Oakford Social Club

You'll find this place right in the heart of town on Blagrave Street, where the line between pub and restaurant gets pleasantly blurred. The front feels like any decent local – proper bar, good selection of beers, the kind of place you'd happily prop up for a pint after work. But venture further in and you'll discover they're taking their food seriously, with a kitchen that turns out dishes that go well beyond your standard pub fare. The beauty of Oakford Social Club is that it works whether you're after a quick drink or a full meal. The menu changes regularly and shows proper thought – think elevated comfort food that doesn't try too hard to be fancy. It's packed most evenings for good reason, drawing a mix of Reading professionals and food-focused punters who've cottoned on to the fact that this isn't your average boozer.