Princess Louise

Let's be real: it's a Sam Smiths pub, which formerly signified excellent value but now indicates only middling value, along with bearable beverages. But let's talk instead of old Louise's ground-floor saloon, which is truly, incredibly, spectacularly ornate: a warren of Victorian frosted-glass booths, each with direct access to the bar; mirrors; buffed wood panelling; a fire; and all the other decorative touches you'd ever care to appreciate.

Trying to rendezvous with a drinking companion amid the nooks and crannies can prove a bit of a challenge, although it does mean you'll inevitably have the chance to explore properly. (There's a simpler, larger room upstairs, but where's the fun in drinking there?) A preponderance of stools and bright lighting give the Princess a post-work rather than pre-night-out vibe, but much like breakfast, there's no reason not to make your first pint of the day the most important one.