Mallard

You're in Frenchgate's food court, and instead of grabbing another chain sandwich, you slip into the Mallard for something with actual character. It's the kind of pub that doesn't overcomplicate things—good beers, honest food, and enough space that you're not wedged against someone else's table. The crowds here are mixed: families stopping by after shopping, regulars who've made it their spot, groups meeting up before heading into town. Nothing fancy, nothing trying too hard, just a proper local that gets the basics right and doesn't charge you the earth for it.