Having conquered the world of real ale, Bath Ales decision to muscle into to the American style craft beer market with the Beerd range a few years back was undoubtedly a smart move. The brand’s namesake venue on St Michael’s Hill, close to the BRI and Bristol University, has also impressed since opening its doors.
The bar itself is surprisingly roomy, offering décor and furnishings that makes the space feel like a fusion of an American style diner, Hackney hipster hang-out and a traditional British pub. It certainly fits with the venue’s “craft beer and pizza” approach, and makes it a friendly place to both eat and drink.
The pizzas themselves are amongst the best you’ll find in Bristol, with fresh ingredients and tasty twists on familiar staples. For those who feel a little more adventurous, try the weekly specials (one recent invention was a “Sunday roast” pizza, complete with roast beef, horseradish and chopped up potatoes).
Best of all, though, is the beer offering, which offers the entire Beerd range plus an impressive selection of guest beers. While these tend towards the American and Australian in style, you’ll always find a few acclaimed British cask ales, including Thornbridge’s award-winning Jaipur.