N1064 The Oval

This is one of the few very central pubs that aren't massive modern bars, and I was surprised myself that I'd never actually been in. Claiming to be the longest licenced premises on Abbey Street and rebuilt after the Rising, its a nice "Victorian" (1920s rebuild) pub. No problems getting seats at 5 on a Thursday, but I think it'd be a lot busier on weekends. Owned by Charlie Chawke, its definitely the cosiest of his chain that I've been to so far.