The Bootlegger, Bristol

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Blackthorn _ left this review about The Bootlegger

A recent opening just down from the arches, this is a long and narrow bar with a consequently small street frontage, although it does make the most of the narrow opening with bi-folding doors and a couple of tables and chairs out on the pavement.

The front half of the bar contains the bar counter on the left and a few small tables opposite along with a couple of leather sofa’s in the window. The paintwork here is grey whilst the floor throughout is wood laminate. At the rear it opens out a little with the walling being exposed brick work on the right with the remnants of some old slatted wood still in place whilst the left hand wall is clad in rough old boards. A piano is on one side and there are few more tables along the wall which appear to fold down to make more space when required – a neat idea. At the back is a small, semi-open kitchen and a few speakers on stands suggesting that bands feature on occasions. I believe this is predominantly of the blues and jazz variety, and the friendly barman told us about a swing band that were playing later on the evening that we visited. We didn’t eat on this occasion, but a quick glance at the menu suggested that the food offering was of the snack variety with options such as nachos, ribs, burgers, wings, etc.

Beers on tap were Southville Hop, Beat Box and their own Bootlegger Pale Ale, although these were all keg rather than cask. The cider was Thatcher’s Gold. Drinks seemed a little expensive with a pint of the cider and a G&T costing over a tenner. Overall I quite liked this venue, although it may not be “pubby” enough for some. I thought it had a relaxed chilled out vibe, and I will no doubt return to sample the food and/or music.

On 30^th May 2014 - rating: 7
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