Wanstead Tap, E7

Housed in a railway arch, this quirky and characterful bar combines the utilitarian stylings of industrial design with a warm, inviting ambiance. The space has a concrete screed floor, corrugated metal walls, and a vaulted ceiling, softened by thoughtful muted lighting. Seating is mixed, with upturned oil drums and high stools to the front (visually interesting but arse-breaking and knee-knockingly impractical), rows of metal tables and chairs down the centre, and a line of plush sofas along the left-hand wall beneath a drinking ledge. The bar is opposite, with a faux-brick counter and fairy light-draped bar back; taps are mounted to one side. The rear features a stage for live performances, with framed photos of past events along the left-hand wall. A large screen on the back wall showed Six Nations rugby with full commentary, contributing to a sociable feel that was by no means reliant on everyone watching the live sport. The landlord was hands-on and full of good cheer and a good crowd were getting stuck into pizza which can be ordered in from a nearby pizza house. No cask ale was available, which the landlord explained was due to the venue’s limited opening hours which make it impossible to maintain good quality, but five carefully curated craft keg options were on, apparently chosen for rarity or local appeal. I tried Franklin’s Porter, as recommended by the landlord—full of chocolate and coffee notes, it was a good call. The service was engaging and the whole place had a relaxed, community-oriented buzz that made me wonder why they didn't bother opening the place up more frequently. I had tried to visit this place once before, but fell foul of their limited opening hours and have waited a while to finally get back out here again, but I'm pleased that I made the effort. It's a good example of a micropub, set in the sort of place usually reserved for micro breweries, and the lively atmosphere within and hearty welcome from the affable landlord made it somewhere that I could easily imagine spending plenty of time in if I lived nearby. The lack of cask was also not too much of an issue, given the efforts to ensure a solid keg selection and I'd happily call back again if they happened to be open the next time I'm in town. Date of visit: 8th February 2025

Something different and as the last reviews states, you've got to want to come. You're not likely to pass it my accident. Unless you are researching filming locations from the Sweeney. I came on an afternoon and was the only punter but it looks exactly my sort of place. A series of chesterfield sofas and round tables, setup like a working class jazz speakseasy. Individual lighting provided by tea lights in jug handled pint pots. All seating looking at a stage and they have regular live music, hootenanny once a month, poetry readings and film nights. Lots of cans on sale and several kegs - not immediately obvious what is hosted. I went for what was labelled "Northern Monk IPA 6.2%" and from using the ABV and Untappd worked out it was probably New World. It was lovely and not bad at £5.50. Would love to come back on an evening when there is entertainment.