Petro Lotz tries the gastropub grub and artisanal brews at the vibey Bridge Street Brewery in South End, Port Elizabeth.

The food

This eatery raises the bar of pub fare by a good few notches. Chips are more like golden chunks of patatas bravas, the springbok carpaccio and brie pizza are wonderful and, if you’re here more for the excellent brews, they have a good selection of hot and cold tapas to keep the stomach lined.

The portions are massive and there’s no skimping on ingredients. The roast vegetable and halloumi salad with pumpkin seeds, for instance, sports three ample slabs of the grilled cheese on top of a mound of roasted peppers and other veggies. In keeping with the raison d’être of the brewery, it is good to see that they’ve carried the theme through to their menu, with beer and stout batters used in some of the dishes. Kiddies’ options are a welcome addition for parents needing some time out over weekends.

Bridge Street Brewery food. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

The wine

Although the menu sports a small but diverse selection of wines at reasonable prices, the main focus is on artisanal beers, stouts, bitters and ciders. Look out for the weekly brew, as well as for the organic cider when in it’s stock.

The service

Service is laid-back and friendly during the day, but busy and energetic at night when the crowds descend. The kitchen is fast and efficient, and staff members are clearly well trained about the menu.

The ambience

The venue has an almost workmanlike atmosphere and is slightly industrial and masculine, thanks to rustic and eclectic furniture, brick retaining walls separating the restaurant area from the river bank, and a sail-like awning in the outside area. Elements of cement and dark woods in the interior add to this feel, but unexpected crystal chandeliers add a softer touch. The restaurant is scrupulously clean; what a pleasure it is to see the condiment bottles neatly aligned on a sideboard, shiny-clean and ready to be delivered to the tables.

Bridge Street Brewery bar. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

And…

A small space adjacent to the outdoor area can be booked for private functions. Guests can still enjoy the venue’s atmosphere, but in a separate space with couches and cute little terracotta fire ovens.

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