The Cricketers Arms, or “the Crix” to those who know it well, has a special atmosphere – the kind that can’t be faked. The drinks, the people and the live music make the place tick. It’s independently owned and, like any good pub, doesn’t take itself too seriously.

The homey, convivial vibe downstairs has long been the pub’s biggest draw, followed closely by the grungy little courtyard that heaves on weekends. There’s also a fireplace for chilly winter nights, wonderfully graffitied toilets and occasionally, live jazz. It also has a stunning collection of ephemera that’s been there since well before it was a prerequisite of Sydney pubs.

If downstairs is the extension of one’s living room, then the upstairs bistro, Chez Crix, is the extension of the dining room. Head here for French-leaning fare such as LP’s saucisson with guindilla chillies or house-made chicken liver parfait with cornichons to start. For something more substantial, try roast chicken (brined a day in advance) or a classic steak frites with bordelaise.

Back downstairs, the Chez Crix also runs a pub menu including the bistro menu’s starters, plus burgers and chicken parmie croquettes, a perfect bar snack. And, speaking of the bar, the pub’s long standing relationship with The Grifter Brewing Company in Marrickville means there’s a solid showing of the brewery’s beers and seltzer on tap.

Whilst weekends tend to attract a younger demographic, and the pub's location between Central and Moore Park means that it’s sometimes a jam-packed pit stop for sport fans, you'll never be out of place here.