We went a'guzzlin' down Beeston...
This little gem has recently set up shop in Beeston, in a prime location, as buses and trams go past every few minutes. Having only being around for two to three months, this micropub has made a noteworthy mark on Nottingham’s map of watering holes. The atmosphere is charming, the people are friendly, and the charismatic and upbeat barman was delightfully welcoming.
While it’s small – the floor space is probably equivalent to an average front room – do not let it fool you. There’s a great range of beverages to be had. There are a dozen beers – seven on keg and five cask ales – and, to my glee, the addition of three or four interesting ciders. To the side of the bar is a wall of shelves brimming with bottles, and beside this is a fridge of intriguing cans.
To help me with this review, I brought my wise mentor of beer (my dad) with me. Upon entering, we commented on the simple and homely decor. The blue carpet and walls were brightened by large windows, and most of the seating ran along the edge of the walls to maximise space. Additionally, extra seating took the form of old casks. Aside from the two gothic-esque images that are painted onto mirrors, the interior’s not overly quirky.
The atmosphere on a Sunday afternoon was incredibly relaxed. What made it better was the crowd and the intimacy of the room. To my left sat a lady knitting as she nursed a cider, and on my right was another reading with a dog at her feet. The barman was on top form; constantly chatting to others at the bar, but also left me to quietly peruse the blackboard and bottles in awe. The seat-to-drink choice ratio was possibly higher than any other pub in Nottinghamshire.
We started off drinking Hopcraft’s Permanent Revolution (3.8%, £3.20) which was a hoppy, sharp and refreshing red IPA. Then we changed course to Bluebee’s Chinook Red (4.7%, £3.20) which in contrast had a deeper, richer and smoother taste. Then, we had to try Totally Brewed’s Captain Hopbeard IPA (5.5%, £3.40), with a classically sharp and rich flavour that lingered.
Merrily, I then moved onto ciders. First was Magpie (6.5%, £3.80) which was my favourite kind of cider: dry and smooth. However the sweetness of the Thirsty Farmer (5.5%, £3.80) was not disappointing at all. As we stumbled home, it was good to know that we had not cleared half the board.
In all, Totally Tapped is a total must. Mary Dansie
23 Chilwell Rd, Beeston NG9 1EH.
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