The Alice, Aldgate, EC3

Formerly called all sorts of things, including the Barracuda, Springbok and Eastern Monk. Inside the substantantial glazed facades, it comprises a very large - partially split-level - layout (which is just about spacious rather than cavernous). Variety of different seating areas with modern decor and furniture, including some big tables suitable only for groups. Four real ales on handpump: Doom Bar, TT Landlord, Old Speckled Hen and Bombardier (£3.75). Overall, slightly better than I was expecting...

A big barn of a bar located on the Houndsditch a short walk from Liverpool Street. Its sports orientated with two large pull down screens and then 16 plazma tele’s dotted all over the place, so that it is virtually impossible to stand anywhere in this place without a full view of a screen. And at least one of them is 3D and the glasses can be purchased at the bar for £2. And there is a couple of pool tables on the far side for those who are not interested in what’s on the screens. I am reliably informed that it is a decent place for a drink and a snack during the day, but I have only visited during the evening when a big game is on, when it can be much more raucous and a great place for watching your team with a few hundred like-minded fellow supporters and the atmosphere can be top notch if your team wins. Extensive range of chrome taps dispensing the usual ice cold fizzy beverages. It does have one real pump, and the beer from it is decidedly average. But I’ve got no idea what it is, as I’ve always left trying to get served in the maelstrom in front of the bar on busy nights to others.