East Dulwich Tavern

If Stoke Newington has Church street, Shoreditch has Redchurch Street and who knows who has Columbia Road (Bethnal Green?), then Lordship Lane is definitely East Dulwich's standout street. Dotted with cafés, restaurants, and bars - and soon to be cinemas - a venue could get lost down here, not that that's a problem for this big handsome pub. It's got the name for a start.

Bang on the roundabout at the foot of Lordship Lane, the East Dulwich Tavern is the type of smart, modern pub that makes a good case for leaving traditional interiors well alone, at least to some extent. Inside, it's a mixed up collection of large tables, lounge-like quarters complete with well-used sofas and bric-a-brac, displayed below high ceilings and behind big windows. You could probably call this a community pub given that on the occasions we visit we find a diverse mix of characters that confirms that East Dulwich is no Dulwich Village.

Food and drink is classic yet classy. There's a good range of beers on tap - including local craft ales - and a wine list a cut about the average. The food menu errs on the expensive side - there's that Dulwich village creeping in - but quality is high and there's not a ham, egg and chips in sight.

Call it the East Dulwich Tavern or the EDT; it’s a comfortable pub with a good crowd.