The Beauchamp

From the sleek upstairs terrace down to the velvet basement bar, it's clear why this Oxford Street icon has earned itself a sexy reputation. There's an old-world charm to this 1867 pub, named for Lord Beauchamp, NSW governor from 1899-1900 (later outed as gay) and known to have hosted writers such as Henry Lawson. It's easy to imagine barflies and bohemians feasting on the tasting menu of shucked oysters alongside fresh asparagus with truffle oil. Go the moist pumpkin, spinach and mushroom risotto over the burgers, which are on the dry side. The chips are worth sampling, as is the grilled salmon. Prices are hard to beat.