A Grehla at The Gun, The Docklands

Do you remember what the sun looks like? Euro 2012 is in full flow and the longest day is upon us, but the summer is in danger of being overwhelmed by London’s first recorded monsoon. At least that should help the hosepipe ban.

Of course, by the time this article is published, the sun may have returned, and that’s a good thing for many reasons, not least being that the fabulous Martin brothers have opened the alfresco grill, A Grelha at The Gun.

The Gun was one of the first Martin gastropubs I visited, and a fine establishment it is. Fabulous Thames views from the terrace, an interesting back-story (Emma Hamilton and Nelson apparently enjoyed it, if you get my drift) a lovely vibe, decent beer (including ale from Dark Star and Adnams), and Martin brothers cooking makes it a welcome respite from the chain bar blandness of nearby Canary Wharf.

However, it is in the back-end of nowhere, and it takes a little bit extra to get punters along. Fortunately, A Grelha delivers that extra appeal and more. Apparently it was inspired by Tom and Ed's childhood memories of the Algarve. PR aside, it works a treat. Of the many platters that came our way, the fish cakes and the prawns were divine. Even the Portuguese rose was crisp, dry and refreshing (I had feared the worst), and the view of the Thames and the 02 works a treat in the setting sun.

The punters are very City-meets-the-Docklands-creative-crowd, and the ambiance is relaxed, which is helped by the friendly but super-efficient service.

I’ve been guilty in the past of effusing about the Martin brothers, however I see no need to change that just yet. I’ve never actually met either of them, but I do love their bars and their food, of which, the Gun is one of the best. Don’t wait for the sunshine.

Walton Woodford

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Walton (aka the Big W) is a failed breakdancer, extras 'actor', rugby player and lead singer of a never-heard-of garage band who, disillusioned with his own lack of talent immigrated from NZ to the UK in the mid '90s. Since then he has dedicated his spare time to drinking and schmoozing his way around various bars pubs and clubs of high - and occasionally low - repute, and writing about them on his now retired blog The Perfect Bloody Mary. After 17 years in the City, he has now found his calling working in the travel industry, and of course, reviewing for HITC.