Bars & Pubs

It's years now since this tiny bar on the 'wrong' side of Hoxton Square saw local resident Jarvis Cocker drop in every now and again to do a spot of DJing. But despite numerous makeovers, the place still retains some of its original, low-rent charm. A bar that is barely long enough to accommodate three pairs of elbows dispenses draught Foster's, San Miguel, Kronenberg and Guinness, plus bottled options like Corona and Newcastle Brown Ale to punters who settle in around one of the round, copper-topped tables, on one of two church pews or the sole sofa to warm themselves around the real, open fire. Regency-stripe wallpaper, standard lamps, a large tapestry, potted plants and kitsch reproduction paintings complete the feeling of drinking in an elderly aunt's front parlour. Upstairs, however, the Dining Room serves tasty fare that is far from old-fashioned: pan-fried whole sea bass with ginger, chilli, spring onion and oyster sauce, or sweet potato and peanut massaman curry with jasmine rice.

Time Out Bars, Pubs & Clubs Guide 2008/9