The Dogstar

Tatty, aged & much loved, this longstanding watering hole & venue (run by the Antic group) continues to pack-in the crowds. These days, the chandeliers, leather sofas & dark corners might seem more haunted-house than cosy gastropub, but The Dogstar is nevertheless a popular spot for an early evening lager. Fast-forward a few hours & the place is usually so full that decor is almost irrelevant. Check the listings for regular events – Tuesday or Wednesday might be comedy night, but come Friday expect electro, indie, hip-hop & dubstep until 4am. The kitchen is open late, though service is unlikely to be trouble-free if you eat on busier nights. During calmer periods, there’s ample time to pick from the pithy pizza menu (where a 12-inch quattro formaggi costs just £7.50).