The more refined side of British booze culture is reflected at this UES gastropub, helmed by veterans of Orsay and Raines Law Room. Retire to the main dining room—featuring a wraparound button-tufted banquette, caged Edison lightbulbs and dozens of volumes of Shakespeare—for a full menu of soups, savory pies (steak and kidney, rosemary lamb) and mains, including Lancashire hot pot and bangers and mash. Come spring, the dressed-up tavern will offer afternoon tea service—complete with scones, seasonal jam and clotted cream—in the building's garden atrium.
The vibe: Comfy/cozy like an old cable-knit sweater or pair of slippers.
The food: Delicious, well-realized Brit-centric favorites.
The drink: No liquor, but a huge tap selection and a rotation of hand-pumped cask ales.
Time Out tip: If you’re a footie fan, this is an excellent spot to get in the spirit. It’s a pub, yes, but it’s really more about the food and this is a really charming place for casual lunch or dinner. Daily specials are fun and include England’s national dish–Chicken Tikka Masala–on Mondays, but as far as I’m concerned, Saturday/Sunday Roast is the move.