Empire Hotel

A sophisticated renovation has transformed this pub's lounge room, which was once famed as a gig venue. Curl up by candlelight in oversized armchairs or one of the inviting sofas, and you could be excused for thinking you were in the Philippe Starck-designed bar of a world-class hotel. The food matches the classier look, but serves remain generous. You can't go past the well-cooked cuts of steak or salmon, and you should order a burger just for the faux-newspaper porcelain chip container. Save room for the chocolate fondant dessert. BYO book to match the wallpapered bookshelf.