The Slug & Lettuce, Waterloo, SE1

Anonymous modern split-level bar, with a row of tables along the front windows but the staple-shaped bar and main 'seating' areas (all seemingly reserved for dining) are located up a few steps. On the plus side, unlike the adjacent All Bar One, it does at least do real ale from three handpumps: Greene King IPA, Doom Bar and London Pride (£3.35). Keg offerings include Stiff Upper Lip Pale Ale from By the Horns and the St Mungo Lager from Scotland.

Previously Bar Med, this particular S&L is typical of the brand. It's a large bar at street level, with toilets in the basement, empty tables and too many amateur staff who insist on addressing everyone as though they are teenagers, giving the place the feel of the youth club stall at the village fete. There was one ale on, Wells's Bombardier, which was in surprisingly good condition and not over-chilled. The food was, by contrast, very dull indeed - possibly the blandest chilli con carne (carne sin chile would have been a more accurate description) I've ever eaten. It's convenient for the Eye and the Aquarium, but there are better options nearby for food and ale.

On my visits here I have noticed that this place seems to mainly cater for groups of woman drinking orange juice or coke. I've only been in twice and the second time was because I had found out on my first visit that the toilet is next to the entrance so I could have a leak in there after getting off the train at Waterloo. I will visit here again next time I'm caught short.

Official page of the Slug & Lettuce - County Hall - www.slugandlettuce.co.uk/county_hall/