Pubs and bars in or around train stations are, generally speaking, a bit weird. I am not confident…read moreof the explanation as to why this is, but if I had to hazard a guess, I would look no further than the clientele they attract. There are usually a contingent of nervous passengers who are frightened of missing their train, and so continuously check various timepieces. Suited business types linger around, checking electronic diaries for details, and men of a certain age flock to these venues with their reasonable prices and comfortable seats.
The Brewery Tap has managed to buck the trend. As one of three Leeds Brewery supported pubs, there are an impressive range of ales on show. The customary Leeds Best, Leeds Pale and Midnight Bell ales sit proudly on the bar, their dominance providing a welcome example of regional identity for visitors and residents alike. A couple of expertly sourced ciders also adorn the bar, namely West Croft's Janet's Jungle Juice and Broadoak's Premium Perry. Both originating from Somerset, these ciders are CAMRA awarded, and I personally wish to award them too. I may fashion a trophy out of tin foil, depending on how many premium strength ciders I have consumed.
The most impressive aspect of The Brewery Tap, is that they brew their own tipple in a microbrewery in the pub. It is visible for punters to enjoy a close up, when journeying up to the toilets. Just to clarify, a glass wall does seal the pumping equipment from the general public - there could be no unfortunate accidents regarding the location of the toilets.
I have only ever indulged in the bar snacks on offer at this pub, but the sticky chicken skewers I ordered were delightfully succulent. I have jealously envied other people's food at The Brewery Tap however, practically being floated through the air with my nostrils directing me on the visible aroma, similar to a cartoon. The menu boasts a wonderful selection of pies, fish and chips, burgers and other such classics; as well as some sharing platters, ideal for sociable grazing.
The Brewery Tap hosts a quiz night every Monday evening, a pleasurable distraction to the beginning of the week. The bar shows major sporting events on a pull-down projector screen, which is generally a civilised affair with a section cordoned off to allow other customers to retain a peaceful atmosphere.
The Brewery Tap is a brilliant venue to enjoy a drink or some food, whether you are catching a train or not. Any bar that provides me with interesting Oscar Wilde, Chuck Kilman and Albert Einstein quotes to read in the bathroom, is outstanding in my eyes.