The Princess of Shoreditch

This Victorian back street boozer has been given a new lease of life but it still retains some of its workaday charm. Fittings such as the pub's original 'Princess Royal' mirror blend with contemporary design touches.

There's usually three cask ales on draught and an excellent range of over 30 bottled beers and ciders with more mainstream lagers also on draught.
The spirits selection is more limited but none the less premium while the well comprised wine list stretches to 17 by the glass.

However, this is a gastro pub and the excellent food here is the real draw - especially on a Sunday when pre-booking will save you a 30 minute to an hours wait for one of the coveted tables in the bar. Up the spiral staircase: a small, chic dining room with big picture windows, a fireplace, florid wallpaper to match the outside signage and cafe-style chairs surround simple square tables.

Incidentally, The Princess is the Older sister pub of Islington's The Pig and Butcher.