The Branksome

Walk into The Branksome and you'll notice straight away it's the sort of place where locals actually want to spend time—not just somewhere to tick off. Commercial Road's got plenty of options, but this one's got that balance right: unpretentious enough that you'll see regulars nursing pints at the bar, polished enough that you're not worried about the furniture. The beer selection is taken seriously, which matters round here, and they've bothered to do the food properly rather than just slinging frozen stuff under a heat lamp. It's the kind of pub that works equally well for a Friday night with mates or a casual weeknight when you can't be bothered cooking.