciate the affordability of the drinks, with many mentioning that there are often good deals available, particularly on shots. This aspect makes it an attractive option for students who want to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. The bar's commitment to providing value has earned it a high rating for price, making it a go-to venue for budget-conscious students.

Esquire Bar and Grill tends to get busy on weekends, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights. Many students have shared that they often visit on weekends, making it a reliable spot for a fun night out with friends. The venue's popularity means that it can get lively, but the reviews suggest that the queues are usually manageable, allowing for a hassle-free entry. This aspect is particularly appealing for students who want to maximize their time socializing rather than waiting in line.

What makes Esquire Bar and Grill stand out is its blend of a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. It offers a unique charm that resonates well with students looking for a place to hang out and create lasting memories. Reviewers often mention the fun experiences they’ve had at the venue, making it feel like a second home. This sense of belonging and familiarity keeps students coming back week after week, as they know they can rely on Esquire for a good time.

However, it's important to note that Esquire Bar and Grill is not without its downsides. Some students have mentioned that the experience can vary from night to night, with certain evenings feeling more vibrant than others. While many visits are filled with laughter and good energy, there are instances where the atmosphere might not be as lively, which can be disappointing for those expecting a consistently high-energy night. Additionally, while the drinks are reasonably priced, some reviewers noted that it might not be the cheapest option available in the area.

Overall, Esquire Bar and Grill is a fantastic venue for students who enjoy a friendly and lively environment. It suits those looking for a place to unwind, socialize, and have a good time without the pressure of a high-stakes nightlife scene. Whether you're planning a casual night out with friends or a more laid-back evening after classes, Esquire Bar and Grill is a dependable choice that many students have come to love. With its welcoming atmosphere, good music, and fair drink prices, it’s a spot that embodies the spirit of student life in South East London.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and friendly atmosphere, perfect for socializing with friends.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, often with good deals on shots.
  • Good music selection that enhances the vibe without being overpowering.
  • Short queues for entry, making it easy to get in and enjoy the night.
  • A welcoming crowd that encourages meeting new people and making friends.
  • Clean and well-maintained venue, contributing to a pleasant experience.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • The experience can vary from night to night; some evenings may be quieter than others.
  • Not the cheapest option in the area, though still reasonable for students.
  • Can get quite busy on weekends, which may affect the overall experience.
  • Some nights might lack the lively energy that others consistently deliver.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a fun and friendly place to hang out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Check the opening hours, as the venue is closed on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays.
  • Visit on weekends for a livelier atmosphere, especially Friday and Saturday nights.
  • Take advantage of drink deals, particularly on shots, to make the most of your night out.
  • Arrive early to avoid long queues, especially during peak times on weekends.

❓ Common Questions

What is Esquire Bar and Grill like?

Esquire Bar and Grill is a lively bar and grill known for its friendly atmosphere, good music, and reasonable drink prices.

Is it good value?

Yes, the venue is highly rated for its value, with reasonably priced drinks and good deals available.

When do students go to Esquire Bar and Grill?

Students typically visit on weekends, particularly Friday and Saturday nights, for a fun night out.

What type of crowd can I expect?

The crowd is friendly and laid-back, making it easy to socialize and meet new people.

Are there any special events?

While specific events weren't mentioned, the lively atmosphere and good music make every visit enjoyable.

Reviews
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Finding a place with decent wifi and a chill atmosphere is tough, but this place has it sorted. it’s nice to grab a drink and catch up on some work without the usual noise bothering me. plus, the crowd is pretty laid-back, so it’s ideal for winding down after a week of lectures.
By user197785 on Apr 25th 2026
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Noticed the staff always seems to remember faces even when it's busy. it makes you feel like more than just another customer, which is rare these days.
By user157579 on Apr 19th 2026
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Staff were down to earth and knew how to keep things moving smoothly even when it's busy. added bonus was the playlist which had just the right mix of hits and classics.
By user403072 on Apr 13th 2026
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Stumbled upon Esquire during my usual weekend wandering and wasn’t disappointed. what really stood out was how effortlessly everyone seemed to be mingling like it was a big friendly get-together. can't ignore the affordable drinks either, made for a fab night out without even trying.
By user878029 on Apr 11th 2026
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Never had any issues with crowds here, even on busier nights. staff seem to have everything under control, so you’re not left standing around awkwardly waiting. leaves you with more time to just relax and enjoy yourself.
By user361401 on Apr 3rd 2026
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Noticed that even when it's packed, the staff here always find a way to keep things running smoothly. it's like they've mastered the art of crowd control without looking flustered. the music has a way of preventing any awkward silences, which keeps the atmosphere lively.
By user989966 on Apr 1st 2026
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Thought it would just be another generic bar, but it surprised me with its warm vibe and sociable atmosphere. the place has this lively energy that gets everyone chatting and mingling. was expecting something more typical, but esquire feels like a local hangout with a genuine sense of community.
By user960824 on Mar 30th 2026
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Was chatting with a mate about Esquire and mentioned how the crowd is always buzzing and lively, which makes it such a fun place to unwind. also, drinks are pretty affordable there so you're not stressing over your budget while having a good time.
By user931473 on Mar 27th 2026
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Staff here have an uncanny knack for making everyone feel like a regular on their first visit.
By user602295 on Mar 24th 2026
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Went in with pretty low expectations but was genuinely surprised. thought it would just be another noisy student hangout, but it actually had a chilled vibe. the staff were laid-back and didn't make me wait long, which was a relief.
By user959537 on Mar 19th 2026
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Always something going on at esquire, it's become a bit of a second home for me. starting as a quiet place for a few pints, but now i can't imagine my weekends without a visit. really love the mix of locals and students.
By user553181 on Mar 16th 2026
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Felt comfortable and at ease the moment I stepped through the door, like meeting an old friend. the buzz of people chatting and clinking glasses has this unpretentious charm that instantly made it a go-to for catching up and sharing a laugh.
By user671186 on Mar 11th 2026
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Heard from a mate that esquire bar and grill's got this laid-back vibe where you can just hang without feeling cramped. it's one of those places that's perfect for catching up over drinks. swung by last week, felt like everyone knew each other and was up for a laugh.
By user800850 on Mar 9th 2026
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Caught up with some friends here last weekend, and seriously, the energy just sweeps you up. it's crowded, but that just adds to the fun when you're in the mood for it
By user317282 on Mar 8th 2026
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People are always chatting and laughing, which makes the place feel alive and buzzing. it's like everyone knows everyone, or at least wants to get to know everyone , really adds to the atmosphere.
By user542611 on Mar 7th 2026
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Hit its peak on friday nights when everyone's vibing together and the music just clicks , feels like you're part of something bigger.
By user567708 on Mar 6th 2026
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Mate, you know that bar down south, Esquire? perfect for a chill night out with the gang. every time we hit it up, laughs flow as much as the drinks do.
By user128012 on Mar 5th 2026
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Sat at the bar chatting with some folks about uni while enjoying the buzzing energy of the place. felt like everyone was there to just unwind and have a laugh, which was perfect for a laid-back Sunday night after a shift.
By user122805 on Mar 4th 2026
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Esquire's got this rare knack for feeling lively without being chaotic, which you don't find in a lot of places. the crowd's like a friendly bunch that still gives off good energy even when you just want to chill. you end up having conversations you'd never expect, which is more than I can say for most spots around town.
By user314093 on Feb 26th 2026
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Getting drinks here is faster than anywhere else i've tried. staff seem to stay on top of things even when it gets busy.
By user333399 on Feb 10th 2026
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Imagine going to a place where everyone seems like they've been your mate for years. that pretty much sums up esquire bar and grill 😅. i showed up not knowing anyone, and left feeling like part of the crew, it's that kind of place.
By user237571 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Moving up here, i wasn't sure about finding new hangouts, but Esquire quickly became a go-to. at first glance, it looked just like any other pub, but it's the warm vibe and lively chatter that made it feel like home.
By user482901 on Jan 28th 2026
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Location is a bit further out than i’d usually go, but i’d say it’s worth the trek. compared to other spots in london, the service here feels genuinely attentive without being overbearing, which can be rare. the crowd’s a nice mix too so it’s easy to find people to chat with over a drink or two.
By user474070 on Jan 24th 2026
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Settling in here felt natural as the crowd is lively and everyone is easy to chat with. you quickly feel like a regular, which makes coming back almost inevitable.
By user872152 on Jan 20th 2026
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Definitely heading back there. spontaneous vibe that starts slow and just picks up with the right crowd , love that it's easygoing yet electric when you want it to be.
By user104940 on Jan 15th 2026
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Came in a bit confused the first time, but it didn't take long to feel at home with everyone being super chill. it's the sort of place where you ease into things and before you know it, you're chatting with folks like you've always known them. definitely makes settling into london life a whole lot easier.
By user757304 on Jan 12th 2026
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Met a lot of classmates at esquire. it's easy to strike up conversations here, and the vibe's perfect for a laid-back night out.
By user924671 on Jan 8th 2026
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Noticed a mix of students and locals hanging out, making it feel lively yet laid-back. good spot to just enjoy being around others.
By user951175 on Jan 3rd 2026
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Found myself pleasantly surprised by how lively and welcoming the esquire is compared to what i imagined from the outside. especially enjoyed the way the staff genuinely engaged with us, making the whole evening much more enjoyable than i anticipated.
By user910855 on Dec 31st 2025
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Esquire’s got this chill vibe that feels way more genuine than some of the other places trying too hard to be trendy. people actually seem to talk to each other here instead of getting lost in their phones.
By user699123 on Dec 26th 2025
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Esquire Bar and Grill has some of the nicest staff I've met in South East London. they make you feel right at home from the moment you walk in and seem to genuinely love what they do. 😊 it's rare to find such a consistent crew that keeps the atmosphere so lively and welcoming.
By user331916 on Dec 22nd 2025
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Stop by every thursday after lectures, and it just feels like the perfect way to wrap up the week. staff remember most of us by name now, and there's just something nice about having that place where everything feels familiar.
By user567535 on Dec 18th 2025
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Never come across a place that feels as naturally friendly as this.
By user123101 on Dec 13th 2025
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Busiest time fits like a jigsaw puzzle here, everyone buzzing with chatter and laughter. you can tell the place has this contagious energy that makes you want to stay longer. kind of place where you arrive for a quick drink and end up spending the whole evening chatting away.
By user991083 on Dec 9th 2025
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Esquire’s got this buzz that somehow combines cosy and lively perfectly. it’s like everyone’s just having a proper good time without things getting too wild. adds just the right mix of energy and warmth you're after on a night out.
By user356210 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Feels like this place has mastered being lively without being overwhelming, unlike some other pubs where it gets way too intense. nights here strike the perfect balance between chatting with mates and enjoying a decent atmosphere without feeling cramped or pressured.
By user174114 on Nov 29th 2025
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Staff here make you feel at home right from when you walk in, which is a nice touch when you're just trying to unwind. music's spot on, too, which definitely adds to the place's charm. it's the kind of spot where you can relax while still feeling you're part of a buzzing scene.
By user687451 on Nov 25th 2025
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Walked in expecting the usual bar vibes, but was caught off guard by how genuinely easy it was to chat with people.
By user709739 on Nov 19th 2025
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Noticed a good mix of students and locals, all looking like they're having a proper laugh. people around seemed friendly, not too rowdy, just enjoying a chill night out. it felt easy to join in whether you came alone or in a group.
By user646252 on Nov 13th 2025
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Esquire's got this low-key warmth that somehow makes everyone feel like part of the family.
By user301654 on Nov 4th 2025
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Definitely worth a visit if you're in south east london. it’s lively and people are always up for having a laugh.
By user492242 on Oct 30th 2025
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By user718762 on Aug 21st 2024