Concrete Playground

It's amazing what a fresh coat of paint and some mismatched furniture can do for a courtyard. Just take the Norfolk's beer garden, for example. Since it's decidedly hip transformation, the leafy backyard has become a haven for Surry Hills locals to kick back and have a drink, and you'll be hard pressed to find a seat during the packed lunch and post-work hours. It's the jewel in this redone pub's crown.

There's a lot of great reasons to visit the Norfolk, and the trendy interior is just the start of it. Cocktail lovers will like the ingenuity behind drinks like the Bloody Mary, served in a Campbell's tomato soup tin, or the Ciderlicious, combining apple cider with pear vodka and smashed mixed berries. And while they still need to work out the kinks on the sharp-tasting Sangrias, the jugs are good value for groups.

The man behind the bar food menu is Tom Lim of Duke Bistro fame, and there's plenty to sample. Deep Fried Pickles with Ranch Dressing may sound like fantasy food for a pregnant woman, but the deliciously battered pieces are an excellent change from your standard pub food. And you can't go past the Spiced Fries, which are also the attractive side to many a main dish.

The main menu varies between Mexican-influenced winter treats, such as Tortilla Soup and Soft Tacos, and hearty options like Beef Cheek Pie. Sometimes it's a bit hit and miss, but if you visit between 12pm-3pm on weekdays, you can hit up the $10 menu, which is undoubtable value for money.

The Norfolk should be appreciated for exactly what it is: a face-lifted pub with a good vibe and diverse food.