Eat & Drink
Originally published on Friday, 7th December 2007
Waterloo Brasserie
This newly-opened brasserie, slap-bang opposite the Old Vic, couldn't really be more different from its Cheyne Walk sibling.
Gone are the gentle muted hues, replaced by a racy black and orange interior (thanks to an obviously rather hot-blooded Spanish designer), and, as its location dictates, there are less blondes with blow-drys and more power-lunchers from theatreland and the entertainment industry dining there. When I had lunch there I overheard two suits discussing plans to start a string of Ronnie Scotts to rival the Hard Rock - you heard it here first!
The only real likeness is in the menu, although that has been jazzed up somewhat too. Though fundamentally brasserie-ish, there are a few interesting twists, like pumpkin crumble with roasted pancetta, but the real allure lies in the classics like onion soup, cassoulet and croque monsieur, as well as a very appealing-sounding breakfast men, and the fact that you can eat there at pretty much any time you please.
Not a bad excuse to go to the theatre more regularly.
Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-11pm
Place: 119 Waterloo Road, SE1 8UL
Cost: £30
Web: waterloobrasserie.co.uk
Book: 020 7960 0202