Cream walls & framed monochrome prints create a smart, tasteful backdrop at this cheerful basement wine bar, tucked into a quiet lane off Eastcheap. It may seem low-key, but Steam works hard to get itself noticed, with a plethora of events spanning everything from private karaoke parties to monthly quiz nights & sporting dinners. Drinkers get their fill of draught Beck’s Vier or Staropramen, bottled London Pride or Peroni, cocktails by the pitcher, & a fairly short wine list that advertises a few lesser known varietals alongside the ubiquitous Sauvignons & Chardonnays – a 2009 Gavi di Gavi at £23.95, for example. For lunch there are light bites, sandwiches on granary bread, Caesar salads & burgers; in the evening, nibbles & sharing platters are the rule.