The Grand National used to be, at one time, a fairly tatty joint, but you really wouldn't know it now. The main part of the pub is a single-room affair which can be very cramped at times - Most of the seatcing consists of stools at the bar or at the windows, though there are a few comfy chairs and couches scattered around.

The biggest attraction at the National, though, is the food. To the side is an excellent gourmet restaurant, complete with glass roof and it's own bar. The restaurant is roughly twice the size of the bar, so you can see where the focus is at the National. Having said that, the bar meals in the main part of the pub are excellent - with the Sunday Roast gaining The Grand National it's 'recommended' status on this site.

Beers are about Sydney average, expect to pay $5 for a bottle of Crown, about $3.70 or so for a VB.

The National is ideally situated for an excellent Paddington pub crawl. It's centrally located just off the main drag of Oxford Street, and has some excellent, rated pubs around it.

As you may expect, the punters are the usual eclectic Paddington mix, from high-earners to low-renters, and it's a very 'safe' environment.
review by: pubguide staff