O'Neill's Leicester

You know what you're getting at O'Neill's, and sometimes that's exactly what you want. Tucked down Loseby Lane just off the High Street, this Irish-themed chain pub has managed to avoid feeling like a soulless corporate machine thanks to staff who actually seem to care and regulars who've made it their local. The weekend breakfast stretches until proper o'clock, the sports coverage is comprehensive without being obnoxious, and the food does the job without pretending to be something it's not. It's the sort of place where you can nurse a pint while watching the match, grab a quick bite between shopping, or settle in for a proper session with mates. Not groundbreaking, but executed well enough that you'll find yourself back there when you need somewhere dependable in the city centre.