While an extensive facelift has freshened up the familiar contemporary city centre pub format that combines a ‘traditional’ bar area with modern day requirements such as a chic drinking den with a ‘clubby’ feel and that all-important (to smokers, anyway) covered, heated patio, elements of the customary menu of Brit-pub entertainment (pool tables, big screens, fruit machines, theme and karaoke nights, etc) maintain a strong presence at the heart of this lively, student-friendly urban oasis. Menus offer a crowd-pleasing selection ranging from bar snacks and sharing platters (chicken wings, calamari rings, etc) to lunchtime sarnies and a range of more substantial pub grub treats (including highly recommended fish and chips and a sturdy Sunday roast) resulting in a selection that, while well-sourced and wallet friendly, is unlikely to be listed in the foodie file marked ‘memorable meals’. However, if you’re looking for upmarket, fresh fast food prior to a night on the town, The Cork provides an ideal stopgap.

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A-Z • Alfresco hotspots • Budget restuarants • Lunch-time destinations • Party venues • Roast dinner experts