One of Dundee's oldest pubs with sturdy wooden seats and tables, green leather benches, and a rare Ballingall Brewery mirror, all giving the Phoenix its special traditional character; warm and cosy with great atmosphere and subdued lighting, like pubs used to be. Indeed the atmosphere seems almost timeless, after the pub changed hands in July 2024 from Alan Bannerman, who had owned the Phoenix for 4 decades, to new boss Andy Robertson. The Nethergate location is handy for the Rep Theatre, Dundee Contemporary Arts and Bonar Hall.

Five ales are normally on offer, with Scottish breweries well-supported, along with excellent pub food provided at reasonable prices. Note that since the food is all fresh, serving times may finish early in periods of high demand.