The Sparkle Horse

The former Dowanhill pub, located behind Kelvinhall subway in the West End, has been given a lick of paint (mostly black) and reopened its doors as The Sparkle Horse. Don't let the equestrian name throw you, though  – Sparklehorse were an American indie rock band. Inside there’s nearly as much black paint as on the outside, but the low lighting and comfy booths make it a laid-back space to while away the hours. Behind the bar they've a selection of WEST brewery beers on tap and a small range of world bottled beers, with further plans to expand in response to customer requests.

The food menu is well thought-out and despite being small has still found room for a small selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes. For meat lovers, the classic steak and ale pie is given a new lease of life with the inclusion of Krusovice beer. As in, we're there.