All Bar One, Aldgate, EC3

Completely formulaic chain bar / restaurant with the only feature of interest being the chandelier created from upturned wine glasses suspended above the staircase leading to the basement bar (not in regular use) and toilets. No real ale, of course, and a dull selection of overpriced keg offering from the two banks of shiny founts, from which the Meantime London Pale Ale seemed the best bet (albeit at a whopping £5.35)

Typical ABO format in a very modern City block in achingly historic Houndsditch. Not the most comfortable from the ABO stable due to the very modern nature but as with all branches, you know what to expect. There's not much around here though drinking in the City isn't the greatest of adventures, so I doubt I'll return.