Brixton

Yes, the second floor of this three-level bar looks more like a Downton-era hunting lodge than a real Brixton tavern. And no, the menu offerings of Thai chicken salad and miso-glazed black cod aren’t really authentic either (although, to be fair, rotis and samosas are available too). But don’t let that bother you, because the Brixton’s vibe is charming, with leather stools and wood paneling inside and a spectacular roof terrace. It gets packed to the rafters with college kids late at night so come early for surprisingly good Pimm’s cups, Boddingtons and Newcastle on draft, and Fuller’s London Pride in bottles.