The Pot Belly, BELCONNEN, ACT

Set in the suburban backwater of Belconnen, the Pot Belly is a laidback local instutution. This place serves up the kind of staples that down-to-earth barflies truly appreciate.

At the bar and you'll find VB, Carlton, Guinness and Cascade Light all on tap and a kitchen menu that includes classic burgers, steaks and salads. Pleasures are simple here.

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays see live bands belt out cover hits and originals that cross all sorts of genre borders. Meanwhile, Thursdays offer open-mic opportunities for fledgling bands and soloists who want to cut their teeth on the live music circuit and strut their stuff in front of a crowd.