Illuminati, Bristol

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Blackthorn _ left this review about Java

A prominent building adjacent to the City Hall, this was for many years something of a Bristol institution known as The Mauretania. This in turn was named after the famous ocean liner, and there is much wood panelling from the ship still in evidence here which makes a pleasant change from many so called “renovations” which seem intent on stripping out anything of historical interest. First impressions though are perhaps something more akin to an upmarket cub, with red rope fencing off the entrance walkway and elaborate garlands all around the doorway.

Internally it’s a little more traditional as mentioned with the dark wood panelling covering much of the walls, although the illuminated bar counter and prominent Pravha branding jarred with this somewhat. Flooring was some type of wood strip, whilst the seating was padded chairs and dark wooden tables. A few large mirrors were inset in to the wood panelling, many etched with the pub’s name. A further room at the rear was very elegant with more dark wood panelling on the walls, sympathetic lighting and oversized leather arm chairs. Another room off to the right was in darkness, although I did spot a cake display counter in there, reflecting the fact that they also operate as a café during the day.

There were no real ales on tap unfortunately, just Sharp’s Atlantic on keg. The solitary cider meanwhile was Aspall’s. Cocktails and spirits are really more the focus here though, and my Peto’s Bramble with Tanqueray gin, raspberry liqueur, lemon juice, gomme and blackberry jam was pretty good, although for £12.80 you could well argue that it should be.

On 24^th June 2021 - rating: 6
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