ATMOSPHERE: There's a cheerful, relaxed atmosphere in The Pavillion because it's the sort of place that attracts a very laid-back customer.

CROWD: Everyone, from locals of all ages to eastern Europeans, who will dance to whatever is belting out of one of six plasma screens playing MTV or some other music channel.

It's the kind of crowd that turns its head when a non-familiar face enters, but soon gets bored of the new visitor, and then you can relax.

SERVICE: Excellent. Surprisingly there were foreign girls serving and they were chatty, just a bit too hard on those bottles. Firing empties into a bin is not the kind of sound effect any punter wants.

INTERIOR: The Pavillion is the brother of Shaftesbury Square's Lavery's. It has that signature separate level character which means crowds of all ages are drawn in.

The top floor is home to pool tables - a must for any hustlers, while the middle floor often hosts company events, such as charity fundraising evenings, quiz nights, or airing the best in local aspiring entertainers.

The public bar is pretty much reminiscent of Lavery's bottom bar, with its traditional charm, almost segmented seating areas and a dominant wooden make up.

Even the exterior of The Pavillion has an air of 'ould Lav's'. Locals will sit in a row at the bar and know everyone, but not in an intimidating manner.

Although the public bar is long and narrow, the owners value their punters, and have installed six flat screens to show all the big games and ensure the football fans are never too far away from the TV.

DRINKS: All the favourites and more with some nice wines. There's also a good food menu, but sadly grub's only served until 2.30pm.

PRICES: Average.

ENTRY: Free.

DRESS CODE: You'd feel out of place if you were anything but casual.

LOCATION: The Pavillion Bar can be found at 296 Ormeau Road, Belfast.

Emma Deighan