Lounge, Southville, Bristol

A popular cafe/bar in the heart of North Street, this is one of the original establishments along with the Tobacco Factory that kick started the regeneration of the whole area. It is, I think, the original branch in the Lounge chain and has now expanded in to three units over the years. It’s a busy spot all day, with “yummy mummies” drinking coffee during the day before it morphs in to a popular spot with the area’s young professionals later on. Dark wooden boards cover the floor and the paintwork is a mixture of mustard and terracotta. Seating is chunky wooden tables and chairs, and there was a pile of papers as well as a few games to keep people entertained. Various black and white photo’s adorned the walls and notices advertised Monday quiz nights, Tuesday tapas nights, etc. At the front are full size windows with some stained glass sections along the top. The menu was all listed on blackboards and looked to be extensive with sections on burgers, tapas, paninis and all day brunch. As is the vogue in many places these days, a selection of cakes and sponges was on the end of the bar. Beers on tap were the very local Toga Man and Bath’s Dark Side. The cider was Stowford Press.

The gentrification of Bedminster continues with the Lounge. A nice, comfy, candlelit, drinking and olive eating outlet for the upmarket urban types. There's a selection of games to choose from and 3D Connect 4 takes on a different dimension after you've had a couple. The barmaids are professional flirts; don't get too excited, gents. No ales available, and what is available isn’t cheap either. However must say I rather enjoyed the visit, given this isn't my usual choice of venue.

Official site of the Lounges, including some details on the Lounge - www.thelounges.co.uk

Official site of the Lounges, including some details on the Lounge - www.thelounges.co.uk