The Three Crowns

You know that spot where the Barbican's cobbled charm meets actual Plymouth life? That's where you'll find this traditional boozer, planted firmly on The Parade with windows facing the harbour. It's got that perfect balance of being touristy enough to have consistently decent food but local enough that you won't feel like you're in some theme park version of a British pub. The menu does all the classics without trying too hard – think proper fish and chips, Sunday roasts that actually matter, and gastropub fare that doesn't cost the earth. The beer selection's solid, the staff know what they're doing, and you can actually hear your mates talk over a pint. Plus, the location means you can stumble out and be at the Mayflower Steps in about thirty seconds, which is handy for impressing visiting relatives.