The Garrison, which originally found fame some years ago as the Honest Cabbage, can be found on Bermondsey Street, an increasingly gentrifed area ten minutes walk from London Bridge station.

As befits its description as a 'gastropub', the main reason to come here is for the food. Those looking to settle down for a few pints would be better served crossing the road to the not-so-gastro pub 'The Woolpack'.

The food itself is exceptional although tough to classify beyond that. While carnivores are certainly catered for the Garrison does offer a fine line in vegetarian options. On a recent visit with two friends the three of us (none vegetarian) all chose a different veggie option and none of us regretted it. Prices are not pub cheap but certainly not outrageous - expect to pay around £10-£12 for a main course. Side dishes (new potatoes, runner beans etc) are an extra couple of pounds each but are often not required.

On the drinks side wine drinkers are very well catered for from house white/red at £12.50 a bottle to 'fine wine' such as a £62 Chateauneuf du Pape. Beer drinkers will not feel out of place although options are limited and draft Staropramen is the chief option.

So far so good. Now the downside. The Garrison is not a large pub and the emphasis on food means that tables (which can be booked) dominate the floorspace. Attempts have been made to make the interior light and airy but space is a major issue - tables really are packed in and you are likely to end up on nodding terms with your dining neighbours whether you want to or not. When packed to capacity - which as a popular venue it often is - the noise can be horrendous and shouting across the table to your dining companions is the only option. Come on a quiet evening mid week and the situation is very different - very relaxed and a much more pleasant experience.

Staff are amiable enough and pretty efficient given the crowds. The clientele vary from Bermondsey Street locals (lots of creative types) to foodie tourists checking out the pub's reputation. You won't feel out of place either in a suit or in jeans and the overall vibe is very relaxed.

Overall the Garrison is definitely worth the trip and a convenient detour from the much more commercial outlets available around London Bridge. If you fancy checking out the food then I would recommend a visit on a Monday to Wednesday evening which tend to be much quieter.

Finally there is a downstairs room / cinema available to hire at a reasonable price. For details on everthing from food and drink to room hire I recommend the excellent website - www.thegarrison.co.uk