Refurbished in nu-fashioned/old-skool style by the boys behind The Sebright Arms in Bethnal Green, this similarly refreshing, attitude-free pub is a whole mindset away from the expensive suit magnets who congregate at its near neighbour, The Shard. You’ll find craft beers, artisan perry, ciders and accessible wines on the drinks list, while the food comes courtesy of chef Jun Tanaka’s Street Kitchen – purveyors of pimped-up, provenance-assured ‘gourmet’ hot dogs such as Boston hound and American pitbull (its bite is as good as its bark), as well as seasonal salads, slaws and wings. Live music from emerging talent is a regular draw upstairs, and there’s even a rehearsal studio in the basement. ‘Rockaoke’-style singalongs, indie dance DJ sets, comedy nights, theatre and ping-pong are further reasons to meet here.