The Brewery Bar — Restaurant in Eastleigh

My friend and I dropped in for a swift pint on a Monday morning...we were the only people in the bar, with the exception of the barmaid... and it was her first day!!! So obviously I can't comment on atmosphere and food.

Very nicely and sympathetically restored during its last renovation, the pub has a real 'local' feel to it. I was very disappointed to see 'morning television' on the TV as I assume it could show sports? Listening to a lot of Woke commentators and watching celebrity LGBTQ definitely is not why I go to the pub.

I assume that the barmaid was responsible for the channel choice?

There are plenty of tables for eating, both inside and out in the small garden. The gent's toilets are spotlessly clean and shows attention to details in the cleaning regime. There is a nice fireplace which I assume would be a lovely centrepiece on a cold evening or daytime visit.

This is a nice little venue and definitely worth a visit. They have a smallish car park... possibly spaces for 15+ cars and you will definitely not be disappointed with their drinks selection. On which I must say that prices are slightly north of average. My friend and I were in a pub in Fair Oak last Monday and 2 pints of Stella Artois came in at £8.50...today a pint of Amstel and a pint of cider came in at £11.40?... that's a whopping £3.90 difference!!!

That said I would definitely go back and...

Dropped in for a quick drink on Saturday night ...and ended up staying all evening. The Brewery Bar in Botley is such a vibrant place! It was buzzing with a bunch of jolly people having a good time. My dog came and he loved it too! The Landladies are so friendly and even though they were clearly very busy with guests they even popped over now and again to make sure our party were alright (and thoughtfully brought my dog some water). I haven’t lived in the village for many years, but it’s obvious that under the current owners this quirky pub is now the beating heart of Botley! There was a good selection of spirits at the bar. The ladies loos were also well stocked and clean. I was anxious about going out due the the whole Covid situation but there is a massive outside area both to the side and rear of the pub which has both a large semi closed gazebo and a well lit pub garden with plenty of seating areas and space to stand. We’re looking forward to returning soon to try their food menu (I hear the dirty fries are a must!) Thanks to Tash and Harry for an unexpectedly...

A traditional pub that still has the memory of that inside, though is kitted out more like a cafe or restaurant, with small dining tables laid out, each ready with knives and forks. They don't look inviting to sit at to spend a relaxing few hours, and are geared up to be functional for eating a meal and then leaving. The pub does have live bands fairly frequently.

The area near the front door is more pub like, with locals sitting at the bar, and a table by the window which is more suited just for sitting at and drinking. A couple of guest ales on offer as well as a cask cider. An acceptable place for lunch, being clean and light, but does lack character and comfort.

Botley is an interesting looking village, and the three pubs are all acceptable, and serve food. Being close to the Hedge End shopping complex, any of them would be OK for a quick lunch before shopping. But not for anything special. The Dolphin is probably the most down to earth and family friendly, the Bugle the most upmarket and characterful, and the Brewery Bar the freshest and...