Builders Arms Hotel

The large, leafy tree outside the pub on Gertrude Street has become something of a landmark in recent years. On any regular afternoon, drinkers can be found sitting on painted, wrought-iron chairs under its shade, murmuring cheerfully as they down their pots of Carlton, Cascade, Asahi and Stella Artois.

Step inside and you'll see a well-worn but by no means charmless interior. The staff are pleasant and have a service style that's just as casual as their dress sense. Out the back is another story altogether. A swanky, plush restaurant with seriously swish dishes and service to match is making a name for itself, so it's best to choose which part of the establishment you're coming to visit before leaving home, in order to look the part.