Waterloo Tap — Restaurant in London

Had some time yesterday before heading out for lunch, so decided to try and capture my customary empty venue shots. This place in peak hours attracts passers by and beer enthusiasts alike, packed out, sweaty and a booming echo of chit chat reverberates in the archway.

Some 20 odd taps across cask and keg, and regular tap takeovers, this is a beer lovers spot primarily, and a damn sight cheaper than the Brewdog manbaby leisure centre around the corner. You can keep your £7+ pints of Lost Lager thanks.

Pint of @marblebrewers Mild coming in at south of £5 was a joy to behold, perched in the communal booth, I watched as a man ordered a Bitburger with copious fresh lime added to it. Each to their own, maybe I'm missing a trick.

If we're being totally honest, in days gone by I couldn't be bothered with the place, I've felt apathetic towards this and Euston Tap, the selection felt a little weak, hugely crowded, and the toilets would often stink out the joint. But ever since my first trip back after the lockdowns and it's been my go-to pitstop when in town. Something changed, either me or the venue, but something just "clicks" now.

It's proximity to the station, Southbank Market, Southbank Centre, The Hop Locker, the iMax, Crust Bros - I could go on, it's perfectly positioned to take advantage of immense footfall in this area of London. Easy for me since it's where my train comes into.

You have to be brave to take on the outside seating this time of year though, it's location forming part of a wind tunnel which has sent the gazebos flying in the past. In the summer though, spill out into the archway and the seating out the back has been extended for prime perching.

Service has always been quick, friendly, and informative - recommendations never fail, and a cautious word of warning offered when an expensive beer appears on the taps, since the pour sizes vary. A nice touch so you're not robbed for dabbling in something extra...

🚇 Waterloo 🍺 £5.80 Bitburger Pilsner ❤️ An atmospheric Waterloo watering hole. . The Waterloo Tap is located in a railway arch that ironically emanates from Charing Cross rather than Waterloo station. The nearest Tube is just across the road at Waterloo. . This popular pub/bar opened its doors in March 2016 and is the sister of the ever busy Euston Tap. . The decor here is modern and vibrant, the location makes for a very atmospheric setting. If you enter from the Sutton Walk entrance the attractive servery will be on your left. There is a copper back bar where the taps are, above is a chalkboard displaying the tap list of brews with name, abv and price. The seating is made up of poser tables with stools plus two comfy booths on the right. Outside are loads of benches to enjoy a beer and watch the comings and goings around Waterloo station. Around the walls are numerous signs advertising beers available from past and present. . There is an extensive selection of 5 cask and 20 keg beers to choose from. I decided on a Bitburger Pilsner, my pint was top drawer with an average price point. The food offering here is burgers by @honestburgers , simply scan a QR code at your table, order and your food will be delivered from the local Honest Burger just a few minutes away. . As with most decent station pubs, the atmosphere here was buzzing and upbeat. The crowd was a mix of predominantly day trippers and tourists taking a time out for a bevvie. The service was good, there was plenty of staff on, one staff member was lovingly polishing the copper back bar whilst not serving. . I really enjoyed visiting the @waterloo_tap , this place has lots more to offer than just the beer. The ambience, service and location make for all round excellent experience. Put this one on your list.

. ℹ️ Info correct on...

Visited on a Thursday evening. Very busy with post work drinkers and in a almost perfect location for "a swift one before heading home" on the way to Waterloo station under the railway arches. Excellent selection of beers, lagers, Ales, and a couple of stout and ciders. Although busy, the service was fast, friendly and the glasses clean. They have a live digital board with all beers on tap, how full each cask is and descriptions of flavour and colour. This board is also live on their website so you can check which Ales they have on before you're there. Very cool. Theres a couple of issues. It's under the railway arches and the ceiling isn't 100% water proof so look out for drips from above. We found checking the floor for small puddles helped first but you will also notice dripping water stains on the leather seats at the back of the bar. The other issue is the single toilet. Only one toilet for everyone in the bar. And it's a white box in the corner. There was usually a large queue so expect to wait alongside others if it's busy. If you spot no one is there, go for it! Even if you don't immediately need to go. You might be waiting ages later. Overall a great little place for a fine selection of beers and good location. Can be crowded inside if heading...