The Lord Gladstone

On the edge of the rapidly gentrifying Central Park area, lies the Lord Gladstone. Now in the hands of the OG crew (Benny Johnson and Mitchell Crum), the pub has had a makeover of sorts. While its retained its old-school feel and general laidback vibe, the boys have amped up the entertainment, with more live gigs and parties, plus more art exhibitions in the upstairs gallery space, Goodspace.

But still, the stern visage of Gladstone hangs outside tiled walls with a big screen showing sports on one wall while the Regent Street traffic buzzes outside. It's a laidback space, perfect for locals to congregate for a midweek dinner.

In the kitchen, Head Chef Joseph Luamanu (The Carter, Pub Life Kitchen) is turning out a menu inspired by the American South. Expect the likes of chicken wings, US-style nachos, tacos and, of course, tacos. Existing pub classics like the cheeseburger and schnitty won't be going anywhere, either.

The sugary piece de resistance, however, is the deep-fried Golden Gaytime, all crunch and melting sweetness. Swimming in golden sauce, it'll make you nostalgic not just for the sadly departed Abercrombie Hotel's version but for summer treats from the pool canteen.

Drinks include some (very) local craft beers, such as Young Henrys, 4 Pines, Resch's and Akasha. There's also a short wine list and espresso martinis on tap.

With a dedication to live music and an existing killer sound system for the purpose, the Lord Gladstone seems comfortable in its skin, neither trying too hard for design magazine hip nor chasing the food trend of the month. From the graffiti-strewn courtyard to the tartan carpets in the front room, it's an approachable pub set to be a reliable local for years to come.