Credited as being the city’s original gastropub (after all, it was first established as an alehouse in 1837), this popular neighbourhood hangout serves food that’s distinctly (and consistently) a cut above average in terms of flair and execution. Part pub, part bar but mainly a friendly bistro with stylish, home-from-home décor, the Franglais menus revolve around a short, thoughtful selection based on local, seasonal produce — all at very reasonable prices. Sturdy bar snacks (Merguez sausages, hummus, etc) keep snackers happy (in fact, they tend to be robust enough to serve as a satisfying supper as they are), an eclectic but practical wine list adds further conviviality for bar flies, and local beers from the Milk Street Brewery in Frome nestle in amongst chic continental lagers. Go easy on that winding wooden staircase that leads up to the loos after a few too many, though.

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A-Z of Bath Restaurants • Bath Institutions • Family-friendly restaurants • Lazy cafes & restaurants • Party venues