Pub Of The Week: Pave, Hull

There can’t be too many pubs that can claim to have changed the drinking habits of an entire city, but it’s something Pave, on Hull’s Princes Avenue, can legitimately boast – not that they ever would.

Before Pave came along, in the mid 90s, Hull’s drinkers either frequented their own locals or the chain boozers to be found on the long-established city centre drinking circuit. Bored with these options, a small but determined consortium of would-be bar owners clubbed together and opened Pave. It was the first establishment in the city that remotely resembled a cool London bar and its laidback atmosphere, solid drink offering and inventive menu proved an almost immediate hit with Hull’s sophistication-starved refreshment seekers.

Today, Pave is still the most respected and adventurous watering hole in Hull. They have regular comedy, music, theatre and even dance nights and there can be few better places in the city to spend a Sunday afternoon than at one of their weekly jazz sessions. Food and drink options are exemplary. Local cask ales sit next to the pick of continental beers and the menu features British and European classics made from seasonal ingredients. Pave wears its “Hull-ness” proudly; the walls are decorated with paintings and photographs by local artists and illustrate local themes.

Most importantly, Pave maintains a cosy, friendly, informal atmosphere. Most of the staff have been in place for many years and even if you visit only infrequently you are treated to the same welcome as the regulars. Sitting next to the big front windows, overlooking the traffic on Princes Avenue, you realise that not only did Pave change the way the people of Hull drink but that the change was very much for the better. Dave Lee

16-20 Princes Ave, Hull, HU5 3QA. 01482 333181. www.pavebar.co.uk

The Verdict

Welcome ****

Drinks selection *****

Atmosphere *****

Food ****

Prices ****