Lock Tavern, The

It's places like these which give a new meaning to words like funky, trendy and upscale because at The Lock Tavern in Camden, they are not mere epithets used to paint a flamboyant picture. A designer black interior emits all sorts of 'coolness' while the garden and roof terrace with chunky wooden tables lends a freshness that is almost startling in its appeal.

This is the sort of place newbies will be excited to discover and old timers will feel a certain amount of nostalgia in their pride. DJ's spin eclectic mixes of music creating the perfect atmosphere while the food is never far from your thoughts. From the menu of light and easy fare, there are usually dishes such as warm chicken and bacon salad with balsamic syrup amongst starters. Mains tend to include Lincolnshire sausages with homemade mash served with caramelized onion and gravy or beer battered haddock fillet with chips, mixed leaf salad and tartar sauce.