14–32 High Street,
Croydon,
CR0 1YA
(020) 8603 0870
The ViewLondon Review
A Lloyds bar with some stiff competition from nearby Tiger Tiger, Milan Bar mixes up good prices with a pub or club appeal, depending on what time you head over.
The Venue
Milan Bar could have suffered for its location by some of Croydon’s best known party bars but, instead, it seems to be flourishing. Although at night the downstairs dance area becomes rammed with OTT, rowdy partygoers, in the day it’s actually a rather nice pub for a cheap, decent pint. Its frontage is simple with a basic black sign and large windows, and inside they’ve done some good things with a huge bar, swathes of dark wood and comfortable soft red armchairs. There’s even a funky fireplace feature in the centre of the room. It certainly has a cosy appeal although the slightly-sticky tables and bright menus remind you this is a Lloyds Bar.
The Atmosphere
In the day, Milan Bar is far quieter with local workers and the typical ‘old man’ beer drinkers settling in for a well-priced pint. In the evening – particularly at weekends – the party mood notches up several gears and the bar pitches itself more at the level of nearby Tiger Tiger. It is a little schizophrenic perhaps, but many bars in this party stretch are similar and it works the two sides of its personality to its advantage.
The Drink
This is where Milan Bar earns its stars. Although in the evenings the drink promotions really come into play and WKD and Smirnoff Ice are the order of the day, this is a pub that’s Cask Marque Accredited and takes its beer seriously – much to its credit. They have an excellent selection of draught beers. The ale changes regularly but includes options like Ship Shape, Ruddle’s Best and Nutcracker at incredibly good prices (less that £2 a pint? That can’t be right, can it?). Of course, the usual lagers make an appearance, too, probably more for the lads out on the lash later on in the evening.
The Last Word
Once again the Wetherspoons/Lloyds brand keeps its beer options top of the agenda with an excellent selection at good prices. And if you want to really let your hair down and experience Croydon’s nightlife after, this is as good a place as any to do so.
Milan Bar has been reviewed by 1 users