The Cottage Bar & Kitchen

In a wide Victorian house, fronted by pastoral gardens and outdoor seating, an alluring provincial vibe defies Balmain's city pace. Smart and quirky decor features tongue and groove panelling, vintage farm paraphernalia and rustic furniture. A massive wood-fired oven cooks pizza - a 'mr pork waldorf', with roasted pork belly and black pudding, is lip-smacking. Snack on inventive share plates - spatchcock, trout, crab and pork belly are winners - or choose cheese and cured meats. Settle into the farmhouse surrounds with good local and imported wine, beer, cider or jugs of fragrantly potent punch.