Sugar and spice and all the things nice make up this stylised bar, which, with a bit of luck and not to mention a few more punters, could really have something to shout about.

The Venue
Brixton socialites once denounced the Hope and Anchor as little more than a dodgy local boozer; prime dwellings for those fancying a pint and a fight, and not necessarily in that order. If true, full marks to the management for transforming a venue avoided by all but the most hardy of South Londoners into one of the most visually impressive bars in the area. Its traditional pub features still deceptively grace the front, but inside a huge and stylishly lighted bar dominates the ground floor, while upstairs the eastern-themed Myth bar easily doubles up as a nightclub backroom. The garden, the piece de resistance, could easily be mistaken for a prime-time television design showpiece, rather than the usual tobacco convention. An outside rip-roaring fire and a shrine-shaped tree house are just two of the many details that continue the theme of high chic throughout.

The Atmosphere
A fashionable venue will almost certainly lead to fashionable people. A selection of young and fairly affluent locals know how to prop up the bar to an eclectic music backdrop. The friendly bar, restaurant and management staff are happy to assist, and the security contingency fades, as it should, into the background. There is even a throwback to the former pub as staunch middle-aged regulars still frequent despite its glitzy finesse.

The Food
A stripped down gastro menu endeavours to give customers exactly what they want - namely burgers and chips. However, it’s probably the best burger and chips within a five mile radius judging by the amount of effort that clearly goes into each variety. Toppings such as papaya and mango, tarragon dijonaise and tzatiki, continue the conscious effort to experiment and tinker with classical designs. Just don’t expect an assortment of dishes as the burgers and occasional salads dominate the options. The meals are also reasonably priced at around £6.95 with sizable portions.

The Drink
Beers, wines and spirits all generally meet the national requirements but the cocktails are of particular note. Cheeky house specials such as the Glamorama and Little Red Corvette (priced at around £7.50) are definitely not for the faint hearted, and should perhaps come with an alcohol (not to mention a fire safety) warning. Who would have thought that the colour pink, an inferno and delight could come together?

The Last Word
Exceptionally friendly staff, a chic interior and a reasonably priced menu has ensured the Hope and Anchor has escaped the shackles of its shady past into a real South London hotspot.

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