Waterloo Brasserie
119 Waterloo Road, Waterloo, SE1 8UL , London
Privacy is something that us Englanders love ? we're never happier than when we're in our own little domain, discussing matters that aren't anyone else's bloody business. If you find yourself wanting to keep some secrets, toddle over to the Waterloo Brasserie and book a private booth to furtively plan away.
It's a fine old gaff, make no mistake ? a striking all red and black interior with barely a crack of light penetrating the thick curtains surprisingly doesn't look like a fifteen year old's bedroom, and the drinks selection is intelligent, original and expensive, the staff who are mostly of eastern European origin are professional, attentive and quick of the mark.
The food is expertly-done French for the most part ? some plebeian snacks bulk out the menu. Bloody-toothed traders, fresh from nearby Waterloo Station, tend to shoot you looks of hatred across the bar, but it all adds to the truly edgy aesthetic that the Brasserie creates. The fact that from the outside the place looks like a low-rent Italian pasta-house adds to the surprise and wonderment on entry. Forget the perpetually-rammed Fire Station opposite ? the Waterloo Brasserie is a far more refreshing choice.