Champagne Charlies

Part of the dependable Davy’s stable, this sprawling basement bar in the arches beneath Charing Cross station features the group’s signature styling with sawdust floors, wood panelling, exposed brick & antiquarian knick-knacks. As the name suggests, there’s a range of fizz on the wine list – from reasonably priced Davy’s Célébration NV to Roederer’s Cristal at £195 – alongside interesting international reds & whites, bolstered by quality own-label bottles. Ports, sherries & Madeira feature too, while draft ales such as Old Wallop will please beer buffs. A revamped menu emphasises classic British dishes: think fennel & sea salt-crusted pork belly with apple & fennel slaw, hand-carved Alderton ham with buttery new potatoes & homemade piccalilli or bangers & mash with onion gravy. Cooking doesn’t disappoint & swift service keeps local workers happy. ‘A cosy, reliable spot,’ concludes one reader.