Bars & Pubs

As charming as its name and twice as cheerful, Monkey Chews is a little-known, much-loved lounge bar in one of Camden Town's more residential areas. The combination of frosted glass and burly doormen gives no clue to the Chews' gloriously gooey centre. On midweek evenings, its ambient red lighting, low couches and live acoustic acts inspire states of relaxation that border on comatose, although DJs take control at weekends, spinning all manner of funky stuff and turning one cramped corner into an impromptu dancefloor. Leffe and Red Stripe are on tap, cocktails are just £4.75 and there's a good restaurant in the back.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9