The Cumberland Arms

With Timothy Taylor & the like on pump, chalked-up menus & a good global wine list with plenty of choice by the glass, this proper boozer attracts thirsty & hungry folk alike – of which there is no shortage in a neighbourhood just a stone’s throw from the exhibition halls of Olympia. The classic gastropub look of purposefully mismatched scruffiness seems more genuine here than elsewhere, as is the friendly but businesslike attitude of the staff. The daily changing menu includes easy-on-the-tastebuds favourites such as goats’ cheese bruschetta with grilled courgette & red onion, penne with wild mushroom, basil, cream & parmesan, & pan-roast duck breast with smashed parsnip & celeriac & red-onion marmalade. There are fab Italian & Spanish cheeses or heavy puds to follow. At around £12 for decent-portioned main courses, it’s good value as well.