I think this is my new favourite National. They have a great space; it feels like a good pub but has way better flow than the one on 17th. It seems cleaner too which is always nice. And the crowd seems to be a little more in line with my somewhat aging demographic.
Of course they have a gazillion beers available, priced fairly but not cheaply. There is something for everyone taste wise, regardless of how much you know about beer. They have fun appies (deep fried pickles - yay!) and tasty main dishes should you want to take in a meal. I like the burgers a lot.
The tables are all communal - sometime this is fun and other times a little less depending on who you are sharing with and how good they are at sharing. It adds to the friendly vibe of the place though.
Service is good - down to earth people who are not dressed like Barbies and who are allowed to have their own personalities (what a novel idea!).
There is a big parkade across the street which is nice if you don't feel like going on a quest for street parking. In the evenings and on weekends is super cheap.