The Old Bell

The 2012 edition of The List's Eating & Drinking Guide is out now – only £5.95 (+p&p).

This review is taken from the current (2012) edition.

The Causewayside stalwart is a popular spot with Southside drinkers who know their stuff. This is a place with character in abundance, with walls sporting original wood-carved panels and a carillon of bells hanging from the ceiling. Low-lit lamps and artefacts of a gentler age sit somewhat incongruously alongside a clutch of plasma screens catering for sports fans, but the soothing and amiable atmosphere of the place endures, fostered by lovely and exceedingly obliging staff determined to do their best by the customer. The food is decent and plentiful: nachos are a tasty and filling option for a starter, and the leek and potato soup is smooth and deliciously salty – a perfect accompaniment to a pint of one of the selection of well-chosen real ales. Drink in the silence with a book in one of the dim corners, or join in the quiz on Sunday and Monday evenings. An old-fashioned classic that has weathered many a season, and well worth a visit.

• High point: Real ales and hearthstone tales
• Low point: Too many burgers on the menu