The Fire Station
Continuing on my Waterloo Station wanderings, I’ve stopped into The Fire Station many times over the years, not really paying attention to it as a pub, but more as a convenient and central spot to sit down and catch up with friends, that isn’t in the station, and isn’t a Pret or other chain coffee shop. Technically, it calls itself a “Bar & Restaurant” but I think it is gastropub-like, and decided after my fourth visit it was worthy of an entry, so here it goes. The Fire Station is easy to spot right next door to Waterloo Station, as it almost always has people standing or sitting outside in the outdoor seating area of there is even a hint of sun. But don’t let the crowd outdoors fool you - there is a ton of space inside, albeit you’d probably need to hang around for 20-30 minutes in order to snag any seating space. Overall, it’s a good place to stop in convenient to the station, and guaranteed to have at least a few people having drinks regardless of the day of the week.
Try this beer: Pedigree Amber Ale. I’ve self proclaimed that I’m not a huge British Ale fan, however we are limited in the number of crafty beers available in London pubs, so I’m branching out into the ales… it’s not bad. Flatter and warmer than my preferred lagers and pilsners, but it’s tasty, and as long as you can drink it at a fairly swift pace, I could definitely have a pint of it. But would max out at 2.
The Beer. One of the great things about this pub is that it has a wide selection of beers. Don’t be fooled by the small selection of draughts that are at the front of the bar - the wider beer selection sits at the back of the bar against the wall - there are 20 options to choose from against the back wall. Not all are craft beers, but having such a wide selection at hand is always handy! As per usual, my go-to is Camden Hells, which they always have on draught. They also have Camden Pale - if you like Camden brewed beers, then give this a try - it’s a sweeter, hoppier Pale, but not as strong as an IPA. They’ve got a wide variety of lagers - Moretti, Estrella, Amstel. They’ve got some of the more popular Beavertown beers, including Neck Oil and Gamma Ray.
The Ambiance. The Fire Station is a sociable pub, always a healthy crowd. Not really a date place (although I do recall on one occasion during the London Christmas Party season where there were two work colleagues snogging the faces off each other for about 2 hours in a well-lit corner by the window…). Generally, I would avoid this one for a date - it’s crowded, it’s noisy, the tables are meant for groups, not 1-2 people, and it’s pretty brightly lit. Typically full of after-work suits during the week, this is definitely a regular stop-in for people who are working in the South Bank or city to gather with friends for a few pints before making their way home via Waterloo Station. Definitely a place to catch up with a group of friends. There’s also a large amount of space for those wanting to eat dinner, so it’s pretty easy to walk in and grab a table to eat.
The Food. Despite having been to the Fire Station many times, it was only recently when I’ve eaten food here. I was pleasantly surprised in the food options and the quality of the food. They’ve got a whole host of interesting tacos as starters, and a variety of burgers for meat and non-meat lovers. There are two tacos in a starter, but they are stuffed full of meat and fillings, so if you order them as a starter - beware that they could actually work as a main! I had the chicken tacos, and they were delicious: a lot of grilled chicken, with fresh pico de gallo salsa, some cheese, and a liberal amount of guacamole (spread). I paired the starter with halloumi fries, and it was a great meal, although I struggled to finish both dishes. My friend got the Bhaji Burger and sweet potato fries. She removed the bun, but the burger itself was delicious and tasty, and couldn’t complain about the sweet potato fries. I would definitely stop in to eat here again.
Any extras. There aren’t any extras here, really. I know that they will reserve the back for private parties, but nothing else to mention here.
And the wrap up. The Fire Station is an easy spot for a quick drink before going separate ways - whether your leaving the M25 or simply going to opposite ends of London. It’s a convenient spot for city workers as well, and a lively place for after work drinks between 5 & 8 PM. Alternatively, for those coming into London for an evening out, it could also be a good option for a pre-night out meal that is reasonably priced and substantially filling to line your stomach.
Average price per pint: £5.20
