Bars & Pubs

Formerly one old-school Irish pub, the Kilburn is now split into an unequal two. The more generous portion is devoted to an American-style diner-cum-bar, with red leather booth seating and quotes from Hank Williams on the walls. Diner menus decorated with disconcerting skulls offer a range of cocktails for a fiver and decent burgers. This is not the place for real ale drinkers (John Smith's is the sole on-tap offering) but the lively young crowd - who later bound upstairs to the award-winning Luminaire music venue - really couldn't care less. The smaller side is now called McGoverns and resembles an upholstered Irish betting shop, with horse racing on fuzzy TVs and a very male clientele. Both bars are served food by the same kitchen.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9