Batida, Clifton, Bristol

One of many bars in this section of Whiteladies Road, it actually describes itself as a bar and restaurant which gives you some idea where it’s emphasis lies and on our Sunday afternoon visit, virtually all tables were taken up with diners, although that may of course depend on when you visit. The pub is split over two levels, and whilst the seating at the front of the upper level gives good views over the street outside, the downstairs bar has much more atmosphere. It has fairly low ceilings, and is actually quite cosy in a contemporary sort of way with a wood strip floor and pale green paintwork. A grandfather clock was near the entrance and a couple of smaller clocks dotted around elsewhere as well as some gilded mirrors and a bookcase. There were a few bar stools for punters who were only drinking and the staff all seemed friendly and cheerful. We didn’t eat on this occasion, although have done so previously and found it to be pretty decent, if a little on the expensive side. The bar menu chalked up on a board next to the bar offered a selection of snacks for £6 including Stornaway black pudding and poached egg, roast beef on dripping toast or air dried ham. There did not appear to be any real ales available unfortunately. That is to say, there were no pumps visible on the bar, although a chalk board did list Butcombe by the half and the pint. Then again, when another punter enquired what real ales were available, they were directed only to the bottled selection which included Bath’s Gem and something from the local micro Wiper & True. The chalk board incidentally did include Hot Buttered Cider or a Mince Pie Martini if that’s more your thing. Ciders fared a little better with Thatcher’s Gold being available on tap. Overall I thought this was a decent enough place, but it’s not a pub in the conventional sense and I’d only be likely to return if I were planning on eating.