The Crackberry Times » South Bank

Cubana

crackberry — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:04:58 +0000

Castro may be gone, but the revolution lives on at this cocktail bar in Waterloo. Che Guevara posters and a variety of red star paraphernalia could make you feel like you’re in an obnoxious student digs, but luckily this place is actually as easy going as you’d expect from a Caribbean hang out. Early happy hours make this the perfect place to start a multi stop date along the South Bank, but if you prefer just kick back with some mates and enjoy the best of sunshine communism: cocktail jugs.

48 Lower Marsh, Waterloo, SE1 7RG. Tel: 020 7928 8778. Web: www.cubana.co.uk

The Archduke

crackberry — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:24:27 +0000

Ever wished you could drink to the sound of trains racing along the tracks above you? No me neither, but if you’re looking for somewhere quintessentially quirky then head to The Archduke, as this bar houses itself beneath converted railway arches. Truth be told, the train noise is negligible: the vibrant vocals from the live band and cacophony of late night chatter permeates to the extent that you could almost confuse the railway rumbles with your stomach churning. With its colonial style wicker furniture, rich foliage, and ornate ceiling fans, there’s an Italian Trattoria feel about the place, but head to the bomb-shelter esque ‘reserved area’ and the curved brick walled ceilings cave in and transport you to wartime London. Perfect for drinks with friends, even better for a clandestine rendez-vous (no one would ever find you in between all the greenery), this place takes train spotting to a new level.

Concert Hall Approach, South Bank, SE1 8XU Tel: 020 7928 9370

Oxo Tower

crackberry — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 13:23:18 +0000

Imagine dining al fresco on the eighth floor of one of London’s most iconic buildings, with the river flowing beneath you and the skyline dazzling ahead of you…this is not just any restaurant this is the Oxo Tower Restaurant. Be credit crunch savvy and opt for the brasserie arm where you’re still privy to the breathtaking backdrop and amorous ambiance, but avoid the sky high prices… With an open kitchen and space age metallic tables, there’s a slight school canteen edge to the place but this is offset by the indulgent wine list and discrete dexterity of the waiters in keeping your wine glass permanently topped up. Finish off the night with a cocktail under the stars on the New York style rooftop terrace (they even provide blankets so your girlfriend won’t whinge about the cold) and let the jumpin’ jazz music strike all the right chords…

Price: c£30pp (Lunch- 2 courses for £21.50) Oxo Tower Wharf, Barge House Street, South Bank, SE1 9PH. Tel: 020 7803 3888