Despite a substantial and sympathetic refit in the spring of 2010 by the fast-growing Realpubs group, this remains at heart a tiled-exterior local boozer, where the impressive culinary offerings need not dissuade the drinker from strolling in for a quiet pint.
In expansive, high-ceilinged, wood-panelled surroundings, pull up a bar stool and sup on lagers such as Sagres, Bitburger and Moretti, or ales including Brains Milkwood and Deuchars IPA, with Vedett, Duvel, Budvar and Chimay (of both colours) brightening the fridge behind. Wines include a dozen choices by the glass, rising to feature the likes of a Tremblay chablis at around £25 to £30 a bottle.
The superior food menu might include pan-fried Cornish sardines, Lancashire hotpot and poached haddock, with occasional forays into continental variety (seafood, chicken and smoked sausage paella). Music and monthly comedy nights should bring customers from further afield than NW6.