London lives: Where shall we meet? The ICA cafe: The ICA bar

The ICA, Carlton House Terrace, The Mall, SW1 (071-930 3647)

The ICA bar is perfect for people who want to be arty without actually having to do anything arty. It has the useful feature of being open from midday until 1am, serving coffee (95p), wine (small glass pounds 1.30, large pounds 2.30) beer and assorted flapjacks to those who purport to be attending the Institute's range of stimulating events. If the charms of Contemporary Art start to wear thin, a happy couple of hours can be spun out laying bets as to who will spot someone, male or female, not sporting headgear. A quick walk up the steps takes you to Lower Regent St and the Haymarket; St James's Park is just opposite.

Tomorrow: The Slug and Lettuce, Islington.

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