Pickwick Pub

Rebuilt and reopened in March after being destroyed by fire and closed for a year, the fresh new room of this 32-year-old pub is still comfortable and homey. The food's been updated too — lightened up with fresh fish and salad offerings. It's a pretty, friendly place, full of dart players who know their game, live music and a mix of regulars and occasionals, mostly young. It's more a get-to-know-you spot than many pubs. The extensive menu is inviting and the open-layout room is equally comfortable for dining or just getting together for drinks. The Cal-Val standards and British specialties are like good diner fare: barbecue chicken breast or skirt steak with steak with mushrooms come with sides such as mashed and peas; juicy, salty onion rings are a specialty. There are 14 draft beers, including Irish stouts and lager, English ales and cider.