O'Neill's Kings Cross

You're on Euston Road during rush hour, surrounded by commuters and tourists, and you need a proper drink without the faff. O'Neill's does exactly what it says on the tin: solid Irish pub classics, reliable lagers, and enough screens showing football that you'll never miss a match. It's the sort of place where you can rock up alone or with mates and feel equally comfortable—there's no pretence here, just good craic and decent food that won't bankrupt you. The Kings Cross location means it's always buzzing, especially post-work, but it never tips into obnoxious territory.