Hardy's Hophouse, Weymouth

Facebook page of Hardy's Hophouse - www.facebook.com

Facebook page of Hardy's Hophouse - www.facebook.com

Previously a Marston’s pub called Dolce Vita, it’s now an independent cheap and nasty bar/diner which appears to be foreign-run. The layout is as previously described. There is no real ale, just a bank of bog-standard keg beers, none of which stand out as interesting. The name is a misnomer, there is certainly no hop culture here, it’s just a place for young morons to come and eat over-priced slop and get drunk while being watched by bouncers who are not from these parts, while listening to untalented live acts. Absolutely worth avoiding; if you really want a similar experience for less money and more class, try the Slug and Lettuce just down the road.

Dolce Vita gained its moniker in sometime in 2009 after a stint as Que Pasa and before that the Toad at the Bank. It now advertises itself as a nightclub/bar/café so the atmosphere and client demographic changes throughout the day. My visit was early on Thursday evening last week when there were only a handful of other customers. The bar runs along the right hand wall and to the left are some stairs up to another bar that I didn’t visit. On the stairs was a DJ who was playing some tunes off his lap top, but the other customers seemed more interested in watching the muted Olympics that was being shown on the numerous plasma screens. San Miguel and a standard draught range were available from the bar and various cocktails are also available. There are drinks deals at various times throughout the day and week. As nightclubs/bars/cafes go this place seemed friendly and relaxed and I would have no problem returning.