A major fire nearly destroyed this mock-Tudor landmark, but thankfully, an indie outfit (whose boozers include The Shacklewell Arms) has taken it over and ‘the Cat’ purrs on: rebuilt, refurbished and relaunched in 2017. The pub – all sober 1930s-style blue-collar decor – is split into a lounge bar and a diner with leather booths; there’s a heated terrace out back. Quench your thirst with draught south London ales (Brockley Red or chocolatey Southwark Oatmeal Stout, perhaps). Alternatively, there’s an approachable range of vino or an invigorating Bloody Mary. Food incorporates bar snacks of whitebait with spicy Korean-style mayo, as well as main courses (available evenings and weekends) such as ratatouille-stuffed red pepper with a quinoa and mixed veg salad, or pork belly with sweetheart cabbage. Weekend brunches and Sunday roasts are also worth considering. Popular events include weekly quiz night, classic film screenings and DJ sets at Friday’s Lost Cat Club.