Crossings Pub & Eatery, London

Working from within a historical Victorian house, the kitchen staffers at Crossing's Grill and Pub put an appropriately upscale twist on their pub food. They even gussy up traditional brunch and lunch selections with elegant flairs, topping french toast with Grand Marnier–marinated strawberries and tempering hot buffalo pork schnitzel sandwiches with honey. At dinnertime, they put away the griddle and prepare heftier entrees such as roasted muscovy duck breasts and gourmet meatloaf with chorizo. To bolster meals, bartenders pour wine and beer from around the world, as well as craft specialty cocktails such as the Railway Caesar, with clamato juice, Russian Standard vodka, and piquant sauces garnished with a lime wedge and a cog from a steam engine. Adding to the fun, the dining room hosts live entertainment every Saturday night.