Cafe Society: the links in chain

STRONG LINKS:

Slug and Lettuce Similar to All Bar One, sightly more pubby, but they've mastered the idea that chicks like their sandwiches on posh bread and even executives worry about cholesterol.

Pitcher and Piano Safe haven for Sloanes across the city: bargain booze in bulk and, say regulars, a guarantee of scoring some toothsome youth from the shires by closing time.

Bar Coast A newcomer from the north, brightly coloured pre-club venues (though calm and familyish at lunchtime) plastered in modern art, with DJs and even some dancing.

JD Wetherspoon Old- fashioned-modern pubs with no telly. Pulling power in a nutshell.

WEAK LINKS:

Firkin Breweries Puns a bit tired, jollity a bit forced, regulars a bit too fond of rugby.

Cafe Rouge Some risk of bistro burnout - staff often uppity, and could do with a menu update.

Corney and Barrow Traders waving champagne bottles is so Eighties, darling...